10 Best Ice Fishing Rods 2026 in the United States

The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Ice Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is a well-rounded option for ice fishing enthusiasts. This rod is 27 inches long, making it a suitable size for maneuvering in tight ice-fishing shelters. With a medium-light power rating, it offers a good balance of sensitivity and strength, which is ideal for targeting various fish species in ice fishing environments.

The St. Croix Custom Ice Fishing Rod is a 28-inch rod designed specifically for ice fishing, making it a solid choice if you're targeting species like walleye, trout, or perch through the ice. Its length is quite standard for ice fishing, allowing good control in tight spaces. The rod is rated as light power with a fast action, which means it's very sensitive and quick to respond—ideal for feeling subtle bites under the ice but better suited for smaller to medium fish rather than heavy, large catches. Made from durable carbon blanks, the rod offers a nice balance of strength and sensitivity, so you can feel even the slightest nibble without sacrificing toughness. The hi-vis tip is a helpful feature for spotting bites visually, especially in low light or murky conditions, which is common in ice fishing. Another comfort plus is the split-grip cork handle that provides a firm but comfortable hold during long hours on the ice. The rod also uses recoil guides that help the rod perform smoothly when bent, improving casting and hook setting.

The 13 Fishing Tickle Stick Gen 3 is a 23-inch ice fishing rod designed with a super ultra light (SUL) power rating, making it ideal for detecting subtle bites from cold water fish. Its compact length is great for ice fishing where space can be limited, and the rod's ultra light power means it excels at handling smaller fish with precision. The PC2 Flat-Tip Blank construction enhances sensitivity, allowing anglers to feel even the faintest nibble, complemented by a hi-visibility tip that improves bite detection in low-light conditions. The rod features a tickle stick tip action, which is soft and flexible, perfect for delicate presentations needed in ice fishing.