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Ice Fishing Adventures: Choosing the Right Rod and Reel for Success

True North

Updated: Jan 21


Ice fishing is more than a pastime; it's a unique way to connect with nature  in winter across the frozen lakes of Minnesota and the rest of the northland. After all, you actually get to walk on water!  That’s kinda wild.


So the Travel Star wanted to dig a little deeper into a key ingredient to having a great day on the ice:  Rods and reels.


Whether you're targeting walleye or jigging for panfish, having the right ice fishing rod and reel can make all the difference. From selecting the perfect ice fishing rod and reel to mastering your technique, every detail counts. The right equipment ensures you're not just dropping a line but setting yourself up for a successful day on the ice.


This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ice fishing gear, from the best ice rods to the most effective techniques, ensuring you’re ready to take on your next fishing adventure.


A man with an ice fishing rod



First Things First: Ice Fishing Safety and Conservation


Before cutting a hole and dropping a line, safety is the top priority when ice fishing. Always verify the ice thickness, as it varies across lakes, and carry essential safety gear such as ice picks, a rope, and a flashlight. Let someone know your location and planned route for added security.

In Minnesota, a general rule of thumb is 4 inches for ice fishing and foot travel, 5–7 inches for snowmobiles and small ATVs, 9–12 inches for cars, and 13–17 inches for trucks.


Additionally, practice conservation by following sustainable fishing practices, like catch-and-release, especially for  some of the most exciting species like brown trout and walleye, to ensure the future of the sport and its wildlife.


With safety and sustainability in mind, let's dive into the gear and techniques that will help you make the most of your ice fishing experience.


A safety guideline from Minnesota DNR


What Makes Ice Fishing Unique?


“Hard water fishing” (yep, that’s a phrase for “ice fishing” that’s also a cool podcast) requires the perfect combination of skill, patience, and resilience against the elements. Unlike open-water fishing, ice anglers face freezing temperatures and the need to drill through a half a foot of ice (or more) to have a chance for a catch. Getting to (literally) walk on water, hanging with friends in tiny house with a frozen floor, puzzling out a strategy to find and catch fish swimming beneath you, and just experiencing the tranquility of a winter “waterscape” that’s out of this world - make ice fishing a must-try adventure.


A man ice fishing



The Anatomy of an Ice Fishing Rod


An ice fishing rod

Ice fishing rods are typically designed to withstand cold conditions and provide optimal performance in compact spaces. Typically 24 to 36 inches long, these rods are lightweight yet durable, with fast-action tips for precise bite detection. Solid glass or carbon blanks are popular choices, ensuring strength and flexibility in freezing temperatures.




Choosing the Best Ice Rod for Your Target Fish


The type of fish you are targeting determines your rod choice.

  • For Walleye: Use a medium-action rod with extra-fast tips for setting the hook.

  • For Panfish: Light or ultralight rods with softer tips ensure sensitivity for finicky panfish.

  • For Pike and Lake Trout: Stiffer rods with higher power ratings handle big fish effectively.


The Best Ice Fishing Rod Brands to Enhance Your Experience


Selecting the right ice fishing rod is key to achieving successful ice fishing and enhancing your overall experience on the ice. The best rods are designed to handle freezing temperatures, improve bite detection, and cater to various species of fish. Whether you’re targeting walleye, panfish, or lake trout, these top brands offer durable and high-performing gear for every type of ice angler:


St. Croix Ice Rods


A St. Croix ice fishing rod
St. Croix Premier Ice Combo

Known for their extra-fast action and high sensitivity, St. Croix's exquisitely designed ice rods are a favorite among serious anglers. They feature solid carbon and technique-specific designs to help you tackle even the most finicky panfish or big predators like pike and lake trout.





Fenwick Ice Series

A Fenwick ice fishing rod
Fenwick Eagle ice Rod

Fenwick delivers durable, light-action rods perfect for catching trophy panfish and bluegill. Their solid glass blanks withstand harsh conditions, making them an excellent choice for anglers seeking reliable performance in freezing temperatures.





