The best ice fishing rods will have a comfortable handle and durable design to withstand repeated casts and countless hours of fishing. If you spend a lot of time on the ice, it’s worth investing in a high-quality, durable rod that will help you catch more fish on a consistent basis.
To help you find the best ice fishing rods for your needs, we’ve turned to reviews from real customers on Amazon who have purchased and used these products for themselves. These best-selling items not only have near-perfect ratings, but they also have countless glowing reviews describing why they’re so great.
Keep reading to shop the best ice fishing rods on the market.
Our Editor’s Best Ice Fishing Rods Reviews
- Red translucent solid glass rod with EVA foam handle and graphite rings
- Stainless steel guides with stainless steel inserts
- 20 size ultralight spinning reel pre-spooled with line
- BERKLEY BIG GAME 8’ SPINNING ROD, MODERATE FAST ACTION: The Big Game series has the tensile strength required to help you reel in the big one. The perfect combination of durability and responsiveness.
- 12-30LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM HEAVY POWER: Lure rating of 1-4 oz. Designed for increased reactivity that'll help get the job done.
- FIBERGLASS BLANK CONSTRUCTION: The tubular fiberglass blank construction helps you reel in even the toughest fish. Weighing in at 13.2 oz and paired with durable components, it's a sturdy rod that won't break the bank.
- 6 DURABLE GUIDES: Titanium Oxide guides with titanium oxide inserts give this rod added strength and control when in action and a smoother cast every time.
- DEPENDABLE REEL SEAT: Graphite reel seat provides added balance to any sturdy rod, creating a stable and dependable anchor point for the reel. Type-A EVA rod handle maximizes comfort to reduce hand strain.
- BUILT FOR BIG FISH & TOUGH FIGHTS – Designed with a heavy backbone, this rod provides exceptional strength and power, making it ideal for targeting trophy-sized lake trout, pike, and walleye.
- SENSITIVE & RESPONSIVE SKELETAL ROD SEATS – Engineered for maximum bite detection, allowing anglers to feel even the lightest strikes from aggressive fish.
- OVERSIZED GUIDES FOR COLD-WEATHER PERFORMANCE – Prevents ice buildup, ensuring smooth line flow and reliable casting when fishing outdoors in freezing conditions.
- 40” MEDIUM-HEAVY ACTION FOR MAXIMUM CONTROL – Optimized for power and durability, this rod offers enhanced leverage to handle hard-fighting fish beneath thick ice.
- PERFECT FOR SERIOUS ICE ANGLERS – Whether inside a shelter or fishing in the open, this rod delivers unmatched strength, sensitivity, and durability for extreme winter fishing.
- BERKLEY CHERRYWOOD HD 7’ SPINNING ROD, FAST ACTION: The Cherrywood HD series with old school cork handles and remarkable feel make this rod one of a kind. Cork retains heat and is warmer to the touch on those cold mornings out on the water.
- 6-14LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM POWER: Lure rating of 1/8-3/4 oz. Designed for increased reactivity that'll help get the job done.
- HYBRID DESIGN CONSTRUCTION: Provides unmatched sensitivity with the security of blank through handle construction. Lightweight design gives you a level of responsiveness that you've never felt before.
- 6 DURABLE GUIDES: Stainless Steel guides with inserts give this rod added strength and control when in action and a smoother cast every time.
- DEPENDABLE REEL SEAT: Spinning reel seat provides added balance to any lightweight rod, creating a stable and dependable anchor point for the reel. Type-C Cork rod handle maximizes comfort to reduce hand strain.
- BERKLEY BIG GAME 7’ CASTING ROD, MODERATE FAST ACTION: The Big Game series has the tensile strength required to help you reel in the big one. The perfect combination of durability and responsiveness.
- 12-30LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM HEAVY POWER: Lure rating of 1-4 oz. Designed for increased reactivity that'll help get the job done.
- FIBERGLASS BLANK CONSTRUCTION: The tubular fiberglass blank construction helps you reel in even the toughest fish. Weighing in at 11.6 oz and paired with durable components, it's a sturdy rod that won't break the bank.
- 7 DURABLE GUIDES: Titanium Oxide guides with titanium oxide inserts give this rod added strength and control when in action and a smoother cast every time.
