Length: 6'6"–7'6", 4-piece is a good balance
Power: Light to Medium-heavy (pick to match your trip)
Action: Moderate-fast
Line range: Matches the chosen power
Lure range: Matches the chosen power
Best reel: Whatever suits the target — match to the trip
Best environment: Anywhere you can't bring a full rod
Best species: Depends on power — from trout to inshore slot fish