Crappie fishing is one of the more challenging types of fishing. At first glance, this seems silly. After all, crappie aren’t big or powerful fish. To the contrary. Like most members of the sunfish family, they run on the small side.
Experienced crappie anglers may already be nodding their heads. And like any challenging catch, using the wrong rod can turn your crappie fishing trip into a failure. To find the best crappie rods, you need to look for rods with a light touch.
The reason for this is that crappie have soft upper palates and jaws. As a result, a firm rod is likely to pull your hook all the way through the flesh when you’re setting it. To properly catch some crappie, you want a lightweight or even an ultralight rod. And you want a light or fast action, so you can give the fish some slack if it’s a fighter.
Top-Rated Crappie Rods Available
1. St Croix Premier
Features
- PREMIUM SCII CARBON CONSTRUCTION: The premium SCII carbon rod combines with the Fortified Resin system (FRS) for unparalleled strength and durability
- PREMIUM-GRADE CORK HANDLE: Comfortable handle ensures you maintain a strong grip on your fishing rod
- MORE FEATURES: Kigan Master Hand 3D guides with slim, strong aluminum-oxide rings and black frames finish; Fuji DPS reel seat with frosted silver hoods; Kigan hook-keeper; Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish
- SPECIFICATIONS: Length – 7’0”; 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
If you’re looking for a flexible, responsive rod, the St. Croix Premier Spinning Rod is tough to beat.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Aluminum oxide guides
- 12 ¼” cork spinning handle
- Ultralight power
- Fast action
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 1/32 to 3/16-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 4.6 to 8.6-foot lengths
The Premier Spinning Rod is one of St. Croix’ newer offerings, and it’s one we were excited to get a look at. It has a fast action, combined with an ultralight graphite shaft, which allows for plenty of sensitivity and a soft touch. Sinking a hook in a crappie has never been easier.
This rod also allows for very easy casting and retrieval. The aluminum oxide guides are so smooth that the line will glide in and out effortlessly. And the cork handle is comfortable and well-cushioned.
Pros
- Soft, easy-to-grip handle
- Great for long casts
- Sensitive tip
Cons
- Pricey
The St. Croix is a great choice if you’re willing to spend top dollar for the best rod and reel.
2. Cadence CR5-30
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.
- 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.
- 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 has SIC inserts, which provide for smooth casting and retrieving.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides with SIC inserts
- 12” foam and cork spinning handle
- Ultralight power
- Medium action
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 1/32 to 1/8-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 5.5 to 7-foot lengths
The Cadence CR5-30 Spinning Rod is a medium length rod with a medium action, ideal for medium-sized ponds or small lakes. It’s an ultralight rod, but it’s still difficult to break. In addition to crappie, it’s also useful for a variety of smaller fish It’s even capable of handling a small bass, although it’s not ideal for that purpose.
This rod is affordably-priced, but you don’t need to worry about the quality. It’s one of the best-engineered rods in its price class.
Pros
- Very smooth casting and retrieving
- Sensitive tip
- Affordable
Cons
- Too light for larger fish
This is one of the easiest rods to set.
3. Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner
Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner
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’s aluminum guides allow for ultra-smooth casting and retrieval.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Titanium guides
- Split cork split handle
- Ultralight power
- Fast action
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 1/32 to 3/16-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 5’8” to 8-foot lengths
The Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner is a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for. Fenwick is a premium brand, and that kind of quality doesn’t come cheap. The fast action is perfect for crappie, since it will give a little slack rather than tear through the fish’s mouth.
The casting is also smooth, thanks to the durable, low-friction titanium guides. The handle is split, allowing for a wide grip and plenty of fine control.
Pros
- Extra-sensitive tip
- Very smooth casting and retrieving
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Pricey
This rod has one of the most comfortable grips on the market.
4. Lew’s Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy
Lew's Fishing Mr Crappie Slab Daddy
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 has stainless steel hook grippers, which keep your line from tangling.
Key Features
- Fiberglass rod
- Stainless steel guides
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Ultralight power
- Light action
- 4 to 10-pound line weight
- 1/16 to 3/16-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 9 to 12-foot lengths
The Lew’s Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy is an extra-long rod that’s designed for long casting. It has a 2-piece design, which allows for easy transportation despite the 9 to 12-foot length.
