General advice

Thanks for all the advice guys

I'm going to get laughed at when i suggest this, but I'm so tight I squeak when I walk. I bought the Vortex spincast rod at Gander Mtn. when they were on sale for $15 last winter (sticker said $59 i think). Anyway, I bought 2 - I have Pflueger Presidents on them both and have been very happy with the rod performance. All you'll need for crappie. They're sensitive, seem to be very sturdy, and have enough backbone to swing a 3lb bass in the boat on 6lb mr. crappie high viz w/out a net just this last weekend. For the money, I'm sure you won't find a better rod.. my honest/humble opinion.

I was actually looking at one of their Vortex rods this past summer. Ended up going with a BnM BGJP instead only because the Vorex rods werent on sale anymore when I finally bought and the BnM one was. Seemed like a really nice rod, may pick up one next year.

The sales guy there told me that the Gander reels are actually made by Pflueger, just with a few less bells and whistles. They'd probably sell more of them if they werent priced exactly the same as the Pfluegers!

As far as rods go, you might do yourself a big favor and take a look at the B n' M rod line-up. They specialize in crappie rods and have an excellent reputation. I have 3 of their rods now myself; two are the 7' SHSS model and my latest one is a 9' SHSS. I have Shimano reels on two and a President on the newest long rod. Great rods in my opinion. Reasonable pricing. Wonderful service. The slightly longer 7' model (you were looking for a 6' length) will work well for you I'm sure. :)