When it comes to ice fishing, the secret to landing a catch lies in the rod you use. It has to be the right length and deliver the action you need to successfully catch fish.
But with the hundreds of options available, picking the best one can be quite daunting. This is especially true when you have to look for the best ice rod for catching perch.
As we all know, perch is generally medium-sized and is not as aggressive as the others. This makes it hard to detect when it made a nibble, and that makes it tricky to catch.
Don’t worry – we’re here to help. We put popular ice rods to the test to determine which ones are the crème of the crop. So here they are: the best ice fishing rods for perch in the market and find out why the 13 Fishing FreeFall Stealth Ice Fishing Combo is our top choice.
How to choose a quality ice fishing rod?
Type
When it comes to ice fishing, you specifically need an ice rod to land a catch. An ice rod is far shorter than a regular rod, making it more manageable to fish through a hole.
Action
Another factor to consider is the rod’s action or flexibility. A good ice rod should be flexible enough to alert us when a fish made a nibble. The faster the action, the better it is for ice fishing.
Power
Working hand-in-hand with action is power. This refers to the backbone or resistance of the rod. So if you’re fishing for heavy fish, you should similarly go for a heavy power rod.
Material
The ideal rod material largely depends on the fishing style you are going to try. Popular options for ice fishing include graphite, carbon, and fiberglass.
Line and Lure Weight
You should also consider the line and lure weight. Ideally, you should choose a line and lure that are lightweight and wouldn’t easily freeze in cold temperatures.
Reel Selection
As for the reel, it should contain internal workings that won’t freeze easily. It should also be lightweight enough to help balance out the overall feel of the rod.
Our Top Picks
Best All-Around Fishing Rod: 13 Fishing Inline Ice Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Best Premium Ice Fishing Rod: Freefall Maverick Inline Ice Fishing Combo
Best Value Ice Fishing Rod: St. Croix Mojo Ice Fishing Rod
Comparison Factor
| Ice Fishing Rod | Length | Style | Action | Handle | Material | Power | Guides |
| 13 Fishing Stealth Inline Combos | 27″-30″ | Left Hand Retrieve | Fast | N/A | Tackle Stick PC2 | Ultralight | N/A |
| FreeFall Maverick Ice Combos | 27″ | Both Hand Retrieve | Fast | N/A | Tackle Stick PC2 | L or UL | ALPS Thin Wire |
| St. Croix Mojo | 24″-34″ | Medium | X-Fast | Cork/EVA | Solid Carbon | ML or UL | Stainless Steel |
| Fenwick World Class Rod | 24″-42″ | Ultra-Light | Fast | Split | Solid Carbon | UL | Lightweight |
| Frabill Spin Combo | 30″ | Ultra-sensitive micro | Fast | Cork | Fiberglass Composite | Ul | Lightweight micro |
| Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod | 24″-32″ | Medium Power | Fast | Cork | Graphite | ML | Stainless Steel |
Best Ice Fishing Rods for Perch Reviewed
Here we are reviewing the 6 top ice fishing rods for perch, as well as Explained that which product is best for which purpose:
1. 13 Fishing FreeFall Stealth Inline Ice Fishing Rod and Reel Combo – Best All-Around Fishing Rod
We’ll start this list with a 13 Fishing ice rod review. This inline ice fishing rod and reel combo offer both performance and aesthetics – a truly winning combination.
Features and Benefits
- It comes with a 27-inch rod and an ice reel. This expertly curated combination delivers both finesse and smooth retrieval to improve our ice fishing experience.
- The PC2 blank is highly sensitive. The increased sensitivity allows us to feel the lure’s every movement. This allows us to catch even the most subtle of feeders.
- It features an Instant Anti-Reverse system. This feature helps with ensuring a smooth line retrieval, even with the persistent tugging of your catch.
Specifications
- Rod Material: Tickle Stick PC2
- Action: Fast
- Power: UL
- Length: 27 inches
One of our favorite features of this rod and reel combo is its increased sensitivity. We were able to feel the lure’s every movement – even the subtlest nibble was not able to escape. And with its smooth retrieval system, no perch could ever escape.
The PC2 blank was also incredibly sturdy. We were able to catch a good-sized walleye with it without issue. So aside from perch, we believe it’s also the best ice fishing rod for walleye.
