Let me offer advice after building 200+ crappie rods from fly rod blanks. I buy a 9' 4 pc brown colored blank from GETBENT fly shop here in St Lois MO for about $38.95 something dollars plus $9.95 shipping in a cloth bag in a tube. GOOD PEOPLE. I use the Airwave guide set up as I have found the guide placement starting at 19" from face of reel helps with reducing line slap, thereby increasing length of cast (TRY IT BEFORE YOU DOUBT IT). The blanks are about a 5 weight fly rod, so I guestimate that to be a medium crappie rod. I'm about to turn 85, so I will gladly give you the machines to put the rod together (Its really easy with a little patience) If you would like to discuss further or meet near St Louis County (Westport area), drop me a private message. NUBSTER