The Best Ice Fishing Rod For Walleye Reviews – Our Prime 5 Picks 2023

The best ice fishing rod for walleye can help you bring in those big catches and make your time spent out there even more enjoyable. Are you an avid angler who loves the thrill of ice fishing? If so, then you know that having the right gear is essential for successful days on the ice. I have done all the research for you and have compiled a list of the best rods for walleye to narrow down your search. 

Read on to learn which one is best for your needs.

Let’s get started! 

Our Most Reliable and Durable Five Picks For The Best Ice Fishing Rod For Walleye

1. FreeFall Ghost Radioactive Pickle – Ice Fishing Combos

best ice fishing rod for walleye

Best For Power

13 Fishing’s Radioactive Pickle is a more powerful combo that comes with a Tickle Stick Rod. FreeFall Ghost Reel both feature flat tip construction, split grip handles and instant anti-reverse. Moreover, it has drop speed control and ALPS Thin Wire Guides. With this combination of features, you can feel every bite like never before.

Why We Love It

Make your ice fishing experience even more enjoyable with the Radioactive Pickle Ice Fishing Combo from 13 Fishing. It’s designed to help you cast farther and feels more vibrations through its special PC2 Flat Tip Blank Construction and high vis tip on the rod. Experience heightened sensitivity and power with this one-of-a-kind ice fishing duo.

Specification

  • Item Package Dimensions: 27.5 x 5 x 5 inches
  • Package Weight: ‎0.75 Kilograms
  • Item Dimensions: ‎27 x 4 x 5 inches
  • Item Weight: ‎10 Ounces
  • Brand Name: ‎13 FISHING
  • Model Name: ‎13 FISHING – FreeFall Ghost Radioactive Pickle Ice Combo – 27″ L (Light) – FF Ghost + Tickle Stick – Left Hand Retrieve – RP2-27L-LH
  • Color: ‎Radioactive Pickle Green
  • Material: ‎Composite, Plastic, Carbon Fiber
  • Style: ‎Left Hand Retreive
  • Size: ‎27″ L (Light)
  • Fishing Line Type: ‎Mono, Fluro, Braid
  • Fishing Technique: Ice

2. Ghosthorn Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

best ice fishing rod for walleye

Best For Versatility

The Ghosthorn Fishing Rod and Reel Combo are designed with all graphite rods, reducing the physical weight by 20% compared to others. And it comes with 3 carbon washers on the reel, one-way no-gap stainless steel bearings, and all metal rocker arms – making this combo perfect for any challenge that might come your way. Plus, it collapses down to 17” long, so you can easily carry it into your backpack when hiking or camping. 

Why We Love It

Whether you are after bass, crappie, walleye, or trout & this telescopic fishing rod will help catch them all. It also makes the perfect gift for any passionate fisherman in your life. Its two-piece rod makes it easy to transport, while the high-quality carbon fiber ensures strength and enhanced sensitivity when out on the water. The adjustable reel handle allows you to customize the feel of the combo so you can make every catch more enjoyable.

Specification

  • Item Package Dimensions: ‎42 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches
  • Package Weight: ‎2 Pound
  • Item Dimensions: ‎9’0″ (Two Pieces)
  • Item Weight: ‎10 Ounces
  • Brand Name: ‎Ghosthorn
  • Model Name: ‎Ghosthorn Fishing Rod and Reel Combo – 9′ 0″ 2 Piece Carbon Fiber Rod – Ultra-Smooth Drag System – Adjustable Handle Length for Customized Feel
  • Color: ‎Black, Grey, Blue
  • Material: Carbon Fiber
  • Style: Two Pieces
  • Size: 9′ 0″
  • Fishing Line Type: Mono, Fluro, Braid
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing

3. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod

best ice fishing rod for walleye

Best For Durability

The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod has got you covered. This rod is designed with 35% more graphite, giving it exceptional strength and feel. Its virtually indestructible blank construction features both graphite and fiberglass, each providing your hands with an incredibly comfortable grip as well as increased responsiveness. On top of that, the 1-piece stainless steel Ugly Tuff guides can be used with all types of lines – plus, there’s no fear of insert pop-outs. With this spinning rod by your side, you know you’ve made the right decision. 

