I use casting reels on several rods for Crappie but I don't cast with them. I use them for flipping, strolling and vertical jigging, Almost all of mine have flipping switches on them but they are not absolutely necessary. Most of them are in the 10-11 foot range but I have a Pro Angler 8 foot and an old All Star 7 foot that work real well. For Crappie I seldom cast but when I do I use spinning reels. I have dedicated heavier rods for other species. I like the casting reels just because I am familiar with them from years of bass fishing. Watch a couple of videos of Todd Huckabee in action and you will see how I use mine.