If you’re fishing for crappie, it can be tempting to think that you can use just any old rod and reel. These are small fish, after all, the like most other members of the sunfish family. Surely they’d be an easy catch, right?
Well, if you’ve been fishing for crappie a few times, you already know that’s completely wrong. As a matter of fact, Crappie are tricky to catch, and the best crappie rods aren’t heavy.
Heavy powered rods actually work against you when you’re crappie fishing. Because crappie have very soft mouths, it’s easy to pull your hook all the way out when you’re trying to set it. The best fishing rod for crappie is a light or ultralight rod with a fast or light action. This makes it easy to set your hook with a flick of the wrist, so you won’t lose a prize fish just because you were a little aggressive after the bite.
Best Crappie Rods Available
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1. St Croix Premier Spinning Rod
St Croix Premier Spinning Rod
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Features
- PREMIUM SCII GRAPHITE CONSTRUCTION: Perfect for anglers who appreciate high-performance without high cost; Mid-modulus graphite fiber with a higher strain rate than common fibers; Most popular material that is lightweight, durable and sensitive
- PREMIUM-GRADE CORK HANDLE: Ensure you maintain a strong grip on your fishing rod
- MORE FEATURES: Fuji DPS reel seat w/ frosted silver hoods; Kigan Master Hand 3D guides w/, strong aluminum-oxide rings and black frames; Kigan hook-keeper; Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish; Made in USA
- SPECIFICATIONS: Length – 7’; Power – MH; Action – Fast; Pieces – 1; Line Wt. – 8-14 lbs; Lure Wt. – 3/8-3/4 oz; Rod Wt. – 5.0 oz; Handle – 5
- 5-YEAR WARRANTY: Backed by St. Croix Superstar Service
The St Croix Premier Spinning Rod is exceptionally supple and sensitive.
Key Features
- Available in 4.6 to 8.6-foot lengths
- Graphite rod
- Ultralight power
- Fast action
- 1/32-ounce to 3/16-ounce lure size
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 12 ¼” cork spinning handle
- Aluminum oxide guides
St. Croix is quickly becoming a big-time player in the world of premium fishing rods, and their St Croix Premier Spinning Rod is a worthy addition to their top-quality collection. This is a newer rod, but that’s a good thing. It’s a sign of St. Croix’ dedication to continually improving on their own products.
This rod features a fast action, as well as an ultralight graphite shaft. This gives you the sensitivity you need to feel even the most hesitant nibbler, as well as the soft set you need to sink a hook in a crappie’s soft mouth.
The aluminum oxide guides are very smooth, and allow for smooth, easy casting, regardless of what lure size you’re using. The handle is constructed from cork, and provides plenty of cushion for your grip. And the reel is very high quality, with a smooth spinning action that you’re sure to appreciate.
Pros
- Sensitive tip
- Long, easy casting
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Pricey
This rod is fairly pricey, but it’s a fantastic value for the investment.
2. Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning Rods
Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning Rods
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Features
- 【What You Get From Cadence】Cadence fishing poles offer high-performance premium features at an unbeatable value. Fishing with quality, dependable gear should not mean breaking the bank. Cadence has a reliable customer service team and we will solve any problem you have. Customers have a risk-free guarantee when purchasing from us!
- 【Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank】All CR5 1-piece and 2-piece fishing rods are constructed with 30-ton carbon matrix graphite blank offers strongest ,lightweight, durability and sensitivity than other rods. Ideal for game fish including freshwater fish like bass, walleye and trout as well as popular inshore species like red fish, speckled trout and flounder with a rinse after fishing.
- 【Premium Materials】Cadence CR5 spinning rods are made from materials that bring strength and sensitivity without weight. Made of 30 ton carbon, SiC guides with durable stainless steel frames, a comfortable Fuji reel seat and a blank wrapped in carbon veil to enhance the durability. Rods comes in 2 handle configurations; carbon split grip and full grip using a premium cork and EVA, is made to deliver a premium rod at a greater value than the competition.
- 【Super Smooth Power】Stainless steel guides with SiC inserts makes it more smooth and durable, avoids line sticking into the guides, minimizes friction while also enhancing sensitivity by transferring vibrations from the line through the guide to the rod and to your hand.
- 【Travel Friendly】Unique 2 piece design makes it easily and affordable to fit in car, trunk, boat hatch than traditional one piece,but using feel like a one-piece fishing rod ! 2 piece spinning rod allows you to travel to your favorite fishing spot and enjoy fishing whenever and wherever you want.
