Versatile Heavy Rod vs Specialists

[Firstoutfisher]

So my rod collection is really starting to come together. Although I am lacking when it comes to heavier equipment. I do have a daiwa airdx with a lews super duty that I use specifically for frogging and frogging only. Other than that its just various versatile MH setups. I want to start dabbling in throwing larger swimbaits/crankbaits/topwaters etc. I also want to start dabbling in flipping/pitching/punching. Would I be better served getting two different setups specific to each technique, or is it possible to get a versatile heavy/xh that can perform all of these tasks? Obviously If I go for something more versatile I won't be able to throw the huge swimbaits, but maybe some of the baits up to 3oz or so?

I just have a hard time investing money into any setup that is technique specific before I know if I am going to use it a lot or if I will enjoy it. Which is why I usually lean towards more versatile setups.

[Finnz922]

My opinion (everyone has one). Your punching rods and swimbait (depending on size) should be a specialist. Other than that most MH to H rods are capable of the same things.

[GOOD YEAR 71]

Many sticks lend versatility, but truth is if you want to find success, you need to give yourself the best chance to succeed. This means equipment up to task. But can you find success otherwise? Using just one all-purpose stick to account for all-purpose use? Yes. But you would be limiting your odds in doing so, if not setting yourself up for failure. It’s not reasonable to wonder if you might enjoy any technique if you intentionally limit your ability to enjoy said technique. It’s sort of like going for a walk wearing one shoe. Can it be done? Yes. But you probably won’t like it.

[TNBankFishing]

I would suggest two rods, a jig and big bait.

For example if you’re a Megabass fan you could pick up a perfect pitch and leviathan in the levante or orochi lines.

While you could get away with a general purpose heavy, you might be unhappy with the result.

[hmnginmn]

If you can find a used Megabass Black Jungle Power Versatile that might be the rod you're looking for. The handle is a little shorter for true swimbait fishing though. I got it extended so the handle length is at 13 inches and balaces much better.

I throw everything from 3/8oz+ flipping jigs, 1/2oz+ footballs, 3/8oz Chatters (amazing rod for it if you can handle the weight of the rod), punching with 1oz weight, frogs, deeper cranks if I have to all the way up to 4oz topwaters and glidebaits.

It's my favorite rod and it stays in the car with me in those moment I decide to shore fish.