11 best ice fishing rods

Ice fishing rods are specialized fishing rods designed for use in cold weather conditions, specifically for the sport of ice fishing. These rods are essential tools for anglers who venture out onto frozen bodies of water to catch fish through holes cut in the ice. Here's what you need to know about ice fishing rods:

Purpose: Ice fishing rods are designed for use during the winter months when lakes and ponds are frozen over. Anglers use these rods to drop baited hooks or lures through holes in the ice to catch fish that are active beneath the frozen surface.
Construction: Ice fishing rods are typically shorter than traditional fishing rods, typically ranging from 18 inches to 48 inches in length. They are designed to be compact and easy to handle in cramped ice fishing shelters.
Materials: These rods are often made from durable materials like fiberglass or graphite to withstand the cold temperatures and the stresses of ice fishing. The choice of material can impact the rod's sensitivity and strength.
Action: Ice fishing rods come in different action types, such as light, medium, or heavy. The action determines how the rod bends and flexes when pressure is applied. Light action rods are more flexible and suitable for smaller fish, while heavy action rods are stiffer and can handle larger, stronger fish.
Reel Compatibility: Ice fishing rods can be paired with various types of reels, including spinning reels, inline reels, and fly reels, depending on the angler's preference and the type of fish they are targeting.
Line Guides: Ice fishing rods have line guides, typically made of ceramic or other low-friction materials, to ensure smooth line movement and reduce freezing of the line in extremely cold conditions.
Handles: Many ice fishing rods feature comfortable and non-slip handles, which are essential for maintaining a firm grip, even with cold and wet hands or while wearing gloves.
Sensitivity: Ice fishing requires a high level of sensitivity to detect subtle bites and movements in the water. Ice fishing rods are designed to be highly sensitive so that anglers can feel even the smallest nibbles from fish.
Portability: These rods are compact and easy to transport, making them suitable for anglers who need to move between multiple fishing holes on the ice.
Specific Styles: There are specialized ice fishing rod styles, such as tip-up rods and jigging rods, each designed for different ice fishing techniques.Tip-up rods are used with tip-up devices to suspend baited hooks in the water, while jigging rods are for actively working lures and baits.
Species Targeting: Ice fishing rods are designed for various species, including panfish, trout, walleye, pike, and more. The choice of rod often depends on the specific type of fish an angler is pursuing.

In summary, ice fishing rods are crucial tools for anglers who enjoy the unique and challenging sport of ice fishing. These specialized rods are designed to withstand the harsh winter conditions and provide the sensitivity and strength needed to catch fish through holes in the ice.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ice fishing rods on the market

Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing Reel & Rod Combo

Shakespeare

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ugly StikGX2 is the next generation of Ugly Stik that combines the heritage and tradition of the original while maintaining the strength and durability Ugly Stiks are known for. Ugly Stik GX2 rods offer better balance for lighter feel, improved components and eye catching cosmetics for a more modern look

Size 20 spinning reel suited for ice applications
Ported aluminum spool
Genuine ugly Stik blank with clear tip design
Twist-lock reel seat with EVA handles
One-piece stainless steel guides
Ugly StikGX2 spinning rods
20 size spinning reel with 1 ball bearing

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this rod really 26 feet long? Seems like it would be hard to handle in an ice shack
Answer:	150-6.2:1 150hg-7.4:1
Question:	I’m trying to order a ultra light do you still carry them because it pops up as light in my cart and medium light shows up as medium heavy
Answer:	Mine says "WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee" every time I make a cast.
Question:	Is the reel for both right and Left handed
Answer:	A Daiwa BG 3000 is approximately 375.00 MYR or 90.00 US Dollars
Question:	What is the length of the rod
Answer:	2500

Product features

Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing Reel & Rod Combo

Ugly Stik GX2 is the next generation of Ugly Stik that combines the heritage and tradition of the original while maintaining the strength and durability Ugly Stiks are known for. Ugly Stik GX2 rods offer better balance for lighter feel, improved components, and eye catching cosmetics for a more modern look.

13 FISHING - Tickle Stick - Ice Fishing Rods

13 Fishing

Based on 258 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Tickle Stick’s PC2 (Parallel Composite Construction) linear fibers allowed 13 designers to create a completely flat tip which does two things: It drastically increases the angler’s ability to detect ascending and descending strikes to levels never before possible with current ice fishing technology. The flat tip also adds extreme rigidity to the blank by preventing the rod from rolling over resulting in perfect hook-sets every time.

