Like which rod is the one for spinnerbaits? Top water? Some I know but I want to make the most of my new investment.

Rod 1: Crucial 7' MHF

Jigs, senko, creatures, texas, carolina rigs, frogs, fluke?

Rod 2: Compre Crankbait 7" MMF

Crankbaits, poppers?, Buzzbaits?, Spinnerbaits?

Rod 3" Cheap graphite spinning setup 6'6" M

Roboworms, nightcrawlers for trout, topwater?, ???

Thanks for any help for an over anxious beginner that's been hooked.

Welcome! Based on your outlined specs, I'd say the second rod. The first one could do alright I suppose too.

I think your second rod would be alright for your treble hook lures, including topwater.

looks good. i'd try spinnerbaits and buzzbaits on your MH/fast. some people like moderate fast...

rod 2 sounds like a perfect all around shallow/medium depth crankbait rod.

rod 3 might be a good rod for jerkbaits, skipping plastics or you could use it to toss a plastic after a bass that missed your moving bait.

keep in mind ive never fished those shimanos, my advice comes from the power and actions of the rods.

if you bought a 4th rod at some time and you like spinning rods, id get a medium light , f or xf for light jigs, light t-rigs, weightless plastic, tubes, grubs and "finesse" presentations.

Here ya go:

Maybe this will help:

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1141187546

Specifically:

Technique specific rods are for "enthusiasts".

Almost all your fishing can be done with just

one rod. Beyond that, you only "need" three rods:

Spinning: 6 1/2' or 7', M or MH, Fast Action

(soft plastics and light lures)

Baitcasting: MH or H, Fast Action

(jigs, spinnerbaits, buzzbaits and all single hooks)

Baitcasting: MH, Moderate Action

(all treble hook lures)

Thanks all. That was a helpfull link. So if I've got this right:

Rod one will be for single hook.

Rod two for all treble hooks. (except big or deep diving)

Rod three for single hook tackle too light for rod one like fluke, weightless senko, other small plastics.

I'll admit it felt awkward throwing a weightless senko and fluke on the 7' MHF with 15lb line. Could only get it out 20 feet or so.

sounds like a plan to me.

senkos are pretty heavy. are you throwing the 3"?

In hindsight the fluke was the one I was really having trouble getting out there. Not afraid to admit I'm still getting used to these baitcasters too. That and these heaver rods don't load up like the spinning gear I've always used.

Back at the lake next weekend and hopefully the water will have warmed up a bit. Will report back so you can see the fruits of your internet opines.  ;D

I'll admit it felt awkward throwing a weightless senko and fluke on the 7' MHF with 15lb line.

A little lighter line might help with weightless, what line are you using?

15lb yo-zuri green line. I'm thinking 12 might be better but I'm sure the biggest improvement will come simply from more time on the water.

15lb yo-zuri green line. I'm thinking 12 might be better but I'm sure the biggest improvement will come simply from more time on the water.

I would sneak it down, jmo