Can't go wrong with the setup I use most of the time. 9FT 6 inch Powell for 8/9 weight with a reel of your choice, I use a Lamson. Then get the Rio versitip system on you are good to go !!! I used to go with extra spools etc but thats a hassel on the river. A lot of people like the fast action rods, IMX Loomis or Sage RPL's and I have one of each. I have found however that the older IM6 type rods throw sink tips a lot better than the fast rods. 8/9 can handle every fish you mentioned and you can still cast it all day.

Beware... you will eventually catch one on the bug rod which will lead to an infatuation bordering on insanity... be carefull