Casting is made easier by the aluminum oxide guide inserts, which have virtually no friction. And stainless steel hook grippers do a great job of preventing line tangling. The handle is constructed from EVA foam, which is soft enough not to cause blisters even after a long day’s fishing.
Pros
- 2-piece design is very portable
- Ultra-long lengths
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Easily damaged
This rod is available in lengths up to 12 feet. Wow!
5. Shakespeare Crappie Hunter
Shakespeare Crappie Hunter
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’s anti-reverse reel prevents small fish from pulling out slack.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Aluminum guides
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Light power
- Fast action
- 4-pound line weight
- 1/8 to 1/4-ounce lure weight
- 9-foot length
The Shakespeare Crappie Hunter is designed as a multi-species rod, capable of handling crappie as well as many medium-sized species. This comes at the cost of some sensitivity, though, so beginning crappie anglers may still find it too stiff.
Like the Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy we just looked at, it’s fairly long, but has a 2-piece design for easy storage and transport. It also comes pre-strung with 4-pound fishing line, which is the ideal choice for smaller fish.
Pros
- 2-piece design is highly portable
- Anti-reverse reel
- Very durable
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
This rod is light enough for crappie, but sturdy enough for medium-sized fish.
6. B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralite
B'n'M Duck Commander Ultralite
Features
- Product Type: Sporting Goods
- Package Dimensions: 59.436 L X 5.08 W X 1.016 H (Centimeters)
- Package Weight: 0.15 Pounds
- Country Of Origin: China
The B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralight is a great choice if you want a shorter rod.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides
- Cork spinning handle
- Ultralight power
- Ultralight action
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 1/32 to 1/8-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 4 to 6-foot lengths
The B’n’M Duck Commander Ultralite is, as its name implies, designed for small fish like crappie. It’s relatively short, so it’s better suited for boat fishing than for long casting, but once you get a fish on the hook, you’ll have a relatively easy fight. The rod has plenty of flex, so a crappie won’t easily yank out the hook.
In addition, the guides are polished to an exceptionally smooth finish. As a result, tangles and snags are reduced to a minimum.
Pros
- Smooth-casting stainless steel guides
- Comfortable cork grip
- Affordable
Cons
- Only short lengths available
This rod provides a balance of light weight and durability.
7. Zebco CRFUL/S802L
Features
- Right or Left hand retrieve
- All metal gears
- Selectable Anti-reverse
The Zebco CRFUL/S802L is capable of bringing in medium-sized fish as well as crappie.
Key Features
- Carbon fiber rod
- Aluminum guides
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Light power
- Light action
- 6-pound line weight
- 1/16 to 1/4-ounce lure weight
- 4-foot, 7-inch length
The Zebco CRFUL/S802L is a lightweight rod that’s designed to handle a variety of fish. It combines a flexible rod with a sturdy reel that features metal gears rather than plastic. If you also want to use your crappie rod for bass fishing, the CRFUL/S802L is a solid choice.
It’s also a great choice if you’re left-handed. The reel and the EVA foam handle are both reversible, so you won’t have to hold the rod in your off hand while retrieving.
Pros
- Good choice for left-handed anglers
- Durable design
- Affordable
Cons
- Not very long
This rod is both durable and affordable.
8. Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshall Pro
Lew's Fishing Wally Marshall Pro IM8
Features
- Made in the U. S. A.
- Premium Im8 graphite blanks
- 10', 2 Piece, Medium/Light Power, Medium Action
- Crafted from the highest quality material ensuring quality and durability
The Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshal Pro is an ideal choice for cast-and-retrieve fishing along the shore.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides
- Cork spinning handle
- Medium-light power
- Medium action
- 4 to 10-pound line weight
- 1/32 to 1/4-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 8 to 12-foot lengths
The Lew’s Fishing Wally Marshall Pro is made almost entirely of graphite, including the reel seats. This does two things. First, it reduces the weight to a bare minimum. Secondly, without any metal seats, you get significantly more sensitivity.