PC2 Flat Tip Blank Construction
PC2 Flat Tip Blank Construction
Hi-Vis Tip
Custom Evolve Reel Seat with Hand Selected 3A Portuguese Cork
ALPS Thin Wire Guides

User questions & answers

Question:	In Amazon's size chart it states (Large) can you tell me the dimensions for Large
Answer:	The X has a 6.6:1 ratio. The X-Hs has a 7.3:1 The Hs stands for high speed
Question:	Is this a lite or a super ultra lite
Answer:	If your looking at this model you want the revo4 x-w 5:4:1 gear ratio I suggest you go to abu's website to see the reels and gear ratios
Question:	How long is a large
Answer:	It will work with just about any brand casting rod.
Question:	Will this work for a gost reel
Answer:	I just received my 151XG. It is made in Malaysia.

Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod Pole Gear Equipment for Walleye Perch Crappie Pike Trout

Based on 79 reviews Check latest price

Light,strong and sensitive;ONE YEAR WARRANTY - We offer 1 year warranty and full money back guarantee.Just feel free to contact seller if there is anything wrong with the Fishing Rod,we will solve your problem as soon as possible.
Graphite rod blanks,blank through handle construction
Lightweight and durable aluminum oxide guides,Line flows effortlessly through stainless guides
Solid cork handle for a sure grip,sized and shaped for comfort,feel and to match each model
24”-Medium Light Power-Rod Weight 2.2oz / 30”-Medium Power-Rod Weight 2.3oz/ 32”-Medium Heavy Power-Rod Weight 2.4oz

User questions & answers

Question:	Looking into buying the 30 inch rod. Is it a medium or medium light rods. Item description and buying choice size is misleading
Answer:	Yes, this is a right hand retrieve. Our listing reads: "Shimano Cardiff Baitcasting Reel 4+1 Ball Bearings (5.2:1), 14 Pounds/250 Yards, Right Hand ...B003CTMY96". Hope this helps!
Question:	is the 32 inch medium light
Answer:	They are quite different. The Abu Garcia is better suited for saltwater applications, because it has stronger drags, greater line capacity, and considerably faster retrieve(Abu-Garcia 6.3:1, Cardiff 5.2:1. I prefer the Abu Garcia personally. The Shimano has 11 pounds of drag, the Abu has 15. Big difference when fishing deeper than 80 feet.
Question:	Is this a spinning pole or a casting pole
Answer:	200 series are right handed “reel with right hand” 201 series are left handed” reel with left hand
Question:	wanting to purchase but concerned what action the 32 inch length is
Answer:	I use main braid and add about a ten foot fluro leader. However it depends what gear ratio you bought and what you are using the reel for. For the 7.4.1 I use 30 lb braid 12-14 lb fluro leader. I use this for all my jig set ups, rattle traps, spinner/ chatter bait ect 8.5.1 I’d use 50-65 lb braid for topwater frogs and for pitching and flipping into grass and pads. Also a heavier leader for clearer water but still to do the same technique17-20 pound fluro or 20 lb mono for a top water spook, popper or whopper plopper Any gear ratios 6.3..1 and under I use for cranking which then I sometimes use straight fluro 12-14 lb for 1/4- 3/8 oz square bills anything heavier use 15-17 lb fluro However this is all opinionated, every fisherman will tell you something different, however hopefully this helps. Good luck great reel for the price!
Question:	Return policy
Answer:	I have no idea. Nevertheless it is a great reel.
Question:	Can I carry this on the airplane
Answer:	Shimano low profile reels ending with 01 are left hand retrieve.
Question:	Since an email never got answered maybe this will, can I purchases replacement latches
Answer:	I have pulled in steelhead on mine using 20# braid and cranks. The reel performed admirably
Question:	Is this robust enough for check-in bag on a flight? I’m flying US domestic, but the Bazuka rodcase would cost me $200/way now
Answer:	You could rig this reel in a broomstick and it will perform perfectly fine, I suggest spool it with #20-#30 braid and use a leader. It’s a great reel!

Product features

Flambeau Rod Storage

Flambeau Rod Cases are designed to quickly and conveniently safeguard your gear for transportation or storage. The better option than the corner of your garage, our Rod Storage also serves as the perfect solution for those who like to keep a varied selection of rods protected in the trunk of their car for that sudden urge to fish.