The Cadence CR5 Spinning Rod provides a secure hook set with a very soft touch.
Key Features
- Available in 5.5 to 7-foot lengths
- Graphite rod
- Ultralight power
- Moderate action
- 1/32-ounce to 1/8-ounce lure size
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 12-inch cork and foam spinning handle
- Stainless steel guides with SiC inserts
The Cadence CR5 Spinning Rod is a well-engineered rod that comes at a very reasonable price. If you’re looking for a crappie rod that won’t break the bank, this is an excellent choice.
This rod combines a medium length with a moderate action, which allows for easy casting and retrieval in small bodies of water like ponds. It also allows you to use very light lines under a lot of stress, which isn’t necessarily required for catching crappie, but is a great added value if a small bass decides to nibble at your line.
The ultralight power is fantastic for catching any small fish, not just a crappie. It offers plenty of flexibility, so you can easily tell when you get a light nibble, and adjust your technique accordingly.
Pros
- Very sensitive
- Very smooth guides
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suited for larger fish
The SiC inserts on these guides allow for exceptionally smooth casting and retrieving.
3. Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spin
Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spin
Features
- Hidden Handle Design reel seat allows function and comfort to co-exis; Extreme comfort; not seen on the market today; Don’t ‘feel the threads’ of traditional reel seats
- Titanium frame guides are extremely lightweight and are virtually bulletproof!
- TAC and cork handle design provides a solid grip even when the handle becomes wet
- Perfected actions designed specifically for light and ultra light applications
The Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spinning Rod is very comfortable to grip.
Key Features
- Available in 5’8” to 8’ lengths
- Graphite rod
- Ultralight power
- Fast action
- 1/32-ounce to 3/16-ounce lure size
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- Split cork spinning handle
- Titanium guides
The Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spinning Rod comes from a long line of quality fishing rods. Fenwick is a renowned name in this business, and one you get your hands on one of their rods, you’ll be singing their praises. This rod is on the pricey side, but you’re getting a great value nonetheless.
This rod has a fast action, which allows for immediate pressure relief if the line is put under too much stress. As a result, it’s perfect for crappie, since it won’t accidentally tear through a crappie’s mouth.
This rod is very smooth casting, and equally smooth on the retrieve. This is a very comfortable rod, with split handles that are constructed from high quality cork. The split handle is perfect for a wide grip, which allows for maximum control, a necessity when you’re fighting such a fragile fish.
Pros
- Comfortable handle
- Extra-smooth casting and retrieving
- Very sensitive tip
Cons
- Expensive
If you want smooth-casting guides, the Fenwick’s titanium frames and inserts are hard to beat.
4. Lew’s Fishing Mr Crappie Slab Daddy 2 Pc Rods
Lew’s Fishing Mr Crappie Slab Daddy 2 Pc Rod
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Features
- Fiberglass 2-piece blanks
- Wally Marshall approved Crappie specific actions
- Stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts
- Mr. Crappie
The Lew’s Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy 2 Piece Rod is exceptionally long, available up to 12 feet in length.
Key Features
- Available in 9-foot to 12-foot lengths
- Fiberglass rod
- Ultralight power
- Light action
- 1/16 to 3/16-ounce lure size
- 4 to 10 pound line weight
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts
- 2-piece design
The Lew’s Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy 2 Piece Rod is a 2-piece rod that’s available in very long lengths. The 12-foot in particular allows for very long casts. It features sturdy stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts that are so smooth you’ll feel like your line is gliding over soft butter. And because it’s so long, we appreciated the fact that you can break it down for travel.
This rod features a comfortable EVA foam handle that will keep your hands from blistering or getting stiff during a long day of fishing. It also features stainless steel hook grippers that are designed to keep your fishing line from getting tangled during the cast.
Pros
- Very long
- Easy to transport
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Not very durable
This fishing pole’s stainless-steel hook grippers help prevent your line from getting tangled.
5. Shakespeare CH9025SPBO Crappie Hunter Spinning Rod
Shakespeare CH9025SPBO Crappie Hunter Spinning Rod
Features
- Fishing rod and spinning reel combo designed for a variety of crappie fishing techniques
- Lightweight graphite construction with aluminum spool and handle
- Pre-spooled with 4-pound fishing line
- Instant anti-reverse lets you reel smoothly without interruption
- Multi-disk drag system for reliable performance
The Shakespeare Crappie Hunter Spinning Rod features an anti-reverse reel, which keeps small fish from pulling out any line.
