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Best Custom Ice Fishing Rods (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an exciting way to escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday life, ice fishing is a great choice. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, you’ll need the proper equipment to have a successful and enjoyable day on the lake. One essential piece of gear you should consider investing in is a custom ice fishing rod.

When shopping for a custom ice fishing rod, there are a few factors you should consider before making your purchase. First and foremost, think about the type of fish you’ll be targeting and the style of fishing you’ll be doing. This will help determine the length, power, and action of the rod you need. Additionally, consider the material the rod is made from, as well as the handle and reel seat options available.

Are you tired of using a generic, one-size-fits-all ice fishing rod? Do you want to improve your technique and increase your chances of catching a trophy walleye or perch? A custom ice fishing rod might be exactly what you need! What types of fish can you target with a custom ice fishing rod? How does the length and action of the rod affect your ability to catch fish? Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of investing in a custom ice fishing rod for your next ice fishing adventure.

10 Best Custom Ice Fishing Rods

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for ice fishing due to its customized features that enhance fishing experience in frozen lakes.
2
The product is ideal for ice fishing with a 24" medium spinning rod and reel combo.
3
This product is ideal for ice fishing with its 25" quick action tip and hookset backbone.
4
Ideal for ice fishing with ultra light tackle, featuring carbon forged construction for sensitivity and responsiveness.
5
Ideal for ice fishing due to its sensitive and durable build, allowing for accurate detection and efficient control.
6
Ideal for ice fishing, designed with carbon construction and medium-heavy power for durability and sensitivity on frozen lakes.
7
Ideal for ice fishing enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, sensitive rod with excellent bite detection and quick responsiveness.
8
The product is ideal for ice fishing with its medium-heavy solid carbon blank and split grip handle.
9
Ideal for ice fishing, providing sensitivity and strength while still being lightweight and easy to use.
10
This product is ideal for ice fishing with medium-sized fish.
The product is ideal for ice fishing due to its customized features that enhance fishing experience in frozen lakes.
The product is ideal for ice fishing with a 24" medium spinning rod and reel combo.
This product is ideal for ice fishing with its 25" quick action tip and hookset backbone.
Ideal for ice fishing with ultra light tackle, featuring carbon forged construction for sensitivity and responsiveness.
Ideal for ice fishing due to its sensitive and durable build, allowing for accurate detection and efficient control.
Ideal for ice fishing, designed with carbon construction and medium-heavy power for durability and sensitivity on frozen lakes.
Ideal for ice fishing enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, sensitive rod with excellent bite detection and quick responsiveness.
The product is ideal for ice fishing with its medium-heavy solid carbon blank and split grip handle.
Ideal for ice fishing, providing sensitivity and strength while still being lightweight and easy to use.
This product is ideal for ice fishing with medium-sized fish.

1. St. Croix Rods Custom Ice Fishing Rod

The St. Croix Custom Ice Fishing Rod is a high-performance tool designed to enhance your ice fishing experience. Its advanced technology and precision materials make it stand out from the rest. Built with durable carbon blanks, this ice rod delivers exceptional strength and sensitivity, ensuring you don't miss any bites. Its hi-vis tip allows for visual detection, letting you see the tip's reaction to bites. This feature is especially useful in low-light conditions. The rod's REC Recoil guides smoothly return to position after the rod bends, ensuring a fine-tuned performance.

The split-grip cork handle of the St. Croix Custom Ice Fishing Rod is designed for all-day comfort and precision engineering. You can fish with ease and haul in more fish out on the ice this season. This ice rod is built to reset the bar for performance on the ice, making it an excellent choice for anglers who demand the best.