13 Fishing

13 Fishing ice rod
13 Fishing Snitch Ice Rod

Renowned for their innovative designs, 13 Fishing offers custom ice rods equipped with advanced features like spring bobbers and fast tips. Their rods cater to both beginner and experienced anglers looking to optimize their ice fishing techniques.




An Ugly Stik ice fishing rod
Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Spinning Rod

Ugly Stik


A trusted name in fishing, Ugly Stik provides tough, ultralight rods with unparalleled durability. Their ice rods are perfect for anglers who want high performance without breaking the bank.







Clam Outdoors

A Calm Outdoors ice fishing rod
Clam Outdoors Ice Sniper Combo



Designed with ice-specific needs in mind, Clam Outdoors delivers rods to show finesse and power. Their tungsten jigs and soft tips are perfect for detecting subtle bites in deep water.







Investing in a high-quality rod from these brands can enhance your fishing experience in your next ice adventure, ensuring comfort, precision, and success while fishing in the Brainerd Lake area, Nisswa, or beyond.


Table Summary of Ice Fishing Rods

Ice Fishing Rod Brand

Best For

Key Features

Pros

Cons

St. Croix Ice Rod

Multi-species fishing (panfish to pike)

Solid carbon blank, ultra-light to heavy action options, fast tip

Durable, sensitive, smooth action, wide range of sizes for various species

Premium price

Shimano Ice Rod

Walleye, perch, and panfish

High-quality carbon composite, medium to light action, durable handle

Lightweight, excellent sensitivity, comfortable grip

Can be stiffer than other rods, which may limit versatility for finicky fish

Fenwick HMX Ice Rod

Panfish and walleye

Sensitive graphite, medium action, cork handle

Affordable, high sensitivity, great balance for light action fishing

Slightly heavier than some other models

Ugly Stik Ice Rod

Beginner anglers, panfish

Strong fiberglass construction, medium-light to light action

Extremely durable, budget-friendly, highly flexible

May lack sensitivity for deep water or large fish

Clam Ice Rod

Walleye, panfish, and perch

Lightweight, fast tip, custom reel seat

Highly sensitive, good for precise jigging, solid build quality

Limited action options for larger fish

Trophy Series Ice Rod

Trophy fish, including pike and lake trout

Fast action, solid fiberglass or composite construction

Built for strength, solid hook setting power, long-lasting

May not be as flexible for smaller fish or finesse techniques

This table provides a quick reference to help you select the right ice fishing rod for your needs, depending on the species you're targeting, the type of fishing you plan to do, and your experience level.


Reel It In: Selecting the Right Reel for Ice Fishing


Pairing your rod with the right reel is essential for success on the ice. Spinning reels are the most common choice, offering versatility and ease of use. Look for reels with a smooth drag system and spool capacity that suits your target species. Reels designed for ice fishing typically withstand freezing temperatures, ensuring reliable performance.


1. Spinning Reels

Spinning reels are versatile and easy to use, ideal for most ice rods. Their lightweight design works well for targeting species like walleye and perch.


2. Smooth Drag System

A smooth drag is crucial for handling powerful fish runs, preventing line breakage during intense fights.


3. Spool Capacity

Match the reel’s spool capacity to your target fish. Use lighter lines for panfish and heavier lines for pike or lake trout.


4. Ice-Specific Features

Look for reels with anti-icing coatings, cold-weather lubricants, and ergonomic handles for performance in freezing conditions.


5. Inline Reels

Inline reels reduce line twist, making them ideal for jigging smaller lures like tungsten jigs.


6. Durability and Maintenance

Choose a durable reel, clean it after use, and lubricate moving parts regularly for longevity.

With the right reel, you can enhance your performance and make the most of your time on the ice.



An ice fishing rod and reel combo

Top Ice Fishing Techniques to Master


Mastering ice fishing techniques not only enhances your chances of success but also ensures a more enjoyable experience on the ice. Whether you're fishing in the Brainerd Lakes Area, Nisswa, or other prime locations, these techniques cater to various fish species and conditions:

1. Jigging

Jigging is one of the most effective and popular techniques among ice anglers. It involves using tungsten jigs, jigging raps, or other lures to mimic the movements of prey, enticing fish to bite. This technique is especially effective for targeting walleye, panfish, and perch. Use a fast tip rod for quick hook sets and improved bite detection. Adjust your jigging rhythm to match the activity level of the fish, which can vary with water temperature and time of day.


