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.