Same thing I use in the boat, 8ft pro angler, spinning reel, jigs or minnows

Only time I use a baitcaster in the yak is on the coast

If you're fishing from your kayak under bridges and between pilings specifically for crappie, the 5 1/2 foot rods are hard to beat from a boat or kayak. Was on my buddy's boat the other day and my 7 foot rods were too long. I used one of his from my kayak the other day for just crappie fishing and it was so much easier. Since you are normally fishing for crappie straight down you'll want to fish as near to what is directly under your transducer, if using a fish finder. The shorter more limber crappie rods will allow you to lift them almost straight up and into your hands without having your rod hitting stuff overhead. The one below is the combo I was using. If I fished for crappie more than once or twice a year I'd get one.

http://www.mrcrappie.com/products/Lews/wally-marshall-signature-series-rods.php

I can also vouch that they can handle 5+ lb bass as my bud caught the one below on the same setup while we were crappie fishing.

lol ! caught a few Bass out of Fork and Blue cat on Ray Roberts on pro angler crappie rods. serious bending action

It definitely adds to the excitement when your rod is bent down into the handle.

I like 7-8 ft rods in the yak. The only kicker is the handle length. I like 10-12".