If you're really only using shrimp or Gulp (or DOA shrimp), then I wouldn't worry about having a separate rig.  I've been using all 4000 series stuff with 7'6" MH rods forever.  I think it's the best 'do-everything' combo for the Gulf area: inshore, piers, beach, kayak, nearshore, passes, jettys, wading, etc.  My go-to is an ancient Quantum Boca 40 on a Redbone MH and my son's is a new Quantum Smoke 40 on a Quantum MH rod.  We've caught everything from ladyfish to snook to tarpon to grouper and shark on these.  Cost about $300+ each.  




All our backup rods/reels are cheaper variations of these, but always a 4000 with a 7'6" MH of some kind. That said, in the past couple months I find myself reaching for a setup I got my wife so she had her own gear on our boat.  It's a cheapo shimano 2500 on a cheapo shimano 7' Fast rod, cost me $50 to put together.  I am loving fishing with this thing.  I swear I am casting it better/more accurately and getting more hits off it in strictly inshore (mangroves, potholes, oyster bed) fishing. 



Now my kid and I are looking at putting together combos for the summer with either Stradics or Cabos 2500s with shorter fast rods.  I still like the bigger ones for overall use, but for targeting trout, reds snook inshore I'm becoming a believer in downsizing.  I haven't felt like I've lost fish for using lighter gear.