Are there any domestic (US) sources for ultralight or light power blanks that have a solid/very small diameter tip integrated? I'm talking tip diameter of 0.75mm or so. Basically, an ice fishing power noodle top integrated with a tubular carbon blank in that 6-7' length. I know that the Japanese domestic market has had rods of this style being very popular in the past. I'm curious to build a couple rods on this style of blank for pitching jigs to very finicky crappie in the northern states. Typically throwing small plastics on 1/32-1/16 ounce jigs, and the strike is often nothing more than an unloading of the rod tip. It's a visual bite, very much the same as most strikes while ice fishing - so a rod tip that is loaded up slightly under the weight of the light jig is very helpful. Thanks!

[voodoorods.com]

Thank you - that's exactly what I am searching for. They are expensive - but a very unique blank that I think would excel for this bite.

Rick,
There is a very simple inexpensive solution to your problem.

The solution is called a "Rocket Bobber"

At rest, the bobber lays on its side. At the slightest bite - the bobber tips up - signifing a bite.

You have an ultra sensitive bite detecter no matter the rod that is being used:

[www.google.com]

I prefer using a long Salmon rod for catching finicky Crappies. With the backbone and length of a salmon rod, one can cast the rocket bobber and ultra small jigs a very long distance indeed.

I also use a larger reel with an ultra high rate of retreive. This allows to remain at a distance from the finicky crappies, cast over the school of fish, work the school and then quiickly retreive the bait for another cast.

Best wishes.