The rod is very long, which means it’s ideal for standing and casting from the shore. And stainless steel guides and a long grip make casting easy and comfortable.
Pros
- Sensitive, responsive tip
- Extra-long design
- Extended grip accommodates larger hands
Cons
- Not good for fishing in tight areas
This rod is designed for long casts and slow, lazy retrieval.
9. Lew’s 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 Lew’s Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker Combo comes ready-to-use with 4-pound line.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Light power
- Light action
- 4 to 8-pound line weight
- 1/8 to 1/4-ounce lure weight
- 5-foot, 6-inch length
The Lew’s Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker Combo is a dedicated crappie fishing rod that’s designed for light weight and easy portability. At 5 ½ feet long, it’s not ideal for long casting, but it’s perfect for fishing from a boat. That said, short casting is relatively easy.
The reel comes pre-loaded with 4-pound line, which is just what you need for a small fish. This is a beginner rod and reel, with a price point to match. It’s a great choice if you’re just starting out, but eventually you’re going to want a more durable rod.
Pros
- Designed for long casting
- Exceptionally flexible
- Lightweight and easy to transport
Cons
- Easy to damage
As its name implies, this rod was designed specifically for catching crappie.
10. Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2
Ugly Stik GX2
1 used from $42.18
Features
- UGLY STIK 5’ GX2 SPINNING FISHING ROD AND REEL SPINNING COMBO: The next-gen Ugly Stik, featuring better balance and improved components. From the makers of the #1 rod series in the world. Right/Left handle position.
- UGLY TECH CONSTRUCTION: 2-piece, Ugly Tech construction combines graphite and fiberglass, for a strong, yet sensitive rod. Includes 7 year warranty on rod. Gear ratio of 5.2:1 provides smooth operation and mechanical advantage.
- SIZE 25 REEL: 4 ball bearing system for smooth operation. Features 5 guides to provide durability and eliminate insert pop-outs during rough treatment.
- INSTANT ANTI-REVERSE SYSTEM with one-way clutch for quick hook sets. Reel features compression bail springs for longer lifespan, with machined double-anodized spool. EVA handle balances durability and comfort.
- 2-6LB LINE RATING, LIGHT POWER: Ugly Stik Clear Tip delivers strength and sensitivity. Mono Capacity yd/lb: 200/2 120/4 90/6.
The Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 is one of the most reliable and well-known rods on the market.
Key Features
- Fiberglass rod
- Aluminum guides
- EVA foam spinning handle
- Light power
- Ultralight, light, or medium action
- 4 to 6-pound line weight
- 1/4 to 3/8-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 4’8” to 7-foot lengths
The Ugly Stik GX2 requires no introduction. If you’re fishing with an Ugly Stik, you’re using one of the best rods out there. The GX2 has a fiberglass rod rather than graphite, which is more sensitive, albeit not quite as flexible. It’s also exceptionally durable.
The reel is a bit of an oddball. On the one hand, it has a built-in anti-reverse bearing that makes it easier than ever to set your hook. On the other hand, there’s no reverse toggle, so you can expect your thumb to get quite a workout.
Pros
- Exceptionally durable
- Very smooth casting and retrieving
- Soft, comfortable grip
Cons
- No reverse toggle
The GX2 is a great choice if you want a top-tier rod at a medium price.
11. Cadence CC5
Features
- What Makes the CC5: The Cadence CC5 is built from 24-ton graphite and features corrosion resistant stainless steel guides & inserts, a strong carbon composite frame & side plates, a lightweight & comfortable oversized ergonomic EVA handle knob and reliable stainless steel main shaft and aluminum pinion gear. The CC5 series of combos include our CS5 spinning reel and our CC5 spinning rod in a variety of sizes and actions to meet the needs of most any fishing situation.
- Quality Materials: The CC5 combo series from Cadence offers quality components and materials that surpass the competition. The blanks are constructed from 24 ton carbon and come in a variety of lengths, actions and power ratings to accommodate a variety of fishing. The carbon composite frame and side plates make the CC5 strong and corrosion resistant. The 8 ball bearings + 1 instant anti-reverse bearing help make the CC5 smooth and resistance free.