Pros

  • Durable carbon blanks provide exceptional strength and sensitivity for every bite
  • Hi-vis tip allows for visual bite detection, even in low-light conditions
  • REC Recoil guides smoothly return to position after the rod bends for a fine-tuned performance
  • Split-grip cork handle ensures all-day comfort and precision engineering

2. St.croix Rod Premier Ice Fishing Rod & Reel Spinning Combo – 24" Medium

The Premier Ice rod has made a comeback and now with a PIC 500 reel, it makes an excellent ice fishing combo. The reel has 2 ball bearings, an aluminum spool, soft touch handle knob, and an aluminum folding arm. The special grease used in the reel makes it ideal for cold temperatures. The solid carbon blank used in the rod provides maximum action, sensitivity, and strength while keeping the weight to a minimum. The stainless-steel guides of the rod make it more durable. And, the traditional cork handle of the Premier Ice rod gives a comfortable and firm grip to the user. The Premier Ice rod paired with a PIC 500 reel is the ultimate combination for ice fishing enthusiasts. It is sure to bring success to the fishermen on the ice.

Pros

  • The PIC 500 reel has 2 ball bearings, an aluminum spool, a soft touch handle knob, and an aluminum folding arm.
  • The solid carbon blank used in the Premier Ice rod provides maximum action, sensitivity, and strength while keeping the weight to a minimum.
  • The stainless-steel guides of the Premier Ice rod make it more durable.
  • The cork handle of the Premier Ice rod provides a comfortable and firm grip to the user.

3. 13 Fishing – The Snitch Ice Rod – 25" Quick Action Tip W/hookset Backbone – Sn2- Black , 25"

The Solid Graphite Blank, Flex-Core Tip, Stainless Steel Guides, Custom Evolve Handle with High Grade Cork is an exceptional product that offers smooth and accurate casting. The blank is crafted with premium quality solid graphite that ensures durability and strength, and the flex-core tip allows for better sensitivity and control while casting. The stainless steel guides are corrosion-resistant and provide optimal line flow, reducing friction and ensuring longer casts. The Custom Evolve Handle is designed to provide a comfortable and non-slip grip, while the High Grade Cork offers excellent sensitivity and durability.

This product is ideal for anglers who demand high-performance fishing gear that is built to last. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, the Solid Graphite Blank, Flex-Core Tip, Stainless Steel Guides, Custom Evolve Handle with High Grade Cork is a great choice for any fishing trip. The product is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for long hours of fishing. The combination of the solid graphite blank and the flex-core tip offers exceptional sensitivity, allowing you to feel every nibble and bite. The stainless steel guides are also designed to eliminate tangles and ensure that the line flows smoothly, making casting a breeze.

Overall, the Solid Graphite Blank, Flex-Core Tip, Stainless Steel Guides, Custom Evolve Handle with High Grade Cork is a top-of-the-line fishing rod that delivers exceptional performance and durability. It is designed to meet the needs of anglers who demand the best, and it is sure to provide you with many years of reliable service.

Pros

  • Solid Graphite Blank ensures strength and durability
  • Flex-Core Tip provides better sensitivity and control while casting
  • Stainless Steel Guides are corrosion-resistant and reduce friction for longer casts
  • Custom Evolve Handle offers a comfortable and non-slip grip
  • High Grade Cork offers excellent sensitivity and durability
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Eliminates tangles for smooth casting

4. 13 Fishing – Archangel Ice Rod – 25" Ul (Ultra Light) – Single Piece Carbon Forged Ice Rod – Aa25ul

The fishing rod boasts of Carbon Forged Molding which ensures its durability and strength. The use of Halo Carbon Blank Material enhances the rod's sensitivity and responsiveness, making it easier for the angler to detect even the slightest of bites. The PC2 Flat Tip Construction further aids in this aspect by providing the perfect balance between power and sensitivity. Additionally, the rod comes equipped with an Evolve Foxhole Hook Keeper that ensures convenient and safe storage of your hook. This fishing rod is perfect for anglers of all levels and can be used for a variety of fishing techniques.

Experience a fishing rod like no other with Carbon Forged Molding. The Halo Carbon Blank Material provides unmatched sensitivity and responsiveness, making it easier for you to detect fish bites. The PC2 Flat Tip Construction ensures a perfect balance between power and sensitivity, allowing you to catch fish of all sizes with ease. The Evolve Foxhole Hook Keeper ensures that your hook is safely stored when not in use. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, this fishing rod is perfect for all your fishing needs.

