I have always fished spinning reels for my crappie fishing, hold in right hand reel handle on left side. I have developed tendonitis so bad in my right elbow I can just barely set the hook, today on Palestine I was almost dreading getting a bite, I know it sounds crazy, but it HURTS bad. I guess I need to switch to casting reel for a while, till my elbow heals. For years I have used 7ft Med Lt St Croix spinning rods. Is there a casting rod out there that is about the same action? I can't seem to find one.

Why not just switch the handle to the other side on your spinning reel? I feel your pain. I switched most of my casting reels for the same reason. I've never seen a spinning reel that couldn't be switched over. But I'm guessing there might be some out there.

Yep, no reason to buy new equipment

if you are dead set on trying a casting setup I suggest getting a 9' Mr Crappie RRS graphite rod and put an Abu Garcia black max with the flipping switch on it. I decided to try out a casting setup just to see how I like it without dumping a bunch of money in it, I already had the reel and went to academy for the rod. Im not used to fishing with anything longer than a 7' rod so it took a little getting used to, but it was definitely handy for getting right where I want to be under structure and for gauging depth when dead sticking. The flipping switch on the reel is as handy as a shirt pocket, you push the button and let a little line out and it'll pop back up, no need to turn the reel to set it again. Just my two cents

I had/have the same problem... I did some self therapy, and cortisone shots fixed my right elbow...but had to have surgery on the left one, which left me 50% better, but much weaker...I have had to change much of my fishing style and techniques, learn new presentations, etc etc...just recently rigged a 9 rod with a left handed black max,I hold the rod in my right hand and let the reel hang under like a spinning reel, when I get a thump I just rotate my forearm up and the reel handle is right there for my left hand turn...I cant take full credit for this cause I saw this somewhere on a YouTube video... so far I'm liking this for vertical fishing...good luck to you.

I am trying to sell a G Loomis rod that would be excellent for Crappie fishing if paired with a good reel for light lures. Send me a PM if you're interested.