Because of the nature of Crappie, pretty much any pole will suffice. However, beware as Crappie do not put up an admirable fight like other freshwater fish do. Sometimes, you may not even know that you caught a Crappie unless you are paying close attention. This is the main reason a lightweight pole should be used.

Cane poles are a good option if you are on a small budget. Cane pole sets can be found at just about any department stores fishing department or outdoors store. Cane poles work by tying a line on the end of the pole, and then dangling it in the water. Once a Crappie bites, you pull the pole in and the line out of the water with your hand. Cane poles do not contain any type of reeling mechanism.

Fly rods work in the same manner as cane poles, but they allow you more control over bait placement. Fly rods require an unique type of bait, so you may want to consider talking with a trained professional when buying your first fly rod.

Telescopic poles give you the length to pitch into heavy cover. Telescopic poles can reach lengths up to 16 or 18 feet. The most popular length however, is more along the lines of 10 to 12 feet. This way, if the cover you are fishing is wide, you have more control placing your bait in specific spots. Telescopic rods are also popular because you can collapse them to a much smaller version, allowing you to carry your pole with you. In the event that you decide to stop at the river on the way home, you always have a pole with you.

Your sons Snoopy pole or your daughters Barbie can even be used to catch Crappie. Because of the small size and structure of children's pole, you are more likely to know when you are getting a hit from a Crappie.

Picking Your Pole For Your Situation

If your situation calls for precise placement and control, you may opt for a cane pole, telescopic pole. The sheer size of the poles allow you to reach over even the widest type of cover, allows you to place the jig anywhere. You will have minimal line control, but precise control over where the jig is placed.

Rod-and-reel poles, such as a regular fishing pole, or your child's lightweight themed pole, offer broader applications than the simple poles. Beyond being useful for traditional long-pole jigging techniques, the same outfits can be used for casting or even be added to a trolling spread.