- DEPENDABLE REEL SEAT: Graphite reel seat provides added balance to any sturdy rod, creating a stable and dependable anchor point for the reel. Type-B EVA rod handle maximizes comfort to reduce hand strain.
- UGLY STIK 6’6” GX2 SPINNING FISHING ROD AND REEL SPINNING COMBO: The next-gen Ugly Stik, featuring better balance and improved components. From the makers of the #1 rod series in the world. Right/Left handle position.
- UGLY TECH CONSTRUCTION: 2-piece, Ugly Tech construction combines graphite and fiberglass, for a strong, yet sensitive rod. Includes 7 year warranty on rod. Gear ratio of 5.2:1 provides smooth operation and mechanical advantage.
- SIZE 35 REEL: 4 ball bearing system for smooth operation. Features 6 guides to provide durability and eliminate insert pop-outs during rough treatment.
- INSTANT ANTI-REVERSE SYSTEM with one-way clutch for quick hook sets. Reel features compression bail springs for longer lifespan, with machined double-anodized spool. EVA handle balances durability and comfort.
- 6-15LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM POWER: Ugly Stik Clear Tip delivers strength and sensitivity. Mono Capacity yd/lb: 240/6 200/8 175/10.
- TELESCOPIC DESIGN: Compact and retractable fishing rod perfect for ice fishing, easily collapses for transport and storage while maintaining durability
- VERSATILE USE: Specially engineered for ice fishing and cold weather conditions, ideal for catching trout, walleye, and perch
- ERGONOMIC HANDLE: Comfortable grip design reduces hand fatigue during extended fishing sessions in winter conditions
- PORTABLE COMBO: Complete set includes both rod and reel, providing everything needed for immediate ice fishing action
- ALL-WEATHER PERFORMANCE: Constructed with materials that maintain smooth operation in freezing temperatures
- Mini Ultra-light Ice Fishing Rod - 0.5 and compact designed carbon ice fishing rod. The closed length is less than 10.5 inch, can take this travel fishing rod anywhere and enjoy fishing on your vacation or trip!
- Convenient & Quick Assembly - Simply extend each section starting at the tip until it stops. After fishing, collapse by starting at the bottom with a twist - you can even leave your reel/line/hooks/lure attached! Keep it in your car for quick access next time.
- Pocket Telescopic Fishing Rod, 25.6 Inch Carbon Mini Ultra-Light Ice Fishing Rod Cork Handle, Travel Fishing Pole for Saltwater Freshwater Fishing tool for Man
- Lightweight - Easy and convenient to fit in car trunk, boat hatch or your backpack, enjoy fishing whenever and wherever.Fishing reel (NOT included) can be firmly mounted on the rod.
- Winter Fishing Tackle Tool - This fishing rod works great for trout fishing, bass fishing, kayak fishing, and more.A wonderful tool for fishing enthusiast.
- FIBERGLASS BLANK - The ice fishing rod mainly made of fiberglass blank, flexible soft and moderately hard, not easy to break, and has strong pulling force.
- HIGH VISIBILITY - With a bright red bite detection tip, you see the slightest bite easily even in low light conditions. The red tip detects the subtle bite and visually transmit it to you quickly.
- SENSITIVE & DURABLE - Outfitted with stainless steel guide with polish inserts, corrosion-resistant, rust-proof and smooth, help to minimize friction to improve sensitivity.
- ERGONOMIC HANDLE - Premium cork handles and unique shape design for a comfortable grip. Close to the grip, non-slip and sweat-proof, and hold tightly without fatigue.
- PORTABLE DESIGN - Our ice fishing rods are 22 inch long when assembled, about 16 inch long when packed for easy carry and transport. Great fishing gifts for men fishermen.
- UNRIVALED TECHNOLOGY & PERFORMANCE - Built with precision materials, the St. Croix Custom Ice Fishing Rod is engineered to reset the bar for performance on the ice
- HI-VIS TIP FOR VISUAL BITE DETECTION - The hi-vis tip on this carbon ice rod provides visual detection, allowing you to see the tip react to bites
- DURABLE CARBON BLANKS - These ice rods feature durable carbon blanks that provide unmatched strength and sensitivity so you'll feel every bite
- REC RECOIL GUIDES - Recoil guides smoothly return to position after the rod bends for a fine-tuned performance
- SPLIT-GRIP CORK HANDLE - With comfortable split-grip cork handles, the St. Croix Custom Ice Fishing Rods deliver all-day comfort and precision engineering to haul in more fish out on the ice this season
Best Ice Fishing Rods Buying Guide
Before choosing the best ice fishing rod you should consider following options:
1. Strength: Fishing in ice is not like fishing in water. The ice will be your only support and the strength of your rod matters a lot.