2. Tip-Ups

Tip-ups are essential for monitoring multiple fishing holes at once. These devices are especially useful when targeting larger fish like pike or lake trout, which are often spread out over wide areas. Bait your hook with live minnows or a jig and set the tip-up over the hole. When a fish takes the bait, the flag will pop up, signaling a strike. This hands-free approach allows you to explore different depths and locations simultaneously.


3. Deadsticking

Deadsticking involves presenting live bait or a lure in a stationary position, often just off the bottom of the lake. This passive technique is highly effective for catching walleye, crappie, and other species that respond to subtle movements. Pair this technique with a light-action rod and a sensitive bobber to detect the faintest bites.


4. Drilling Multiple Holes

Drilling multiple holes allows you to cover more ground and identify active fish. Use a flasher or fish finder to locate fish and target specific depths. Move from hole to hole using a variety of lures or jigging techniques until you find where the fish are biting.


5. Using Electronics

Modern ice fishing gear often includes sonar devices like flashers or GPS units. These tools help you pinpoint schools of fish, determine the lake's depth, and monitor the movement of fish below the ice. Combining this data with techniques like jigging and deadsticking can significantly improve your success rate.


6. Adjusting Your Presentation

Fish behavior can vary depending on weather, water clarity, and temperature. Experiment with different lures, colors, and jigging speeds to find what works best. For finicky panfish, use smaller lures like tungsten jigs and a noodle rod for precise control. For larger species, opt for heavier lures and extra-fast action rods to handle the fight.


7. Chumming the Water

Dropping small amounts of bait or food particles into the water can attract fish to your location. This technique is particularly effective for panfish and perch, as they are drawn to the scent and visibility of the bait.


8. Spring Bobbers

Adding a spring bobber to your rod helps detect subtle bites from smaller fish like bluegill and crappie. This small but effective addition enhances your bite detection, ensuring you don’t miss out on light nibbles.


9. Fishing at Optimal Times

Certain times of the day, like dawn and dusk, are more productive for ice fishing. Many fish species, such as walleye and lake trout, are more active during low-light conditions. Plan your outing to align with these peak times for the best results.


10. Using the Right Line

Choosing the correct ice fishing line is crucial for success. Monofilament lines are great for cold temperatures, while braided lines offer durability and sensitivity. Consider the species of fish you're targeting and the water depth when selecting your line.

By mastering these techniques and adapting them to the conditions, you’ll not only improve your ice fishing experience but also enjoy greater success in landing your target species.


A man using a fishing rod


Get Ready for a Thrilling Ice Fishing Adventure in Brainerd Lakes


Ready to drop your line through the ice around Nisswa or elsewhere in the Brainerd Lakes Area and reel in some impressive catches? Whether you're targeting walleye, panfish, or even trophy-sized fish, selecting the perfect ice fishing rod is key to making your ice fishing adventure a success. The right rod paired with an ice fishing reel and line designed to withstand the cold will elevate your fishing experience.


With more than 400 lakes, the Brainerd Lakes Area is one of Minnesota’s top spots for ice fishing, and with the right equipment, your chances of a great day on the ice improve substantially. Ice rods are specially crafted for ice fishing and feature durable materials like solid carbon or glass to ensure your rod can endure the freezing temperatures. Whether you're using a noodle rod for light action or an extra-fast ice rod for aggressive jigging, there’s a custom rod that caters to every angler's preference.


Don’t just fish—go ice fishing in the Brainerd Lakes Area for a world-class experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or learning new skills, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy your winter adventure,  including great lodging, restaurants, outfitters and local shops to visit after your day on the ice. Get your hands on the best ice fishing rods, prepare your tackle with ice fishing line designed for the job, and discover conservation tips to help preserve the fish species for generations to come. So why wait? Grab your gear and head to Brainerd Lakes to make your next ice fishing trip unforgettable!


A man ice fishing


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