Key Features
- 9 feet long
- Graphite rod
- Light power
- Fast action
- 1/8-ounce to 1/4-ounce lure size
- 4-pound line weight
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Aluminum guides
- 2-piece construction
The Shakespeare Crappie Hunter Spinning Rod is a great choice if you want to be able to catch a variety of fish species with your crappie rod. Its light power means it’s not quite as sensitive as some dedicated crappie rods, but it’s still more than forgiving enough to get the job done.
This rod measures 9 feet in length and can be separated in two for easy transport. The shaft is constructed from lightweight graphite, and the aluminum spool is very durable. It comes pre-strung with 4-pound fishing line, which is lightweight enough for catching even the tiniest of fish. If you’re a fan of catch and release, this is an excellent option.
Pros
- Sturdy backbone
- Anti-reverse reel
- Easy to transport
Cons
- Not very sensitive
If you want a crappie rod that’s also suited to some heavier fish, give this one a shot.
6. B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralite Crappie Spin Rod
B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralite Crappie Spin Rod
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Features
- 40 Million Modulus IM6 Graphite
- Unique “Double Touch” System
- Genuine Portuguese Cork Handle
- Dyna-Flo Stainless Steel Guides
- Chartreuse Depth-Monitoring Wraps
The B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralite Crappie Spin Rod comes in two different lengths, is lightweight yet durable.
Key Features
- Available in 4-foot and 6-foot lengths
- Graphite rod
- Ultralight power
- Ultralight action
- 1/32-ounce to 1/8-ounce lure size
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- Portuguese cork spinning handle
- Stainless steel guides
The B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralite Crappie Spin Rod is built with a winning combination of great quality and strong material. The graphite rod is ultralight, but it’s still sturdy enough to handle a fight – providing you’re fighting a tiny, feisty fish. The reel features a double touch casting system, which means the line spins freely when you want it to, and stays secure when you need it to remain locked.
The B’n’M has highly-polished guides, with a slick finish that allows for smooth, tangle-free casts and easy retrieval. It’s also well-balanced, which makes it a good choice for beginning anglers. It’s only available at 4 ½-feet, but it’s very reasonably priced if you’re in the market for a shorter rod.
Pros
- Comfortable, secure grip
- Smooth, tangle-free guides
- Affordable
Cons
- Not available in long lengths
This is a great choice if you’re looking for a shorter crappie fishing rod.
7. Zebco CRFUL/S802L Spin Fishing Rod
Zebco CRFUL/S802L Spin Fishing Rod
Features
- Right or Left hand retrieve
- All metal gears
- Selectable Anti-reverse
The Zebco Spin Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a sturdy rod that comes at a reasonable price.
Key Features
- 4’7” long
- Carbon fiber rod
- Light power
- Light action
- 1/16-ounce to ¼-ounce lure size
- 6-pound line weight
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Aluminum guides
The Zebco Spin Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is an excellent choice for left-handed anglers. The reel and handle are easily reversible, so you’re not going to be stuck with a right-handed configuration. The reel features powerful metal gears, which are sturdy enough to handle a much bigger fish than crappie if you so desire. That said, the light power and action are perfectly well-suited for hauling in these small, delicate fish.
Another thing we appreciated was the anti-reverse feature. This keeps the line from getting pulled out when you don’t want it to. Fight hard if you want, although we’d recommend giving a crappie at least a little bit of play.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Great choice for southpaws
- Affordable
Cons
- Short length
This rod is great for medium-sized freshwater fish as well as reeling in crappie.
8. Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshall Pro IM8 Premium Cork Crappie Rods
Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshall Pro Crappie Rods
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Features
- Premium IM8 graphite blanks
- Stainless steel spinning guides with stainless steel inserts
- Lightweight graphite spinning reel seats
The Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshall Pro Rod is designed for long casting and easy retrieval
Key Features
- Available in 8 to 12-foot lengths
- Graphite rod
- Medium light power
- Medium action
- 1/32-ounce to ¼-ounce lure size
- 4-pound to 10-pound line weight
- Cork spinning handle
- Stainless steel guides
The Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshall Pro Rod is designed for very sensitive handling. It features not just a graphite rod, but graphite reel seats as well. Of course, this doesn’t just make the rod sensitive. It’s also lightweight, so you can cast effortlessly, without feeling like your swinging a baseball bat around.