Flambeau Rod Bunk Box

Perfect for storing the bass and panfish setup of two rods for each
Designed to hold two-piece rods disassembled: Fits 6'-6" rods along the sides and 6' or smaller rods in the center
Interior storage dimensions for rod sections: 40.5" and 42.25" alleys
“Bunk” design allows for the reels to remain suspended and attached to the rods
Integrated oversized handle
Ample storage room for additional gear
4 foam inserts
Polycarbonate latches
Ribbed interior with variable configuration options

Flambeau Bazuka Rod Case

Holds up to 6'-6" rods
5" Diameter, Telescopes from 63" - 87" Long
Contoured, blow-molded construction makes the Bazuka virtually indestructible – won’t bend, crush, or break
Hinged door makes it easy to load and unload
Molded-in handle for maximum durability
Completely lockable for added security
Foam padded at both ends for protection
Airline approved

Flambeau Bazuka Pro Rod Case

Large diameter case holds numerous rods for extended trips
Perfect for saltwater rods and other rods with oversized guides 6" Diameter, Telescopes from 73" - 102" Long
Contoured, blow-molded construction makes the Bazuka virtually indestructible – won’t bend, crush, or break.
Hinged door makes it easy to load and unload
Molded-in handle for maximum durability
Completely lockable for added security
Foam padded at both ends for protection
Airline approved

About Flambeau Outdoors

As a family owned company from its foundation in 1947, that very philosophy remains the backbone of our brand and serves as the origin story of our logo—shared memories hunting and fishing by the Sauey family under sunrises over the Flambeau River. Over 73 years later, our company remains devoted to providing quality fishing products that are more than just standalone tackle storage solutions—we provide a legacy as a heritage brand that stands behind its product as the sportsman's and sportswoman's constant partner in the outdoors.

Berkley Cherrywood Ice Fishing Spinning Combo

Pure Fishing

Based on 216 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Berkley CWIS30M Cherrywood Combo 30-Inch M Rod and Reel. This product is a durable and designed for ice fishing applications. Provided by Berkley.

Ultra Light
Provided by Berkley
Ice Combos made for ice fishing applications

User questions & answers

Question:	I need a small pole for getting pinfish on my kayak. Would this rod and reel work for that
Answer:	I wouldn't. It has an aluminum frame and plastic shell which helps. There are carbontex drag washers you can get to replace the factory drag washers. The gears are metal. At least one of the gears is brass. Some of the bushings are plastic. There is some but not enough water resistance for the bearings which will not take the salt water abuse. There are faster half-ceramic bearings you can get. You would have to freshwater rinse the whole reel then possibly relube the bearings after each use in saltwater. It's better to get a reel that's made for saltwater.
Question:	pre spooled
Answer:	Handle of SLX151 is on left side.
Question:	Can i catch a pike on this
Answer:	Yes there are. See the attached link below. I bought this power handle from Tackle World, great handle. Much better than the little one this reel comes with. Check out http://tackleworld.com/jw-power-handle-for-small-shimano-low-profile-baitcast-reels/
Question:	Will this be stiff enough to work with a jawjacker
Answer:	My son said that should be fine. It’s a bait caster but with heavier bearings.

Fenwick Eagle Ice Fishing Spinning Rod , Black, Cork , 32" - Medium Heavy - 1pc

Fenwick

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Fenwick® Eagle® rod series feature moderate action blanks built from solid carbon for increased sensitivity and durability and lightweight stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts for less friction.

Solid carbon blanks for increased sensitivity and durability
Ergonomic reel seat design
Lightweight stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts
Premium burled cork handle

13 FISHING - Infrared Ice Rod - 40" MH (Medium Heavy) - I2-40M , Black

13 FISHING

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

13 Fishing Infrared Big Game Ice Fishing Rod - The Infrared Ice Fishing Rod is a solid fiberglass rod that has been designed specifically for big game fish. The Infrared Big Game Rod features stainless steel guides w/ polished insert and an Evolve seamless reel seat.

Durable Fiberglass Blank
Stainless Steel Guides with High Polish Inserts
Custom Evolve Reel Seat
0
0

St. Croix Rods Legend Xtreme Casting Rod

St. Croix

Based on 87 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mojo Ice gets a face-lift for 2020. Sporting a new carbon dust blank and flat finish reel seat, this series retains the proprietary custom reel seat and split-grip handle you've come to love. Suited for a variety of fishing styles and techniques for panfish, trout, walleye, pike and lake trout, these cosmetic upgrades will surely enhance your fishing experience.