Why We Love It

Fishermen everywhere choose the Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod for its toughness. Yet lightweight construction, along with its added flexibility and sensitivity when compared to other models on the market today. Enjoy longer fishing outings in complete comfort thanks to this rod’s cork handles. The stainless steel guides ensure smooth casts and retrieves, making it easy to bring in the big catches every time.

Specification

  • Item Package Dimensions: ‎45 x 5 x 1.5 inches
  • Package Weight: ‎1.6 Pounds
  • Item Dimensions: ‎7′ 0″
  • Item Weight: ‎12 Ounces
  • Brand Name: Ugly Stik
  • Model Name: Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod – 7’0″ – Medium Power – 2 Piece Construction – Clear Tip Design – Stainless Steel Guides
  • Color: Black/Gray
  • Material: Graphite, Fiberglass, Steel
  • Style: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing
  • Size: 7′ 0″
  • Fishing Line Type: Mono, Fluro, Braid
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing

4. Goture Travel Fishing Rods

best ice fishing rod for walleye

Best For Travel

Goture’s Aerglo series spinning pole has it all! It uses high-level 30T+36T X-shape carbon fiber that is lightweight but strong, Fuji O-ring with better heat dissipation and higher bending strength, and an interval reserved between the inserts to create maximum power transition. Perfect for a variety of fish like pike, trout, yellowtail, mackerel, walleye, etc. This one of a kind 2 piece rod will make your river or sea fishing experience flawless.

Why We Love It

Tackle whatever waters come your way with confidence using this dependable travel rod. With its unique two-piece design that feels just like one piece when used, you won’t want to leave home without it. Make sure every catch counts as easily fit into any car trunk or boat hatch ready to go wherever the adventure takes you. And because of its lightweight construction and portable size, you can take it with you wherever your heart desires.

Specification

  • Item Package Dimensions: ‎17 x 3.4 x 1.7 inches
  • Package Weight: ‎0.89 Kilograms
  • Item Dimensions: ‎54 x 3 x 3 inches
  • Item Weight: ‎11 Ounces
  • Brand Name: Goture
  • Model Name: Goture Travel Fishing Rods – 7’0″ – Ultra-Lightweight High Modulus Carbon Material – 6 Layer Reinforced Tips – EVA Handle Grip – Telescopic Collapses to 17 Inches
  • Color: Black/Gray
  • Material: Carbon Fiber, EVA, Steel
  • Style: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing 
  • Size: 7′ 0″ 
  • Fishing Line Type: Mono, Fluro, Braid
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing

5. 13 FISHING – Tickle Stick – Ice Fishing Rods

best ice fishing rod for walleye

Best For Versatility

Get ready to elevate your fishing game with the 13 Fishing Tickle Stick Ice Rods. Its  Blank Construction is designed for increased sensitivity and helps prevent rollovers, resulting in perfect hook sets every time. With its Hi-Vis Tip, Custom Evolve Reel Seat, and Hand Selected 3A Portuguese Cork Handle plus Comfort Rubber Reel Seat Insert. You will be out fishing, even the professionals. Plus, its aluminum oxide guides add to its versatility, making it suitable for both mono and braided line use.

Why We Love It

Enjoy a more successful day on the ice with easy detections of strikes and consistent hook sets every time. All thanks to this amazing rod design from 13 Fishing. Make a statement when you fish with style and quality combined together in one incredible piece of equipment. Plus, the extra-long cork handle provides a comfortable grip in even the coldest temperatures so that you can be sure of success every time.

