How To Chose Ice Fishing Rod

ICE FISHING RODS 101... so you're new to ice fishing and you want to know what kind of rod to get. This has to be one of the most common questions I receive by message.

What are you fishing for??? Is my usual reply. You see just like the open water season these rods are made to meet the requirements for any fish you're after.

The first is weight - heavy, medium, light, ultralight and everywhere in between. Then there is length from short to almost as long as your summer rods.

So how do you choose?

Well consider the behavior and size of the fish. If they're smaller go light, larger go medium or huge go heavy. But for fish like trout, I still like a light or ultralight tip even if they are larger fish. The reason is they sometimes take the lure very light and a soft tip will help you detect bites. This can be the difference between catching fish and not even knowing you're having bites.

Length is impacted by your situation. In a shelter you may have to use shorter rods. Outdoors a longer rod will help you get a better Hookset and make it easier to stay pinned to the fish. A long rod will load up better giving you more ability to keep a constant pressure on the fish. A short rod you'll find it either doubled over or straight with every headshake.

So I think a decent practical rod length is in between 28" to 36". Once they start getting longer than that you'll need special carrying cases. Sure for big lake trout and pike guys are now using 40 to 50 inch rods. If that's your jam then you may want a longer rod as well.

I hope that has and if you want a flat ultralight tip rod with a solid backbone like the 29 inch rod pictured go check out the Alpha 029 rod by @circle_tackle.

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