All of the above is good advice... for jigging, I use a lightweight 8' flyrod... When money IS an issue, use what you've already got and that's what I already had when I started crappie fishing. I've caught lots of fish on it and it's a blast when you hook something bigger. I have used much more expensive rigs that belonged to others and they do feel much better in your hand and are more sensitive... no question about it. But there's no way I'm dropping 100$ on a rod.

you may want to figure out what the application is going to be. vertical jig, jig and float, drop shot so on and then your price and expectations then decide what what is out there that meets those demands.

There are several great rod makers that make good rods, it is all in what you are really looking for and budget. American rodsmith makes agood line od rods as well.

St Croix also has the mojo bass line that is lower in price but has some nice rods that have a great feel and can be used in panfish applications that will not kill a budget. I have sveral of the St Croix rods and like them but as stated they are not for everyone. It is up to the person and what he truely wants and expect.

The three greatest pleasures to hold.
A fine gun, a fast rod and a firm _____.

I love my BnM Sam Heaton Super Sensitive. I can feel when a crappie is looking at the jig. Really like the St. Croix's as well though just didn't know about them when I bought the BnM.

Chuck Rollins got me hooked on Wally Marshall rods! I jus love the way they feel in my hand. My favorite model is the 7' mighty light series.

Though I plan to get a St.Croix, I have the shimano rods. I have the shimano crucial, and I tell you what, I LOVE that rod!!!!! I'd recommend that rod to anyone. Very light and sensitive. The st.croix that is as light as the crucial is the legend series. Both are great rods. Buy what doesn't hurt your pockets.

Just got me a Shimano Crucial rod. Love the way it feels in my hand and the stiffness of the rod. Haven't gotten any slime on it but I think I will try to get some tomorrow.

If you are wanting to not spend a fortune here are a few rods that I've tried and liked. Berkley Lighting Series, Berkley Cherrywoods but my favorite rod that is affordable is by far the Pro Angler rods. Nice backbone, lighter, more sensitive than most rods at that price. Great customer service in Ed too. I like the 8' cork handle rods personally. I also hear good things about Wally's signature series as well as some of the B&M's bu they aren't stiff enough for my taste.

Oh yea, gotta love blessing a new rod!! Slime it up my man....slime it up!

Reading this post reminded me I needed to order (2) 10 foot cork handle rods from pro angler. I have read good responses from fisherman using them, I hope I can share their same experience.

You won't be disappointed. Don't foget an 8 footer for the bridges too though.

I will certainly check them out. Thanks!

I do love mine! Don't forget FinnyTribe carries them. FinnyTribe