Best Ice Fishing Rod And Reel Combo For Walleye 2023

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the United States. Ice fishing is a fun, challenging sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. And when it comes to ice fishing, there’s no better way to enjoy this frozen pastime than with the best ice fishing rod and reel combo

Best Ice Fishing Rod And Reel Combo For Walleye Reviews

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the top-rated combos on the market today and give you our thoughts on which one is right for you. So whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, read on to find the perfect ice fishing setup for your needs!

1# 13 Fishing Radioactive Pickle Inline Ice Fishing Combo

13 Fishing Pickle Inline Ice Fishing Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Right, Left
Gear Ratio: 2.5:1
Length: 25″, 27″
Ball Bearings: 3+1

Looking for an inline ice fishing combo that’s sure to help you reel in the big ones? Look no further than the 13 Fishing Radioactive Pickle Inline Ice Fishing Combo! This top-of-the-line combo features a freefall trigger that releases line when pulled, drop speed control to adjust the fall rate, and a composite graphite frame.

Plus, with 3+1 bearings and instant anti-reverse, you’ll be able to fish with ease. Not to mention, the soft touch handle knobs add an extra level of comfort. And with a 2.5:1 gear ratio, you’ll be able to power through even the toughest fight.

Pros
  • Freefall trigger releases line when pulled

  • Drop speed control adjusts fall rate

  • 3+1 bearings

  • Instant anti-reverse

Cons
  • Composite graphite frame may be fragile

2# Pflueger President/Fenwick Elite Tech Inline Ice Combo

Pflueger President Fenwick Inline Ice Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
Length: 24″, 27″, 32″
Ball Bearings: 5+1
Action: Extra Fast

The Pflueger President/Fenwick Elite Tech Inline Ice Combo is the perfect choice for serious anglers. With a composite frame and aluminium spool, this reel is built to last. The free-spool trigger system ensures easy casting, while the magnetic brake keeps your line in place.

The 5+1 bearing system provides smooth operation, and the carbon drag gives you reliable performance in all conditions. The aluminium handle with the EVA knob ensures a comfortable grip, even when you’re wearing gloves. And the cold gear lube means this reel can stand up to the most extreme conditions.

Pros
  • Excellent durability

  • Strong reel to tackle big fish

  • Magnetic brake provides reliable performance in all conditions

Cons
  • Doesn’t cast as smoothly as some models

3# Clam Gravity Ice Inline Combo

Clam Gravity Ice Inline Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left
Gear Ratio: 3.6:1
Length: 28″
Ball Bearings: 3+1

Clam is known for making the lightest and most sensitive equipment on the market, and this combo is no exception. Whether you’re chasing steelhead on a river, trout in a stream, or bass in a lake, this rod and reel will let you feel every nibble. The graphite composite construction ensures smooth operation even under pressure, while the free spool tension knob lets you adjust to the perfect setting for your fishing style. And when it comes time to land that big one, the durable drag system will take care of it.

Pros
  • Durable Drag System

  • Graphite Composite Construction

Cons
  • A spinning reel is not powerful enough for a large fish

4# Shimano Sedona Ice Spinning Combo

Shimano Sedona Ice Spinning Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1
Length: 24″, 26″, 28″
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Action: Fast
Reel Size: 500

Shimano Sedona Ice Spinning Combo: designed for serious anglers who demand the very best gear. This reel is incredibly light and balanced, with a G-Free body construction that makes it easy to use all day long. The Magnumlite rotor ensures smooth operation, while the Cold-forged Hagane gears provide incredible durability.

Plus, the Propulsion Line Management System ensures smooth, consistent performance every time. The rod is built with superb sensitivity and precisely tuned actions, so you can feel even the slightest bites. Lighter actions feature a mix of Zirconia ring guides and coil guides, while heavier actions have all Zirconia ring guides for maximum durability.

Pros
  • G-Free body construction for easy use

  • Magnumlite rotor for smooth operation

  • Cold-forged Hagane gears for incredible durability

  • Propulsion Line Management System for smooth, consistent performance

Cons
  • The Shimano Sedona Ice Spinning Combo is a bit more expensive than other models

5# Pflueger Trion/Fenwick HMG Inline Ice Combo

Pflueger Trion Fenwick Inline Ice Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
Length: 23″, 26″, 28″
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Action: Fast

This Pflueger Trion/Fenwick HMG Inline Ice Combo is good for the professional angler. The reel features a composite frame, free-spool trigger system, and 3+1 bearing system, while the rod boasts a strong and sensitive solid glass blank with a fluorescent orange tip.

Pros
  • 3+1 bearings

  • Freefall trigger releases line when pulled

  • Magnetic brake provides reliable performance in all conditions

  • EVA knob for comfortable grip

Cons
  • Some customers complain about drag system

6# Abu Garcia Veritas Spinning Ice Combo

Abu Garcia Veritas Spinning Ice Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
Length: 27″, 30″, 28″, 34″
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Action: Extra Fast

The Abu Garcia Veritas Spinning Ice Combo is a top-of-the-line product for serious anglers. The graphite reel body and rotor provide strength and durability, while the Machined aluminium spool ensures consistent performance. The Everlast Bail System prevents line breakage, while the Rocket line management system makes casting easier than ever.

The Smooth 3+1 bearing system provides a smooth operation, and the 24-Ton graphite rod blank ensures sensitivity and power. The Stainless steel guides with Zirconium inserts provide extra protection against wear and tear, while the Abu ergonomic reel seat ensures a comfortable grip. Finally, the high-density EVA handle grips provide maximum control in all conditions.

