There have been other threads, since I have contributed, but not on that thread. It is hard to make recommendations without more info, but if I wasn't fly fishing, and was going to fish just about anywhere, i would take an ultralight spinning rod. Spool 2 or 4 pound line. First it is light to carry the rod and in particular the lures. Second, it gives the greatest chance of getting a strike, though many fish prefer larger baits, you can with guile fish a range with light gear. Third, on a random fishing assignment, close to roads, you want to use something subtle and a little different than what the fish may have been presented with in the past. You would be surprised how large a fish can be landed on 4 lb test. Many rods, like most fly rods, can't work more than a few pounds. Try breaking anything heavier with a full bend in the rod. The world tarpon record for 4 lb is over 125lbs, for instance, though obviously they had a boat, but still. Just learn to put the butt to them, and learn to work the full line capacity, and you won't be diddling around. However, there are assignments that could be a useless set-up for.