If I had a design idea for a crappie reel. How would I go about getting this in the works?

Find an engineer and machine shop.

You could probably just just find a machine shop. They know engineers if it's needed.

I run a CNC Machine shop but, I can't engineer a reel the way it needs to be done. Just thought maybe someone on here would know someone who does that kind of thing.

Where do engineers go to look for work? Maybe you post something there.

Your gonna Have alot of sleepless nights Now not only worrying about How to get this reel built but also where are the Crappie today ... GOOD LUCK

research CAD..... computer aided drafting.

I'm a retired eng and machist-toolmaker. and CADguy too
s3nd me yor idea and i'll give you an honest opinion

I like using micro spinning reels to crappie fish. That's all I use. I would like to shorten the reel mount to bring the reel closer to the rod where the spool wire barely clears the rod and also shorten the reel handle. along with that, shorten then reel spool wire to bring it closer to the line spool. What do ya think?

I like your idea also, i use B&m rods with ultra light spinning reels I thought it would be easier to remove the bottom two guides and replace them with larger spinning guides
but if the made a reel like that I"m in. I just feels I can cast further withh spinning reels and a single super light jig under a tiny slip foat, make it happen number 1

Take what you think is closest and modify it.....

Make sure you have modified enough to not be infringing on their patent..

Get a patent.

Go back to the original manufacturer and sell them the patent WITH a guarentee they will put it into production..