You should choose a rod that is strong enough to support your weight and withstand any accidental breakage.
A good ice fishing rod should be able to hold as much as 15-20 pounds of weight. If you are planning to go ice fishing with your friends, then make sure to choose a rod that is strong enough to hold all of you at the same time.
2. Line Control: It is equally important to have good control over the line when you are ice fishing. It is not uncommon to lose the line in the ice and it can be very frustrating to find it.
If you are planning to fish in a place where the ice is rough, then getting good line control will be even more important. A good ice fishing rod should have enough backbone and a smooth tip.
The rod should have enough backbone to hold the weight of the fish and the tip should be smooth enough to allow the line to slide easily through it.
3. Action: The action of the ice fishing rod is extremely important if you are planning to do jigging. Jigging is a technique where you are trying to attract fish and then reeling the lure slowly so that the fish bites it.
The fish will then be hooked and you can then lift it out of the water. This is a different technique from standard ice fishing where you drop the bait in the water and then wait for the fish to take it.
The action of the rod should be smooth enough to allow the line to slide through it and then pick up the fish when it bites.
4. Length: The length of the ice fishing rod matters a lot. The longer the rod, the more leverage you will have and the easier it will be to fish. On the other hand, a shorter rod will allow you to fish in smaller spaces.
The longer the rod, the more leverage you will have but you will also have to walk further to cast the line. The length of the rod also depends on the space you have to fish and the type of fish you are planning to catch.
5. Taper: The taper of the ice fishing rod is extremely important if you are planning to fish with a jig. The tip of the ice fishing rod should be soft enough to allow the line to slide through it and lift the fish out of the water.
Too much backbone would make it difficult to lift the fish out of the water. On the other hand, a tip that is too stiff wouldn’t allow the line to slide through it.
The taper of the rod should be smooth enough to lift the fish out of the water and then slide the line through it.
6. Strength: While it is important to have a strong rod, it is equally important not to have too much backbone. Too much backbone would make it difficult for you to lift the fish out of the water and then slide the line through the tip.
What else you should know about ice fishing rods
1. What are the different types of ice fishing rods?
The different types of ice fishing rods are:
1) Spinning ice fishing rod
2) Baitcasting ice fishing rod
3) Fly fishing ice rod
4) Ice auger
2. How do I choose the right ice fishing rod for my needs?
There is no definitive answer, as the best ice fishing rod for your needs depends on a variety of factors, including the type of fish you hope to catch, the waters you fish in, and your personal preferences. However, some general tips that may help you choose the right ice fishing rod include:
– Consider the type of fish you hope to catch. Different fish require different tackle, so you’ll need to choose a rod that is suited to the fish you hope to catch.
– Consider the waters you fish in. If you fish in waters that are particularly deep or have a lot of structure, you’ll need a sturdier rod that can handle the extra weight and pressure.
– Consider your personal preferences. Some anglers prefer lighter rods, while others prefer heavier rods. Ultimately, the best ice fishing rod for you is the one that feels the most comfortable and natural in your hands.
3. What are the benefits of using an ice fishing rod?
Some benefits of using an ice fishing rod are that they are usually light and sensitive, which can help you feel bites more easily. They also tend to be shorter than regular fishing rods, which can be helpful when you are trying to fish in a small space.
4. How do I care for my ice fishing rod?
Ice fishing rods should be stored in a cool, dry place when they are not in use. Before using your ice fishing rod, make sure that the guides and reel are clean and free of ice and snow.
5. What are the different types of ice fishing line?
There are two main types of ice fishing line: braided line and monofilament line. Braided line is made of multiple strands of material that are braided together. This type of line is stronger and more durable than monofilament line, but it is also more expensive. Monofilament line is made of a single strand of material, and it is less expensive than braided line.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best ice fishing rods. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best ice fishing rods will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.