Ice Fishing Rods, Reels, and Combos
Your ice fishing rods and reels are some of the most important items in your fishing equipment. The size and weight are determining factors in catching your favorite fish. Explore some of our favorite ice fishing reels, rods, and combos that will start you off on the right foot. To find the best fishing line to go with your new set-up browse here. Chris, our fishing guru and buyer, gives some great tips to get ready for ice fishing so be sure to check it out here so you've got all you need when you are out on the ice.
How to decide what ice fishing rods to buy:
What kind of fisherman are you? Do you go for the prize lake trout or do you prefer an ice chest full of panfish? Do you like to spend your time sitting in your ice fishing shelter or walking around, checking on all your rods? Is jigging an important part of your fishing routine? Your style of fishing is the main factor in what kind of ice fishing rods to buy.
If you hang out sitting in shelters then you'll want a shorter rod. Longer rods are great out in the open because they have a more sensitive tip for jigging. (We highly suggest a up Tip-up when you are jigging to save your hand from all that moving!) If you go for the smaller panfish, like perch, blue gill or crappie, you'll want a lightweight rod. Your medium action rod is best for fish like rainbow or brown trout and a great choice for beginners. When fishing for large fish like lake trout or walleye you'll want a medium heavy rod.
Choosing the best ice fishing rods can seem like a daunting task but just remember, there's no need to sweat the small stuff. Best thing you can do it to try them out and see what works best for you. Buying combos that comes with ice fishing reels and rods together is an excellent way to know your equipment will work well together!
