Yes, you can use a regular fishing rod for ice fishing , but it’s not an ideal solution. Ice fishing poles are much shorter than regular rods on average. ... Hardwater fishing is very different from warm season fishing in many ways, and therefore requires using different gear.
What is the best length of ice fishing rod?
Rod Length: Consider a rod between 30 inches and 42 inches . If your ice fishing techniques usually produce an occasional larger fish, consider a 36 inch, or maybe even bump up to a 42 inch. If your technique is pretty dialed into a particular range, then you are probably safe with a 30 to 32 inch rod.
Why are ice fishing rods so small?
Ice fishing rods are so small because they are designed specifically for use in ice . For ice fishing, you need to be close to the hole, so a standard open-water pole will be too long. You also need a more sensitive rod for ice fishing, so the small size of ice fishing rods helps with feeling the fish.
How big are ice fishing rods?
Most anglers choose ice fishing rods that average 24 to 32 inches in length . This rod length is common when ice fishing for panfish, stocked trout and walleye. Generally, ultra-light or light action rods with soft, fast action tips are preferred.
Is a longer or shorter fishing rod better?
A rod’s length affects casting distance, accuracy, and hook set leverage. Longer rods (over 7 feet) will cast farther than shorter rods of the same power and action, and shorter (<under 7 feet) rods will be more accurate. Longer rods also give you more leverage on the hook set, as they take up more line while swinging.
What type of rod is best for ice fishing?
- Best Overall: Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2. ...
- Best Budget: Schooley Spring Bobber Pole Package. ...
- Best for Panfish: Abu Garcia Veritas 3.0 Ice Spinning Rod. ...
- Best for Trout: Fenwick Elite Tech Ice Fishing Spinning Rod. ...
- Best for Walleye: Frabill Combo Straightline Bro.
Is ice fishing easier than regular fishing?
But with a little thought, planning and the right equipment, finding and catching fish through the ice can be surprisingly easy – and incredibly fun! ... But, make no mistake, ice fishing requires thought, planning and preparation not only for success and comfort but for personal safety as well.
How do you pick a rod length?
A short (6 feet or less) rod is ideal if you want to make short, accurate casts. When pinpoint accuracy is less critical, a long rod (over 7 feet) is the way to go. Dingy or dirty water and heavy cover are two situations where short-range accuracy is part of the recipe for success, and a shorter rod can really shine.
How do you know what size fishing rod to get?
Rods can range on the tiny end from 4 feet to the gigantic end of 14 feet, but most bass fishing rods tend to run between 6 and 8 feet measured tip to butt. The general rule of rod length selection is this: shorter rods cast shorter distances, and longer rods cast longer distances.
How do I choose the right action for my fishing rod?
A fast action rod will bend in the top third or less of the blank, a medium or moderate action rod will bend in the top half or so, and a slow action rod will bend starting in the lower third of the rod and into the handle. Action, simply put, is where a rod bends.
What is a ice fishing rod?
At a Glance: Ice Rods
Ice fishing rods offer all the features of open-water rods but in shorter versions designed for anglers who target fish offshore in ice huts rather than motor boats or kayaks. The harsh elements of hard water fishing require strong, often heavy equipment.
What kind of rod do you use for pike fishing?
A great pike fishing rod is usually 8-9 ft long and has a fast action with medium or medium-heavy power. This gives you good leverage and hooking ability when the pike strikes. Depending on the size of lures you intend to use, the casting weight of the rod may vary.
What is power for fishing rod?
Power is the amount of pressure an angler has to apply to make a rod bend . Heavier action rods require more pressure to bend, while light action rods bend much easier. Rod manufacturers categorize rods as light, medium, or heavy.
What is a 7 6 rod good for?
The 7’6′ Medium-Heavy is the most versatile rod in its class. We designed it for pulling rattle-traps through the grass . If you want to throw a light Carolina rig, a small swim bait or a mid-Depth crankbait, this rod will get the job done. This is one rod you will want to keep on the deck at all times.
What is a 6 foot 6 rod good for?
Rods under 6’6” are ideal for trout, panfish, and younger anglers . Longer rods over 7′ are popular for some bass fishing techniques such as using swimbaits and crankbaits and longer rods are also the go-to choice for anglers targeting salmon and steelhead.
What is a 7 3 heavy rod good for?
7’3′′ Medium/Heavy Casting Rod Specs
SUGGESTED TECHNIQUES: This all purpose rod is great for a large multitude of techniques . From Texas rig to Jigs to large Spinner baits, and everything in between.