The guides are constructed from stainless steel, which is smooth enough, but nothing to write home about. That said, it does feature a stainless steel hook keeper, which helps keep your line from getting tangled.
This rod is available in lengths up to twelve feet, which makes it an excellent choice for long casting. Just keep in mind that the longer your rod is, the more space you’ll need to swing it.
Pros
- Available in very long lengths
- Sensitive for a light rod
- Long, comfortable handle
Cons
- Requires a lot of room for casting
This rod is great for casting and retrieving along a shoreline.
9. Lews Fishing MR Crappie Slab Shaker Combo
Lews Fishing MR Crappie Slab Shaker Combo
Features
- Reel has graphite body and rotor
- Dual bearing construction
- Chrome plated spool and drag knob
- Country of Origin:United States
The Lews Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker Combo is designed specifically for catching crappie.
Key Features
- 5’6” long
- Graphite rod
- Light power
- Light action
- 1/8-ounce to 1/4-ounce lure size
- 4-pound to 8-pound line weight
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Stainless steel guides
The Lews Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker Combo is a short, 5 ½-foot rod that’s designed specifically for catching crappie. Not only is it compact and easy to transport, but it’s also lightweight, with a graphite rod and a fiberglass handle that provides good balance for such a light rod.
The Slab Shakr is a great choice for beginners. It comes pre-wound with 4-pound line, so all you need is some bait to get started fishing. And it’s easy to cast, which means you can focus on developing your technique instead of getting your bait caught up in a tree. It’s a very affordable rod, but the downside is that it’s not very rugged. Use this rod to get started, then upgrade to another one.
Pros
- Very flexible
- Lightweight construction
- Long, easy casting
Cons
- Not very durable
This rod and reel comes pre-spooled with 4-pound line.
10. St Croix Panfish Series Spinning Rod
The St Croix Panfish Series Spinning Rod is available in very long 9-foot lengths, providing plenty of leverage for a long cast.
Key Features
- Available in 5-foot to 9-foot lengths
- Graphite rod
- Ultralight power
- Fast action
- 1/32-ounce to 3/16-ounce lure size
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- Cork spinning handle
- Stainless steel guides
The St Croix Panfish Series Spinning Rod is yet another entry from St. Croix. As we hope we’ve already made clear, this is a fantastic brand, and any of their rods are well worth your investment. This particular rod is their budget option, although “budget” for St. Croix really just means average-priced.
This rod comes with a fast action, although not quite as fast as the last St. Croix rod we looked at. Still, it’s more than forgiving enough for crappie, and for other light fish.
This rod is very smooth casting, and you can cast it a long distance, thanks to the 9-foot shaft. Be careful about transportation, though; it doesn’t break down for travel, and at 9 feet you’ll need to leave a window open to carry it in most vehicles. That said, it’s very soft, so you’ll feel light strikes without any issues.
Pros
- Available in very long lengths
- Long, easy casting
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Difficult to transport
These rods are very sensitive, so you’ll feel every nibble.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for the best crappie rod and reel, it’s easy to get caught up in technical features. This isn’t to say that technical features aren’t important; we’ve spent a lot of time talking about them. But it’s also important to get a rod with a comfortable grip.
As we hope we’ve made clear, the most important feature of any rod is control. A light action helps with this. A flexible tip helps with this. But so does a grip that works well for you. After all, it doesn’t matter how well your rod works in the hands of some imaginary angler. It matters how well it fits in your hands.
We hope our crappie pole reviews have helped you find the perfect rod and reel for your needs. With the right rod, you’ll get years of reliable performance. That means you’ll be able to spend less time fiddling with your gear, and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
The Review
Best Crappie Rods
Read through our reviews of the best crappie rods on the market before making your purchase!
Review Breakdown
- St Croix Premier Spinning Rod
- Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning Rods
- Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spin
- St Croix Panfish 5.4ft ULF 1pc Spinning Rod
- Lew's Fishing Mr Crappie Slab Daddy 2 Pc Rods
- Shakespeare CH9025SPBO Crappie Hunter Spinning Rod
- B'n'M Duck Commander Ultralite Crappie Spin Rod
- Zebco CRFUL/S802L Spin Fishing Rod
- Lew's Fishing Wally Marshall Pro Crappie Rods
- Lews Fishing MR Crappie Slab Shaker Combo
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