Choosing a Pitching Rod

[Wizard]

Many anglers on UB have been posting on rod sensitivity and what maker produces the best rod. However, there are other factors than sensitivity which you need to consider in selecting a rod.
Purpose: there are two schools of thoughts among professional anglers. Some anglers feel it is best to be rod specific with every rod having a single, distinct purpose. They carry a multitude of rods and lengths in their rod lockers. A second group wants every rod identical. These anglers want every rod to feel and cast the same. The less they think about their rod choice, the more concentration for fishing.
Length: rod lengths vary from 6'9" to 7'HT depending on purpose and ANGLER'S HEIGHT and age.
  Height- an angler's height makes a difference in rod choice. A tall angler may use a rod length of 7'2" or greater. A short angler may use 6'9" to 7'. The average height angler uses 6'10" to 7'2". Before my disc compression, I was 6'1" in height. After compression and surgeries, I am 5'8". The rods I had no longer fit my height and were replaced.
  Age- most anglers start shrinking in height in their in their mid fifties. If the rods you are using don't work as well as previously, you may need new rods. We lose strength in middle age and older. A new rod with a quicker tip may help you regain distance on the pitch.
  Boat- your bass boat's design affects how you pitch. Gunnels, deck height above water, seat placement and boat width all factor into rod choice. My BassCat Puma is designed specifically for anglers who pitch and flip. The gunnels are gone, the deck is large and low and the seat placement is extremely forward on the bow of the boat.
  I'm sure you can think of other factors n selecting a pitching rod. If you purchase from a custom rod builder, they will talk with you about your ideal rod and will factor the important factors I mentioned. Imagine, a pitching rod designed just for you.

Wizard

[Oldfart9999]

I can think of 2 pros that used the same rod/reel outfits for all; Denny Brauer and Rick Clunn, hard to argue with their success.
Rodney

[Hobbes]

I was surprised watching Rick Clunn on the Bass Pros saying he was using a heavy/fast action rod for fishing shallow to med. diving crank baits and spinner baits. Years ago he would use a composite rod with a very soft tip. I still have one of his old Team Diawa rods.