10 Best Ice Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

The Mack 45” Heavy Ice Fishing Rod by CLAM is specifically designed for anglers targeting large, hard-fighting fish like lake trout and pike. Its robust 45-inch length combined with a heavy power action provides excellent leverage and strength, essential for battling big fish under the ice. The rod is crafted from graphite, ensuring it is lightweight yet strong, which is crucial for maintaining endurance during long fishing sessions.

One of its standout features is the oversized ice-resistant guides. These help reduce ice buildup significantly, enhancing the rod's performance in extreme cold conditions, which is ideal for dedicated ice anglers who fish outside shelters. The skeletal rod seats enhance sensitivity, allowing anglers to detect even slight movements, crucial when targeting big fish that can be surprisingly subtle in their strikes.

However, its heavy action might not be suitable for all ice fishing scenarios, particularly if you're after smaller species where a lighter touch is beneficial. The rod is also designed as a single piece, which can limit portability compared to multi-piece rods, making it less convenient for anglers who travel frequently or have limited storage space. The rod’s handle is made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate with a pistol grip type, which offers comfort but might not suit everyone’s ergonomic preferences.

This rod is a solid choice for serious adult ice anglers targeting larger fish in harsh conditions, but it may not be as versatile for those seeking a rod for different types of ice fishing experiences.

The Mack Spinning Rod 40" med-Heavy (JMS40MH) by CLAM is designed for ice fishing, particularly targeting big fish such as salmon and trout. With a length of 40 inches, it provides a good balance between maneuverability and reach. The medium-heavy power and action are suitable for handling larger, more aggressive fish, offering a strong backbone that can withstand significant tension, which is crucial for ice fishing conditions.

Made from graphite, the rod is lightweight at only 5.6 ounces and offers sensitivity to detect subtle bites, but still strong enough to handle the fight from big fish. The skeletal rod seats enhance sensitivity, allowing anglers to feel even the slightest movements underwater. Additionally, the oversized guides are a practical feature that helps reduce ice build-up, making it more efficient for fishing in cold environments.

The rod features a full wells graphite handle, providing a comfortable and firm grip, which is essential when handling the rod in icy conditions. However, while the handle material ensures durability, some users may find it less warm compared to cork or rubber alternatives. The one-piece design adds to its robustness but might make it less convenient for transport compared to multi-piece rods. This rod is best suited for adult anglers looking for a reliable, medium-heavy rod for ice fishing, especially those targeting larger fish species.

The Shakespeare Fuel Ice Fishing Reel and Spinning Rod Combo is designed with a 25-inch red translucent solid glass rod, making it suitable for ice fishing in confined spaces. The ultralight power classification is ideal for targeting smaller fish, like panfish, commonly found under ice. With a blend of materials, the rod seems durable and able to withstand cold conditions, essential for ice fishing trips.

The rod's EVA foam handle offers a comfortable and firm grip, an important factor when fishing in icy environments where hands can get cold and slippery. Equipped with stainless steel guides and inserts, this rod promises good durability and resistance to corrosion, which is crucial when constantly exposed to water and ice.

The accompanying ultralight spinning reel comes pre-spooled with monofilament line, which is convenient for users who prefer a ready-to-go setup. Its ambidextrous design and lightweight build make it accessible for all anglers, whether right or left-handed. However, the reel's line capacity (20/200) and line weight (2 lb) are more suited to catching smaller fish, which may not be ideal for those targeting larger species.

This ice fishing rod and reel combo is best suited for beginners or casual ice fishers who seek a reliable, basic setup primarily for catching smaller fish under the ice.