Basic equipment question.

[MississippiBoy]

Hi everybody...first time poster, but I have been lurking for a while, learning much from the old hands...zooker, reb, etc...

My question is, in general, what length/weight/action rod is best for all-around bass fishing? I'll be throwing everything, pretty much-plastics, spinners, topwater, cranks- and in all kinds of situations-lily pads, tree stumps, deep open water-but I don't have the $$$ for a specific rod and reel for each type of lure or water situation. That also means that I don't have the $$$ for a $700 rod, so keep it cheap, please. I use an old Abu Garcia baitcasting reel, not sure what specific model.

Thanks, guys (gals?). Any advice or helpful links would be greatly appreciated.