- A Rod for All: The CC5 series of combos include our CS5 spinning reel and our CC5 spinning rod in a variety of sizes and actions making the CC5 a great spinning combo to have in your collection – ideal for gamefish including freshwater fish like bass, walleye and trout as well as popular inshore species like redfish, speckled trout and flounder with a rinse after fishing.
- Give The Gift of Fishing: With every Cadence purchase, we promise to put youth combos in the hands of our next generation through one of our charity partners. Cadence believes that fishing can bring generations together in a hectic world, and impart some valuable lessons along the way! We want to see more people stepping away from the TV screen, and into the great outdoors. Help us share the joy of a day on the water with the next generation.
- Performance For Less: Cadence products offer high-performance premium features at an unbeatable value. Fishing with quality, dependable gear should not mean breaking the bank. Our experienced team works to prove that every day. All Cadence products come with a best-in-class customer service team to make your ownership experience as smooth as one of our reels.
The Cadence CC5 is a medium-power rod that’s still soft enough to bring in a crappie.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides
- EVA foam split grip
- Medium power
- Fast action
- 8 to 10-pound line weight
- 1/16 to 3/16-ounce lure weight
- 7-foot length
The Cadence CC5 is exceptionally tough for its light weight. This is thanks to the sturdy, 24-ton graphite that’s used to construct the rod. It’s available in 5 different lengths, although the 7-foot variant provides the best balance between portability and casting.
The guides are constructed from stainless steel, which is polished to a smooth finish. This allows for a smooth, effortless cast with minimal risk of tangling.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Stainless steel guides prevent snagging
- 2-piece design is easily portable
Cons
- A little pricey
The ball bearings and drag on this rod are very well engineered.
12. St. Croix Panfish
Features
- PREMIUM SCVI CARBON CONSTRUCTION: Dynamic blend of super high-modulus SCVI carbon and premium quality SCII carbon with FRS for unparalleled strength and durability
- PREMIUM-GRADE CORK HANDLE: Comfortable cork handle ensures you maintain a strong grip on your fishing rod
- FEATURES: Sea Guide guides w/ stainless steel rings and frames; Sea Guide XMS (spinning) split style reel seats w/ custom inserts for sensitivity and comfort; Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish; For trout, crappie, bluegill and other panfish
- SPECIFICATIONS: Length – 5’4”; Power – UL; Action – Fast; Pieces – 1; Line Wt; – 2-6 lbs; Lure Wt; – 1/32-3/16 oz; Rod Wt; – 2;4 oz; Handle - 1
- 5-YEAR WARRANTY: Backed by St; Croix Superstar Service
The St. Croix Panfish is one of the sturdiest ultralight rods that money can buy.
Key Features
- Graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides
- Cork spinning handle
- Ultralight power
- Fast action
- 2 to 6-pound line weight
- 1/32 to 3/16-ounce lure weight
- Comes in 5 to 9-foot lengths
The St. Croix Panfish is a mid-priced series of fishing rods from a premium manufacturer. They’re available in several lengths, ranging from 5 to 9 feet, all of which have a fast action and ultralight power. As a result, they’re not a good choice for bigger fish, but they’re perfect for crappie and other species with soft mouths.
With the longer lengths, you’ll get a long, easy cast, while the shorter lengths are more convenient for boat fishing. But all of them have stainless steel guides for easy retrieval.
Pros
- Great for long casting
- Comfortable, ergonomic grip
- Comes in both short and long lengths
Cons
- Long length makes transport challenging
This rod’s 9-foot length allows for long casting without being overly cumbersome.
The Final Word
We’ve spent a lot of time talking about technical features, and there’s a reason for that; they’re important. As we mentioned at the outset, it’s essential to have a rod with a soft touch and a light action. For crappie fishing, there’s just no getting around that. Equally important, though, is ensuring that you’re comfortable with the grip.
This goes back to the reason you want those technical features to begin with: control. A flexible rod with light action means you at least have the potential for control. But you can only realize that control if the rod is comfortable to hold and operate.
We hope our reviews have helped you sort out your options for the best crappie rod. Now all you have to do is find the right one for your hands and grip. No rod and reel can guarantee a successful catch. But the right gear will significantly improve your chances.