Precision-taper solid carbon blank.
Premium split-grip cork/EVA handle.
Custom reel seat ideal for all techniques
Lightweight stainless-steel guides.
5-year warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this rod be used with a bait casting reel
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Is the medium action 28" a spinning rod
Answer:	The slx151 is left handed and is probably 6:1 ratio. The 151HG is 7.2:1

Zebco Dock Demon Spinning Reel or Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, 30-Inch Durable Fiberglass Rod, QuickSet Anti-Reverse Fishing Reel

Zebco

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Durable Solid-Core 30-inch Z-Glass Rod
Comfortable EVA Handle
Pre-spooled with 6-lb line
Dial-adjustable drag

User questions & answers

Question:	Does.it prevent them from reeling it back in the wrong way. Look as this is for a 5 yr old. The point and cast only reel one way.. Trying to prevent
Answer:	The reel can either be set to run one way or both ways, as desired. Basically a regular reel. Great for first time fishing. For a child casting I think the Deluxe version is better. It is slightly longer and that helps a lot. Also still pretty cheap too.
Question:	Could you separate reel from rod
Answer:	Yes you take off the reel.
Question:	Is this for ice fishing
Answer:	Yes it can. Will be trying it on some jaw-jackers this ice season. Did find them cheaper priced ($10) at Walmart.
Question:	Never really fished but taking kids to stocked pond this summer and am buying this basic rod. At the very minimal, what else do I need to buy
Answer:	It's a great little rod- we just took it out this weekend. You'll still need hooks, weights, bobbers and bait. A pair of needle nosed pliers to put the weights on would be good. I'd also grab an extra spool or two of line- my kids were out fishing, too, and although I have fished many times over the years, they were less patient than they could have been, and snarled the line a few times (once spectacularly so). I didn't need a new spool, but I can imagine if they're going to fish a lot this summer that you might need extra line and scissors to cut any tangles they create. Amazon has a cute tackle box called the South Bend Wormgear Tackle Box that had a lot of what you need (less line and bait). It comes in blue and pink(!) in case your kid's a girl (or just likes pink). Have fun. We had a really good time this past weekend with it, and we did catch fish! Our best was about an 8-inch bass.

Product features

Zebco Dock Demon Spinning Reel

There’s a lot to like about this small but mighty rod and reel combo. The 30-inch solid fiberglass rod is virtually unbreakable and rigid enough to perform. And the spinning reel allows smooth casting. Perfect for all types of fishing. Now appearing at a dock near you.

Fenwick Eagle Ice Fishing Spinning Rod Black, Cork, 30" - Light - 1pc

Pure Fishing

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Solid carbon blanks for increased sensitivity and durability
Ergonomic reel seat design
Lightweight stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts
Premium burled cork handle

Fiblink 2-Piece Portable Travel Ice Fishing Rod 21 Inches Light Power Spinning/Casting Ice Pole

Fiblink

Based on 47 reviews Check latest price

Solid E-glass carbon composite blanks; Light, strong and sensitive; Versatile multispecies rod design great for Walleye, Perch, Trout and Panfish like Crappie, Bluegill and Sunfish.
Stainless steel frames with stainless steel inserts, line flows effortlessly through stainless guides.
Twist-lock reel seat with aluminum alloy screw knob; Ergonomic Grip, sized and shaped for comfort. Exquisite technics, novel design and reliable quality.
It comes with a exquisite thickened cotton gift bag. It's great as a Christmas or birthday present.
We offer 1 year warranty. Just feel free to contact seller if there is anything wrong with the rod, we will solve your problem as soon as possible.

User questions & answers

Question:	so this isn’t a really dope vape
Answer:	They are very comfortable. I've worn mine all day with very little discomfort. I feel like the arch support is more than sufficient. I have plantar fasciitis issues and I was very pleased to be able to wear these and not suffer any pain. I personally recommend them!
Question:	Will either rod fit in a standard size rod holder
Answer:	About 8 1/2 inches from the bottom of the shoe. I am 5 foot 5 inches.
Question:	Does this rod come with reel/line
Answer:	I am not familiar with top mods or soda, but I have used Dream Pairs in various styles and they are true to size. Having a large foot, 10W - 11, I have had to return or give away shoes that didn't fit, but never with Dream Pairs.
Question:	Is the handle real wood
Answer:	I wear a 9 or 91/2 usually. I bought a 91/2 in these and they are too big...😣 Gonna have to reorder and send the others back. They are super cute and well made by the way!!!