The Carbon Forged Molding of this fishing rod ensures its longevity and durability. The Halo Carbon Blank Material used in its construction provides exceptional sensitivity and responsiveness, making it easy for you to detect fish bites. The PC2 Flat Tip Construction provides the perfect balance between power and sensitivity, allowing you to catch fish of all sizes with ease. The Evolve Foxhole Hook Keeper ensures that your hook is conveniently and safely stored when not in use. This fishing rod is suitable for anglers of all levels and can be used for a variety of fishing techniques.

Pros

  • Carbon Forged Molding ensures durability and strength
  • Halo Carbon Blank Material enhances sensitivity and responsiveness
  • PC2 Flat Tip Construction provides a perfect balance between power and sensitivity
  • Evolve Foxhole Hook Keeper ensures convenient and safe storage of your hook
  • Suitable for anglers of all levels and can be used for a variety of fishing techniques

5. St. Croix Rods Legend Black Ice Fishing Rod

The ice rod is designed with a fully adjustable/interchangeable spring indicator system that sets a new standard for spring bobber performance and versatility. This patented built-in strike indicator system allows ice anglers to customize their rod according to their preference.

The super-finesse, black anodized coil spring is made of high-tension stainless steel which is much more sensitive than any other type of indicator. With the Legend Black, anglers can see even the slightest bump or strike before it can be felt.

The rod is made of precision-taper solid carbon blank that provides maximum action, sensitivity, and strength with minimal weight. This material is perfect for extra-fast action rods that require precision and accuracy.

The fishing rod boasts Pac Bay Minima stainless-steel guides with black anodized frames and rings that enhance the rod's durability and performance. The comfortable secure-lock reel seat with EVA trim ensures that the reel stays in place and does not slip during fishing.

A custom reel-seat and split grip handle give this rod enhanced sensitivity and balance while keeping it comfortable in your hands even in cold weather. The split-grip EVA handle also reduces hand fatigue during long fishing sessions.

Pros

  • Patented built-in strike indicator system for customizable use
  • High-tension stainless steel strike indicator that is super-finesse and sensitive
  • Precision-taper solid carbon blank for maximum action and strength with minimal weight
  • Pac Bay Minima stainless-steel guides with black anodized frames and rings for durability and performance
  • Comfortable secure-lock reel seat with EVA trim and split-grip EVA handle for enhanced sensitivity and balance

6. Okuma Cold Water Ice Carbon Ice Fishing Rod- Cwi-S-321mh Black, 32"

The fishing rod features a 24-ton carbon rod blank construction, making it lightweight and durable. The split grip handle design is made of cork and EVA, which provides comfort and balance during use. The custom reel seat enhances the sensitivity of the rod, allowing for better control and responsiveness when fishing. Additionally, the colored rod tips improve bite visibility, making it easier to detect when a fish is biting. The fishing rod is backed by a 1-year limited warranty, ensuring a quality product that can withstand repeated use over time.

Pros

  • Lightweight and durable 24-ton carbon rod blank construction
  • Comfortable and balanced split grip handle design with cork and EVA
  • Custom reel seat enhances sensitivity for better control and responsiveness
  • Colored rod tips improve bite visibility for easier detection
  • Backed by a 1-year limited warranty for added peace of mind

7. Fenwick Elite Tech Perceptip Ice Fishing Rod

The fishing rod boasts of lightweight stainless steel guides that ensure a smooth and effortless casting experience. The ultra light fly guides are made of premium stainless steel, which adds to the durability and longevity of the product. The stainless steel material also makes the guides resistant to rust, corrosion and wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for fishing in saltwater or freshwater.

The cork handle of the fishing rod is of premium quality and has a TAC trim, which provides an excellent grip and makes it comfortable to hold the rod for long hours. The handle is lightweight, which reduces the fatigue caused by holding the rod for extended periods. The blaze orange tip of the rod is designed for increased bite detection, and it allows you to detect even the slightest nibble on your bait.

The fishing rod is suitable for anglers of all levels and is ideal for fishing in rivers, streams, and lakes. The premium quality materials used in the construction of the rod ensure that it is durable and long-lasting. The fishing rod is also lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport.

