My biggest thing would be to spend money on quality bates that are known to catch fish. 1 to 5 quality baits are much better than 20 cheap baits.
Try to cover all depths. Get baits that cover everything from 20 feet deep to surface baits.
I use this rod for all my small hudds (6 inch, 68specials). I have also casted some bigger baits on it. I think it is best suited for baits under 3 ox but is capable to throw bigger.