This may seem a bit elementary but what makes a good jig rod? I realize personal preference plays into this as much as anything but what's a good starting point?

Longer 6'6"+...med heavy-heavy with fast action.  

The Power depends a lot on the size of jig and where you fish them, but Medium Power at least. Action should be Fast or Extra Fast, with a firm tip. I think length is personal preference. My main jig rod is a G.Loomis GLX MBR844C/ Shimano CTE200GT and #12 Yo-Zuri Hybrid Ultra Soft.

Like stated it depends on the weight of the bait.  I use a variety but mostly 843C 1/2 oz and under and 844C 1/2 oz and over.  Either one can handle the 1/2 oz depending on how big the trailer is.

I use a Loomis MBR844C (7' MH fast) for casting and swimming jigs and a Loomis FS905 Flippin stick (7-1/2' broomstick extra heavy extra fast)  for pitching in heavy cover and dense vegetation. I love Jig fishing!  JMHO

Ronnie

BPS Extreme 7' MH! Oh, and it's a spinning rod of course!  

When I'm flippin jigs I use a 7 1/2ft Heavy action BPS Graphite Series rod. If I'm not flippin I'll use a 6ft 10in MH All Star American Classic.

I think I'm falling into the trap of thinking I need a different rod for every application! Sounds like I've got several rods that will fill the bill.......gotta' try and keep that darn bait monkey in the cage