Compared to its previous versions, the Freefall Stealth now comes with a guide to rigging the line easier. That makes it convenient for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Pros
- Great value for the money.
- The reel offers smooth and efficient line retrieval.
- It is lightweight.
- It is comfortable and easy to operate.
- It is very stylish.
Cons
- Currently, this combo is only available for left-handed users. You may have to replace the reel if you’re right-handed.
Recommended Size
- On Open Area: 27 inches
Expert Quote
“[The reel] doesn’t easily freeze to the spool. The rod has great sensitivity.” – Scheels Verified Review.
2. 13 Fishing Freefall Maverick Inline Ice Fishing Combo – Best Premium Ice Fishing Rod
Another notable rod and reel combo from 13 Fishing is its Freefall Maverick. This powerful combination boasts high sensitivity and durability – the best combination for fishing in icy waters.
Features and Benefits
- The PC2 blank is very sensitive. It allows you to feel every movement around the lure, so no fish can ever escape again.
- It is 27 inches long. This is a great length that allows you enough space to maneuver comfortably.
- It comes with Drop Speed Control. This feature allows us to drop the line at our desired rate to make it look as natural as possible.
Specifications
- Rod Material: Tickle Stick PC2
- Action: Fast
- Power: L or UL
- Length: 27 inches
The 13 Fishing Freefall Maverick comes with a PC2 blank, known for its superior sensitivity. This alerts us of every nibble made, so we don’t have to worry about losing a fish again. Surprisingly, it’s also quite durable, and that guarantees good value for the money.
Fortunately, the Maverick combo comes in both left and right-handed orientations. This makes it more accessible to different anglers – unlike the Stealth that’s only available for left-handed people.
Compared to the Freefall Stealth above, the Maverick comes with a light power rod that makes it a little heavier. Fortunately, the added weight makes it feel more balanced – and that makes it great when wrestling with a feisty catch.
The Maverick also has an ultra-light version, which we think is the best ice fishing rod for panfish.
Pros
- The added weight makes the rod feel more balanced.
- It offers a smooth line dropping and retrieval.
- The extra sensitivity helps catch even the least aggressive perch.
- Left and right-handed orientations available.
- The reel is very easy to operate.
Cons
- You have to be extra careful with storage. Make sure that the tips have enough space to prevent them from breaking off.
- It can be a bit pricey. But considering its performance, and that it is a rod and reel combo, we believe it’s a great investment.
Recommended Size
- On Open Area: 27 inches
Expert Quote
“Absolutely love this combo. The reel works amazing, and the rod is extremely sensitive.” – Verified Amazon Review.
3. St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod – Best Value Fishing Rod
The St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod is another promising contender for the best ice fishing rods for perch. It’s versatile and extremely durable, and we’ll share everything in this St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod review.
Features and Benefits
- It uses a solid carbon blank. This material is known for its extreme durability without sacrificing sensitivity. As a result, you can wrestle with an aggressive catch without worrying about it falling apart.
- It has stainless steel rod guides. This feature makes it corrosion-resistant, allowing us to use it in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
- It has a split-grip handle. That will give us a comfortable grip while the butt helps with balancing out the weight for improved handling.
Specifications
- Rod Material: Precision-Taper Solid Carbon
- Action: X-Fast
- Power: ML or UL
- Length: 24 inches
Aside from its solid blank, we are also impressed with Mojo’s overall feel. In general, it feels lightweight, but the split-type grip helps balance out the weight when we’re fishing. This makes it easy to manage, especially when we manage to land a bite.
We also love how versatile it is. It is constructed to be virtually indestructible – even the rod guides are corrosion resistant. That allows us to use it for different game fish.
Despite its small size, it can easily retrieve a large trout with ease. With the right technique, the St. Croix Mojo can also be the best ice fishing rod for lake trout.
While it’s shorter than the previous rods we’ve mentioned, it’s still not short enough for in-shelter ice fishing. That’s the only downside we can think of.
Pros
- It uses premium and durable materials.
- The reel seat keeps the reel in place, even when you’re wrestling with your catch.
- The tip offers improved sensitivity.
- It feels balanced.
- It is easy to operate.
Cons
- Much of the sensitivity lies at the tip, so some users might find the blank to be too stiff. Nevertheless, it’s not bothersome once you get the hang of it.
