I've got a 1 - 10g rod now. subdues fish to 2 1/2lb with the right drag setting and care without undue stress.
try firing a 0.5g and it's not a problem. casting isn't the issue. I can cast a SSG on my supermix 270.
However:
Try to detect a bite on the mix270 with an SSG at 1.6 g and it's quite simply, a no go.
People need to stop confusing jig weight and ratio with casting weight and feel.
If we are fishing for stuff like we are now, averaging 1.5lb then a 1 -5 g rod with a 1" lure is perfect.
Hook the occasional big fish, so what, just play it out.
Start seeing the stamp go up, gear increases proportionally to that.
Its a balancing act because a 5lb Pollack still might want a 1.5" lure on a 2g head.
Move up to the Injection powered rods and yes, the better rods will show a fair percentage of the takes.
Cheaper rods might not, nor in fact, protect the lighter braids or lines against sudden bursts.
We are nailing fish here on stuff that most people a few months ago would have baulked at.
Most of those people are basing their replies upon perceived wisdom. We are basing it on actual fact.
My next LRF rod will be solid tipped, 0.5 - 5g, armed with 0.4 PE braid and 6lb leader spooled on what I hope will be the new Shimano Rarenium 2500.
We are getting some dinky little lures guys. One of them only 1.2 gram. smaller than an SSG shot. Bib an all. Can't wait.
Of course...
Someone not used to light rods, light line and playing fish should choose something maybe 5 -25g HRF and 3 - 12 for their first LRF. Arm that with PE #1.5 and #1 respectively.
That is still way thin and light compared to most people's perception of gear. Saying this...
Me and Kev are seriously considering a high quality PE 0.8 for our general Bass plugging this season. They can still clock in at 10 - 12lb.
Who needs more, it's not like 10lb fish are exactly common place is it. Average size of fish is what ? 3lb if you are lucky.
Anyone really seriously considering parting with green folding stuff should just book a flight and come here. Try some stuff, get some experience. Learn some tricks and then go home armed with a damn sight more idea than any reading and perceived wisdom will ever give you.
Come on guys, the fish are here waiting to bend your arm.