Ice Rod Selection - Bill Snover

[Matt Johnson]

Ice Rod Selection

By: Bill Snover - Clam Pro Staff

I was recently asked how to choose a first Ice Fishing Rod, in short here is what I do...

As with any new sport a first experience is followed by new equipment. Ice fishing is in a league all it's own, stop by any reputable Bait and Tackle Shop in the ice belt and you'll find a vast array of ice fishing rods. Like any other fishing rod, ice rods are designed in many lengths, actions and construction.

Several options are out there to consider and the time has come to select the rod you'll be making memories with! Ice rods come as short as 18" and as long as 30", depending on what your species of choice may be will determine the length and weight or action will suit you. For the angler on the hunt for large fish such as Northern Pike, Lake Trout or even Bass a medium or heavy rod accompanied with a reel that can handle 8 to 12 pound test line. For the crappie, Perch and Bluegill an Ultra Light or Light action rod is a great investment. Finally for those who are in pursuit of the popular Walleye a medium action rod should suit you perfectly.

Rod action also plays a monumental part of how you should choose a rod. Rod action will support the action of the jig/lure you intend to use. A fast rod will have the needed flex at the tip for the smaller jigs to work properly. Medium action rods have flex in the middle of the rod and Heavy action rods will have a slower action near the handle of the rod. The faster action rod is what you want for finesse and faster hook sets.

I prefer a rod with four guides or eyelets the more eyelets there are the more consistent the rod bend will be. Larger eyelets will also prevent freezing that causes line to bind while reeling or dropping your choice of bait or jig.

Rod construction is a matter of personal preference, Fiberglass normally being the least expensive but comes at a cost of being less sensitive, Composite rods cost a little more but provides more sensitivity on the other hand are less durable than fiberglass, Graphite rods usually costing the most are light weight and provide good sensitivity and strength.

Cost will vary from as little as $20.00 to as much as $100.00 What it all comes down to is what fish do I choose to fish for, rod durability and sensitivity and finally how much you want to spend for the amount of fishing you intend to do.

Hope this helps those that may be in the market for a new Ice Fishing Rod!