Can you describe (and explain) an easy crappie fishing rig that a beginner could easily put together for fishing?

There are several options for a novice crappie angler. The first, and most productive for the money is a simple cane pole. They can be made easily, or purchased for an insignificant amount at almost any store that carries fishing gear, and some that don’t. Most convienience stores near lakes and rivers even sell them. A good one can be purchased for under $15.00, already rigged and ready to fish. All you need to do is hook on a minnow and drop it in the water. They can be used with jigs as well. Cane poles are great for fishing in heavy cover, where other rods would get hung up. Next up is a commerical ‘Crappie Pole’. These are like cane poles, but they are made from graphite or fiberglass. They can come in several pieces for easy storage and transport, or telecoping versions, sometimes with a built-in simple reel. They have all the advantages of cane poles, and are tougher and more weather resistant. They are easier to transport in a car or truck. A good Crappie Pole from B & M, or other reputable manufacturer will run anywhere from $5.00 to over $50.00, depending on what you get. More money = better grips, better line storage, better finish, etc…..You get what you pay for. For a true novice, my last recommendation is to purchase one of the wonderful Crappie-Specialty rigs from Zebco, Johnson and others. For a reasonable sum, you get a good quality med-light rod, a dependable, backlash-free spincasting reel, and sometimes even a complete outfit with tackle box, hooks, sinkers, bobbers, jigs….the works. Prices range from $ 15.00 $40.00. And the really cool thing about these rigs is that they can be used for other panfish such as bluegills and perch, as well as bass and catfish. They are great all-around rigs. For terminal tackle, all you really need is a modest tackle box, a handful or two of split shots or 1/8 oz. sinkers, a few dozen aberdden hooks in size 6 and 4, and maybe a dozen or more marabou jigs, in yellow, white, chartruese or any combination. A spool of 6 lb. line can come in handy ( I prefer Trilene). A fish basket to hold your catch is nice if you plan on taking any fish home to eat (crappie don’t do well on stringers…their soft mouths tear easily). Add a few dozen minnows, and you’re good to go. Just find a likely spot, and have at em’ Happy Fishing!