She is not a fisher-woman really, just a casual. When she goes, she typically targets panfish and bass (she enjoys catfishing too but we have different poles for that). Recently I broke her little Zebco slingshot, and I'm looking to replace it. I think I'm staying with the Zebco spincast style reel (easy to use), I thinking the 33 platinum. I'd like it to be light duty enough to throw the light weight panfish lures, but able to handle a decent size Bass as well, if that is possible.

But what kind of rod should I get for this type of fishing? There are two combos available:
- one comes with a 5.5 foot rod, fiberglass, Moderate Action, Medium power, 6-12 pound line, 1/8-1/2 lure weight.
- option two comes with a 6 foot graphite rod, moderate fast action, Medium power, 6-14 pound line, 1/8-3/4 lure weight.
- Amazon link to the two combos

The graphite combo SEEMS to be the better option as it allows for a wider variety of line and lure sizes, but is some of that just marketing smoke?

Or I could buy the rod and reel separately and choose a medium light power or something if that is best. My understanding is that a slower action is better for small baits (seems counter intuitive), and a lighter power is best for detecting small species bites. Correct me please if that is incorrect. Please advise me what specs to look for, as I am WAY overthinking/over-analyzing this.

Agree , the 6 foot graphite rod option is more versatile and will be more fun to fish with.

Spare the Rod, Spoil the Wife. Oh, sorry. that just came out. No sexist intent was involved. IslandJim