Pros

  • Lightweight stainless steel guides ensure a smooth and effortless casting experience
  • Premium cork handle with TAC trim provides an excellent grip and is comfortable to hold for long hours
  • Blaze orange tip designed for increased bite detection, allowing you to detect even the slightest nibble on your bait

8. Solid Carbon 36" Ice Rod By 13 Fishing

The J36T Blank is a high-quality fishing rod designed for anglers who demand the best. It features an Evolve Ported Reel Seat, which provides a secure and stable platform for your reel, and helps to reduce the weight of the rod. The Portuguese 3A Split Grip Cork Handle is comfortable to hold, and provides excellent grip and control, even when wet. It is also lightweight, which helps to reduce fatigue during long fishing trips.

The Evolve Thin Wire Guides are another great feature of this rod. They are designed to be ultra-smooth and reduce friction, which helps to increase casting distance and accuracy. They are also extremely durable, and can withstand the rigors of heavy use.

Overall, the J36T Blank is a top-quality fishing rod that is built to last. It comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty, which gives you peace of mind and ensures that you can enjoy your fishing experience without worrying about equipment failure.

Pros

  • Evolve Ported Reel Seat provides a secure and stable platform for your reel
  • Portuguese 3A Split Grip Cork Handle is comfortable to hold and provides excellent grip and control
  • Evolve Thin Wire Guides are ultra-smooth and reduce friction, increasing casting distance and accuracy
  • 1 Year Limited Warranty provides peace of mind and ensures that you can enjoy your fishing experience without worrying about equipment failure

9. St. Croix Rods Mojo Ice Fishing Rod

The fishing rod is made of a precision-taper solid carbon construction material that provides superior performance. With its premium split-grip cork and EVA handle, the fishing rod ensures you maintain a strong grip while fishing. The custom reel seat is ideal for all fishing techniques, while the Sea Guide lightweight stainless-steel guides make the fishing rod easy to maneuver. With a length of 24 inches and a power of ML, this fishing rod is perfect for anglers who want to catch a variety of fish species.

Pros

  • Made of precision-taper solid carbon construction material for superior performance
  • Premium split-grip cork and EVA handle ensures a strong grip while fishing
  • Custom reel seat ideal for all fishing techniques
  • Sea Guide lightweight stainless-steel guides make it easy to maneuver
  • Perfect length and power for catching a variety of fish species

10. 13 Fishing – Infrared Ice Rod – 40" M (Medium) – I2-40m,black

The fishing rod boasts a durable fiberglass blank that is designed to withstand the rigors of fishing activities. The fiberglass material is sturdy and long-lasting, ensuring that the rod can be used for years to come. The rod also features stainless steel guides that have high polish inserts. The guides are designed to help reduce friction when casting, which makes it easier to cast farther and with more accuracy. Additionally, the rod comes with a custom Evolve reel seat, which is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip and ensure that the reel stays securely in place during use.

Overall, this fishing rod is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and high-quality fishing rod that is built to last. Its durable fiberglass construction, stainless steel guides with high polish inserts, and custom Evolve reel seat make it a great value for its price. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, this fishing rod is sure to provide a great fishing experience that you won't soon forget.

Pros

  • Durable fiberglass blank for long-lasting use
  • Stainless steel guides with high polish inserts to reduce friction when casting
  • Custom Evolve reel seat for a comfortable grip and secure reel placement

Best Custom Ice Fishing Rods FAQs

How can I customize my ice fishing rod to meet my specific needs and preferences?

Customizing your ice fishing rod to meet your specific needs and preferences can greatly enhance your ice fishing experience. There are several ways you can do this:

1. Choose the right length and power: The length and power of your ice fishing rod will depend on the type of fish you intend to catch. If you're targeting larger fish, you'll need a longer and more powerful rod.

2. Select the right reel: Choose a reel that's appropriate for the size of your rod and the fish you're targeting. Make sure it has a smooth drag system and is easy to use.

3. Customize the handle: The handle of your ice fishing rod should be comfortable to hold and provide a good grip. You can customize it by adding cork or foam grips, or by wrapping it with tape or other materials.

