Walley Angler in a boat

What to know about walleye Ice Fishing Rod

February 28, 2025

Ice fishing is one of the most popular winter activities. For that reason the right equipment is crucial for having success on walleye ice fishing.

Ice fishing is one of the most popular winter activities at Totem Resorts during winter season. And in order to succeed at walleye ice fishing, you must have the right equipment with you.

For that reason, the walleye ice fishing rod is one of the most crucial pieces that you need.

An ice fishing rod may appear to be a basic instrument, but not all of them are created equal. In fact, the length, power, and action of an ice rod are the most important features to have in mind for acquiring the best one.

Walleye are the dominant species in many parts of the ice belt. In fact, these fish remain active beneath the ice, devouring prey and allocating calories to the growth of reproductive tissues for use during the spawning season. And that’s a good reason to have a great walleye ice fishing rod with you.

Now, in this article, we’ll explore a bit more the features that are needed in a good walleye ice fishing rod. Like that, you’ll be able to choose the best one!

Ideal Ice Fishing rod to catch walleye

A walleye ice fishing rod is specialized equipment used to catch walleye through the ice. Since these rods are shorter and more flexible than standard ones, they’re better to have a control of the sensitivity required for bite detection and ice fishing lures.

Most walleye anglers select a 32 to 36-inch rod when ice fishing. A 32’’ rod is a good choice when fishing in shelter, and a 36" rod is perfect for hole jumping. Thus, select a rod power based on your ice fishing plans.

If you’re fishing walleye in big waters like Lake of the Woods, then a medium-heavy power rod is more appropriate. Due to the fact walleye have such bony mouths, a rod with a stiff spine can ensure a good positive hook.

So, go for a rod with a fast or even extra-fast action when chasing walleye through the ice.

Length is important

The length of the rod is imperative. That being said, the normal length for a walleye ice fishing rod is between 24 and 36 inches.

To some extent, rod length connects along with your target species. Thus, longer rods are more useful for bigger walleye. In addition, you should also consider where you plan to spend your fishing time, whether inside a shelter or out in the wilderness.

Since ice fishing outside a shelter postures no rod length confinements, numerous versatile anglers are in favor of longer rods to make fishing more comfortable whereas standing.

All rods need some Action

Another important feature to have in mind about a walleye ice fishing rod is the action. And the action of a rod refers to how the rod bends when a fish bite into it.

On one hand, a fast action rod is usually more sensitive. On the other hand, a slow action rod is better at setting the hook.

But the action of the rod depends on the ice fishing expectations you have!

The Power of a rod

When we talk about the power of a rod, we talk about the strength the rod comes with.

A light rod is outstanding for lighter lures, while a heavy rod is better for larger lures and therefore heavier fish.

For walleye ice fishing, it’s crucial to have a heavy rod with you.

Good Material, good results

With good material, good results can come. For ice fishing rods, elements like graphite or fiberglass tend to be used.

In the first place, you must know that graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive. In contrast, fiberglass rods are tougher and more lasting.

Of course, at the end of the day, choosing the material is up to you!

But, as you can see, a walleye ice fishing rod is an essential tool for capturing walleye through the ice.

Hence, take these aspects into consideration when looking for a walleye ice fishing rod and good luck when going ice fishing!

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