I would sugest a medium action 6'6" rod. this will fit all your needs for now. You might wqant to check out the St Croix JOJO Bass plastics rod for around $100 they are good rods. Until you get specialized in your presintation a meadum action rod is all you need.

Harry

check out arcadia sports i think there rods are super and they are cheaper than simular rods of the same quality. plus you can get 2 for the price of one. i find they preform as well if not better than my higher priced rods. this way you can try 2 different sizes also and see which one works better for you.

I'd go with duckmans suggestion, I have a few of the Acadia rods and find they are good one's

I also have a number of Acadia Sports rods and for the most part have been pleased with them. I would suggest a 7' medium and a 6'6" medium heavy for all around use. I would advise against goint too inexpensive on the reel- about $100 is about the lowest you can go for a decent reel to learn on. Once you have educated your thumb you will be able to use a less expensive reel but be aware that things like drag and smoothness tend to deteriorate as the price drops! This is not much of an issue fishing for smaller fish but if you are dealing with large bass or esox (muskie/pike) a poor drag will become a problem very quickly! Tom

Thanks alot for the help. I spoke with some local anglers and they also suggest on going with a medium heavy or medium.