Specification

  • Item Package Dimensions: ‎‎30.25 x 2.75 x 1.75 inches
  • Package Weight: ‎‎0.27 Kilograms
  • Item Dimensions: ‎28 x 1 x 1 inches
  • Item Weight: ‎4 Ounces
  • Brand Name: 13 Fishing
  • Model Name: 13 Fishing Tickle Stick Ice Fishing Rods – 28″ – Graphite Blank – Aluminum Oxide Guides – EVA Handle Grip
  • Color: Green/Black
  • Material: Graphite, EVA
  • Style: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing 
  • Size: 28″
  • Fishing Line Type: Mono, Fluro, Braid
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting, Ice Fishing

Buying Guide

Quality

When looking for the best ice fishing rod for walleye, remember to look for rods with high-quality construction and materials that offer great strength and sensitivity.

Size

Walleye are medium to large-sized fish, so you’ll want a longer rod of 28″ or more.

Fishing Line Type

Your choice of fishing line type will depend on the type of water you’re in and how deep it is. You should be able to use mono, fluro, or braid with most rods but make sure to double-check before purchasing.

Fishing Technique

Ice fishing has its own techniques from other types of fishing, such as jigging and trolling, that walleye love, so make sure to select a rod that offers good sensitivity and handling of these techniques.

Budget

It’s always important to look at the price before investing in any type of gear. Luckily, there are many quality but affordable ice fishing rods for walleye available, so you should be able to find one in your budget range.

In the end, when shopping for the best ice fishing rod for walleye, make sure to consider size, material, line type, and technique, as well as price. With these criteria in mind, you should be able to select the perfect rod for your needs.

Happy Fishing!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the best ice fishing rod for walleye, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, look for rods with high-quality construction and materials that offer strength and sensitivity. Secondly, opt for a longer rod of 28″ or more, as walleye are medium to large-sized fish. 

Thirdly, be sure to double-check your choice of fishing line type depending on the water conditions, such as mono, fluro, or braid. Lastly, select a rod that offers good sensitivity and handling of jigging and trolling techniques, which walleye love. And don’t forget your budget too! With these criteria in place, you should be able to find an excellent ice fishing rod that meets all of your unique needs. 

Happy fishing!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the best ice fishing rod for walleye? 

The 13 Fishing Tickle Stick Ice Fishing Rods is an excellent option with its Hi-Vis Tip, Custom Evolve Reel Seat, and Hand Selected 3A Portuguese Cork Handle plus Comfort Rubber Reel Seat Insert, making it suitable for both mono and braided line use. 

How long should my ice fishing rod be for walleye? 

Since walleye are medium to large-sized fish, you’ll want a longer rod of 28″ or more for optimal performance when catching walleye. 

Can I use a braid with an ice fishing rod? 

Yes, you can use a braid with most ice fishing rods as long as you double-check that it’s compatible first. 

What type of fishing techniques should I use when ice fishing walleye? 

Ice Fishing has its own techniques from other types of fishing, such as jigging and trolling, which is preferred by walleye, so make sure to select a rod that offers good sensitivity and handling of these techniques. 

How much does an ice fishing rod for walleye cost? 

Generally, quality but affordable ice fishing rods for walleye are available so you should be able to find one in your budget range. Be sure to consider your budget before investing in any type of gear. 

What is the best line type for ice fishing walleye? 

The best line type will depend on the type of water you’re in and how deep it is. You should be able to use mono, fluro or braid with most rods but make sure to double check before purchasing. 

Are there other factors I should consider when shopping for an ice fishing rod for walleye? 

Yes! It’s important to take into account size, material, technique as well as price when shopping for an ice fishing rod for walleye so that you can find the perfect rod for your needs. 

Good luck, and happy fishing! With the right knowledge, you can find an ice fishing rod for walleye that will help you reel in those big catches. 

Don’t forget to check out the other articles on gear selection, technique tips, and more.

Good luck and tight lines!

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