I have looked at all my fly rods and none of them have stamped on them that they are for trout only! I, too, was a tournament bass fisherman for 30+ years and just got burnt out on the crowded lakes and the joy of fishing went away. After selling everything (bass boat, etc.) a friend turned me on to fly fishing about 12 years ago and I wish I had picked up a fly rod 30 years ago. I have missed out on a lot of fun, but, I am trying to make up for it!
I use fly rods for all my fishing no matter what species I am going after. I tie my own flies for trout, bluegill, bass, stripers, etc.
Don't let anyone tell you a fly rod is for trout only.
Welcome to the wonderful world of fly fishing.
PS - You should be ashamed of yourself for catching crappie and then moving closer to your father-in-law so you could "rub it in"!
Warren
Fly fishing and fly tying are two things that I do, and when I am doing them, they are the only 2 things I think about. They clear my mind.