4. Add a strike indicator: A strike indicator will help you detect when a fish bites your bait. You can attach it to your line or your rod.

5. Adjust the line and lure: The type of line and lure you use will depend on the fish you're targeting and the conditions of the water. Make sure they're appropriate for the fish you're trying to catch.

By customizing your ice fishing rod in these ways, you can create a setup that's tailored to your needs and preferences, and increase your chances of success on the ice.

How do I choose the right length and action for my custom ice fishing rod?

Choosing the right length and action for your custom ice fishing rod is crucial to ensure that you have a successful and enjoyable ice fishing experience. The length of the rod depends on the type of fish you are targeting and the depth of the water you are fishing in. Generally, shorter rods are more suitable for shallow waters, while longer rods are better for deeper waters. As for the action, it refers to the flexibility and sensitivity of the rod. A fast action rod is more sensitive and suitable for catching smaller fish, while a slow action rod is more flexible and suitable for catching larger fish.

To choose the right length and action for your custom ice fishing rod, you need to consider your personal preferences, the type of fish you are targeting, and the conditions of the water you are fishing in. You can also seek advice from experienced ice fishermen or consult with a professional rod builder to determine the best length and action for your custom ice fishing rod. With the right length and action, you can increase your chances of catching more fish and have a more enjoyable ice fishing experience.

What are the benefits of using custom ice fishing rods over standard ones?

Custom ice fishing rods are becoming increasingly popular among anglers, and for good reason. These rods are designed and built to meet the specific needs of individual anglers, providing them with a range of benefits over standard rods.

Firstly, custom ice fishing rods are tailored to the individual angler's fishing style, preferences, and physical attributes. This means that they offer a more comfortable and efficient fishing experience, as they are designed to fit the angler's body and meet their specific needs.

Secondly, custom ice fishing rods are made with higher quality materials than standard rods. This means that they are more durable, have a longer lifespan, and provide better performance. Custom rods are also more likely to be built with high-end components, such as high-quality guides and reel seats, which can improve the overall performance of the rod.

Finally, custom ice fishing rods offer anglers the ability to personalize their equipment, making it unique and special to them. This can be a great source of pride and satisfaction for anglers, and can make their fishing experiences more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Overall, the benefits of using custom ice fishing rods are clear. They offer superior performance, greater comfort, and a personalized touch that can make all the difference to an angler's fishing experience.

What materials are commonly used in the construction of custom ice fishing rods?

Custom ice fishing rods can be made from a variety of materials, depending on the preferences of the angler. Some of the most commonly used materials include graphite, fiberglass, and composites. Graphite is a popular choice because it is lightweight and sensitive, allowing anglers to feel even the slightest nibble on their line. Fiberglass is more durable and flexible, making it a good choice for anglers who prefer a slower action rod. Composites, which are made from a combination of graphite and fiberglass, offer the best of both worlds, combining the sensitivity of graphite with the durability of fiberglass. Other materials that may be used in the construction of custom ice fishing rods include cork, foam, and various types of thread for wrapping guides and securing the reel seat. Ultimately, the choice of materials will depend on the angler's personal preference, budget, and fishing style.

Where can I find reputable custom ice fishing rod builders and manufacturers?

If you're looking for reputable custom ice fishing rod builders and manufacturers, there are several options available to you. One of the best ways to find a reputable builder is to ask for recommendations from other ice fishing enthusiasts. You can also check online forums and social media groups dedicated to ice fishing to see if anyone has recommendations for custom rod builders.

Another great option is to visit local fishing shops and ask for recommendations. Many fishing shops carry custom rods and can provide you with information about the builders they work with. You can also ask for references from the builders themselves and reach out to previous customers to get a better idea of the quality of their work.

When choosing a custom rod builder, it's important to consider factors such as the builder's experience, reputation, and overall quality of their work. You should also consider the materials and components used in the construction of the rod, as well as the builder's ability to customize the rod to your specific needs and preferences.

Overall, finding a reputable custom ice fishing rod builder requires a bit of research and legwork, but the end result is a high-quality rod that's tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

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