Recommended Size
- On Open Area: 24 inches
Expert Quote
“It has extreme sensitivity in the tip, you’re [going to] have a fun fight.” -Superior Angling (Youtube).
4. Fenwick World Class Ice Fishing Spinning Rod – Our Top Choice
When it comes to ice fishing, we strongly recommend the best Fenwick spinning rod. It is the perfect blend of action and comfort, and we’ll relay all the details in this Fenwick rod review.
Features and Benefits
- It has a solid carbon blank. This material is known for superior durability, so you can count on it to last for a long time. That will surely give you the best value for the money.
- It has a grippy cork handle. The cork handle offers extra texture to keep our hands from slipping while we wrestle with the fish.
- It comes with lightweight components. All of the components that go into this rod are specially selected to maintain its balanced weight.
Specifications
- Rod Material: Solid Carbon
- Action: Fast
- Power: UL
- Length: 24 inches
One of the best features of this rod is its undeniable comfort. Fenwick put effort into its design to deliver a lightweight rod that’s perfectly competitive in the field.
While it has a solid carbon blank, it still delivers decent sensitivity to help us land a catch. This is paired with a split-grip handle that keeps everything balanced. That makes it easy to retrieve the line once you manage to land a bite.
It also offers decent versatility in what you can catch with it. Aside from perch, we were able to catch medium-sized pike with it. It has a solid backbone – that’s why we think it’s also the best ice fishing rod for northern pike.
Pros
- It feels well-balanced and comfortable to grip.
- It is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- It is easy to operate.
- It uses durable materials.
Cons
- Honestly, we couldn’t find a single flaw with this item.
Recommended Size
- On Open Area: 24 inches
Expert Quote
“Perfect action. Light as a feather.” – Verified Amazon Customer.
5. Frabill Panfish Popper Ice Fishing Combo – Best for Beginners
The Frabill Panfish Popper Ice Fishing Combo is one of the most affordable ice fishing rods in the market. But don’t let that price tag fool you – this rod can deliver a jaw-dropping performance. Know more about it through this Frabill Ice Fishing Rods review.
Features and Benefits
- It comes with a micro-spring bobber. This ultra-sensitive strike detection system instantly alerts us of every movement, so we never miss out again.
- It has a fiberglass blank. This material is known for being lightweight and extremely durable. This is an impressive feature, especially considering the price.
- The reel offers ambidextrous operation. This feature makes it accessible for all users.
Specifications
- Rod Material: Solid Fiberglass Composite
- Action: Fast
- Power: UL
- Length: 24 inches
The Frabill Panfish Popper Ice Fishing Combo has many surprising qualities, especially if you consider its price.
It comes with a decent fiberglass blank that’s lightweight and incredibly comfortable. It offers a firm and sturdy grip, so we can wrestle with an aggressive catch with ease.
We also love the ambidextrous reel. This makes it accessible for all users – whether left or right-handed. Speaking of its universality, the Frabill Panfish Popper Ice Fishing Combo is also easy to use. That makes it perfect for everyone, regardless of fishing skills.
Overall, we find the Frabill Panfish Popper Ice Fishing Combo to be the best fishing rod for those on a budget.
Pros
- It is easy to operate, making it perfect for beginners.
- It is lightweight and comfortable to use.
- It comes with a convenient and reliable reel.
- It is very affordable.
Cons
- The handle may feel too short for people with bigger hands. But with enough practice, it’s something you can easily get used to.
Recommended Size
- On Open Area: 24 inches
Expert Quote
“[It is] super sensitive but [has] enough backbone to land the big one with some patience.” – Verified Amazon Review.
6. Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod – Best for Budget
Last on our list, but not least, is the Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod. With its graphite blank, sensitivity is at the heart of its features. But the best part? It’s the most affordable item on this list.
Features and Benefits
- It has a graphite blank. Graphite delivers unmatched sensitivity, and that greatly helps us with detecting a bite.
- It has a comfortable cork handle. The handle is specially shaped to meet the natural curves of our palm. That guarantees comfort and a great grip.
- It has a blank-through-handle construction. This feature offers an added support for the blank to keep it from falling apart.
Specifications
- Rod Material: Graphite
- Action: Fast
- Power: ML
- Length: 24 inches
We are most impressed by the Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod’s sensitivity. We didn’t expect much because of the price, and we’re happy that we were proven wrong.
Graphite blanks do not disappoint because we could feel everything underwater. Even the slightest tugging had us on alert, which is why we rarely missed a perch.
We also love the ergonomic design on the handle. The curves add a layer of comfort for the palm, while the texture keeps the hand from slipping. As a result, we could fish with this rod for hours without experiencing cramps or fatigue.
Pros
- It is lightweight and highly sensitive.
- It feels well-balanced.
- It offers a firm and comfortable grip.
- It is very affordable.
Cons
- While graphite delivers unparalleled sensitivity, it is not the most durable material. Make sure to use it within recommended weight limits.
Recommended Size
- On Open Area: 24 inches
Expert Quote
“Sensitive 5-guide rod. Stiff enough to handle larger panfish.” Verified Amazon Review.
Things to Consider Before Buying an Ice Fishing Rod for Perch
Before you ultimately pick a rod, we strongly recommend looking into the following factors first.
Blank Durability
One of the most important factors to consider is the durability of the rod. Remember that a good ice rod doesn’t easily shatter or snap under pressure. That makes it especially useful when you’re trying to reel in the perch.
Durability has a lot to do with the material used in the blank’s construction.
Rod Quality
It’s also important to consider its quality. This is determined by the components attached to the blank to complete the rod.
We advise looking into the quality of the rod guides, the handles, and even the reel seat.
Comfort
Of course, we shouldn’t forget about comfort. A good ice rod should feel well-balanced to allow you to fish comfortably. Also, look into the grip material to determine whether that would feel great on your hands.
Budget
And finally, you should consider your budget. A good ice rod doesn’t have to be expensive. There are numerous options available at different price points, so you’ll surely find one that won’t hurt your wallet.
Best Ice Fishing Reel for Perch
13 Fishing Black Betty Freefall Ghost Inline Ice Fishing Reel – The Top-rated Fishing Reel
If you come across 13 Fishing reel reviews, you know that its FreeFall Ghost is the best on ice.
It features a graphite frame that’s lightweight and durable, allowing it to perch comfortably on your rod. We love how smooth it operates – whether as it drops to the icy water or as you retrieve it.
It’s also easy to use. It’s designed to allow a one-handed operation, and that makes reeling in a breeze.
Thus, you can easily see why we recommend this reel for ice fishing.
Let’s watch a video!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of rod do you need for ice fishing?
For ice fishing, you need a reliable ice rod to successfully pull the fish out of the icy water. These rods are shorter than your average fishing rods, making them easier to handle. They’re also known for their ultra-fast action and lightweight construction
Why are ice fishing rods so small?
Small rods are known to give you better accuracy at shorter distances. Since you’ll be fishing out of a hole in the ice, that’s easier to accomplish with a small rod.
Can you ice fish with a normal rod?
Yes, it is possible to ice fish with a normal rod. But considering its lengthy blank, ice fishing with a normal rod can be tricky. You have to be an experienced angler to pull that off.
Can you use a regular fishing reel for ice fishing?
Generally, yes, you can use a regular fishing reel for ice fishing. However, some gears tend to work slower in lower temperatures. That makes line retrieval a headache – or lose your catch along the way. That’s why we still advise going for specialized ice fishing reels.
Can you use an ice fishing rod for regular fishing?
Yes, you can use an ice rod for regular fishing. But considering its shorter length, you can’t cast it at considerable distances.
Final Thoughts
Always remember that the perfect ice rod for you is the one that highlights your fishing skills. Thus, it’s best to assess your fishing style first before you impulsively make a purchase.
To serve as a guide, here is a summary of our recommended rods and what they’re best for. We have selected step by step which is the best ice fishing rods for perch and best for what purpose.
Our overall top pick is the 13 Fishing FreeFall Stealth for its superior performance at a fair price. Running at a close second is the weightier 13 Fishing Freefall Maverick, perfect if you prefer more stability.
In terms of versatility, the St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod guarantees both fresh and saltwater performance. But if you prefer one that’s specially designed for comfort, you can’t go wrong with the Fenwick World Class.
And if you’re on a budget, the Frabill Panfish Popper Combo and the Fiblink Graphite Rod are your top choices.
Happy Fishing!