Pros
  • Graphite reel body and rotor for strength and durability

  • Machined aluminium spool for consistent performance

  • Everlast Bail System prevents line breakage

  • Rocket line management system makes casting easier

  • Smooth 3+1 bearing system provides smooth operation

  • 24 Ton graphite rod blank ensures sensitivity and power

  • Stainless steel guides with Zirconium inserts provide extra protection

  • Abu ergonomic reel seat ensures a comfortable grip

  • High-density EVA handle grips provide maximum control

Cons
  • No cons

7# Eagle Claw EC2.5 Carbon Ice Spinning Combo

Eagle Claw EC2.5 Ice Spinning Combo

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 5.4:1
Length: 24″, 28″
Ball Bearings: 5+1
Action: Fast, Extra Fast
Reel Size: 500

Looking for a high-quality ice fishing combo that won’t let you down? Look no further than the Eagle Claw EC2.5 Carbon Ice Spinning Combo! This combo features a super-sensitive and well-balanced carbon ice rod blank, tangle-free guides with aluminium inserts, and a comfortable EVA butt grip. The included premium EC2.5 Size 5 spinning reel is also built to last, with a sturdy graphite body and a super-smooth 6-bearing system.

Pros
  • Super-sensitive and well-balanced carbon ice rod blank

  • Tangle-free aluminium guides with inserts

  • Comfort EVA butt grip

Cons
  • The combo is not well suited for heavier fis

8# Clam Straight Drop Ice Combo

Clam Straight Drop Ice Combo

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Specification

Length: 28″, 27″
Power: Ultra Light, Light

Finally a tool designed specifically for the serious panfish angler! The Clam Straight Drop Ice Combo drops your line down smooth and straight to those hard-to-reach depths, without coiling or memory fouling your line. Plus, its lightweight construction features a one-bearing drive for easy use and a comfortable grip.

The reversible one-way clutch bearing easily switches between right- and left-hand retrieve, while the super-sensitive glass rod provides accurate hooksets. With oversized fly guides and twister stripper guides, this combo is perfect for dropping small jigs or flies directly in front of those tight panfish spots.

Pros
  • Designed specifically for serious panfish anglers

  • Smooth and straight-line drop without coiling or memory fouling your line

  • Lightweight construction with a one-bearing drive

  • Reversible one-way clutch bearing for right and left hand retrieve

  • Super sensitive glass rod with accurate hooksets

  • Oversized fly guides and twister stripper guides

Cons
  • Uncomfortable grip

  • The line can tangle if not used carefully

9# Frabill Ice Hunter Predator Ice Spinning Combo

Frabill Ice Hunter Ice Spinning Combo

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Specification

Length: 32″, 34″, 38″
Ball Bearings: 5+1
Reel Size: 10

The Frabill Ice Hunter Predator Ice Spinning Combo is just the thing you need for a great day out on the ice. The solid graphite blank and stainless steel ice guides are built for durability, while the full-length reel seat ensures maximum power.

The easy-gripping EVA/rubberized cork handle provides a comfortable grip, and the smooth-running front-drag reel ensures a smooth experience. The 5+1 ball bearing system with infinite anti-reverse means you’ll always be able to get a good catch, and the multi-disc drag system provides plenty of power to land your fish. Finally, the convenient folding handle makes it easy to transport and store your combo.

Pros
  • Durable

  • Powerful

  • The smooth Running, reliable front drag system

  • Great Grip

  • Convenient Fold – Away Handle

Cons
  • The handle is not adjustable

  • No hole to store line or hook

10# Cabela’s Prodigy Ice Spinning Combo

Cabela's Prodigy Ice Spinning Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1
Length: 24″, 25″, 26″, 27″, 28″, 36″
Ball Bearings: 5+1
Action: Fast

The perfect ice fishing combo for those looking for quality without breaking the bank. The Prodigy Ice Spinning Combo from Cabela’s features a graphite rod for sensitivity, stainless steel guides for durability, and a comfortable cork handle. The 5+1 ball-bearing reel is smooth and has a quick 5.6:1 retrieve ratio, while the aluminium spool ensures longevity. Plus, the Instant anti-reverse gives you peace of mind when setting the hook. Finally, the aluminium handle with the Soft Touch knob provides a comfortable grip even when the temperatures are low.

Pros
  • A graphite rod is sensitive, stainless steel guides are durable

  • Comfort cork handle, 5+1 ball bearing reel with a quick retrieve ratio

  • Aluminium spool ensures longevity

  • Instant anti-reverse when setting hook makes it easier to land fish

Cons
  • Lack of versatility because the reel and rod are connected

11# HT Enterprises Fast Stix Extreme DX Ice Spinning Combo

HT Enterprises Fast Stix Ice Spinning Combo

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
Length: 24″, 28″
Ball Bearings: 3+1

Introducing the HT Enterprises Fast Stix Extreme DX Ice Spinning Combo – the perfect tool for anglers looking to up their game on the ice. Featuring a revolutionary Fast Stix premium E-glass rod, this combo offers superior backbone and sensitivity, fast action with a highly responsive “spring tip” and lightweight, easy-ice-out guides.

The spinning reel is rated for 4-6 lb. line and comes with a smooth 4-bearing drive and quick 5.2:1 gear ratio. Plus, the “Total Touch” cork handle with exposed blank provides an unbeatable combination of comfort and sensitivity. Get ready to experience the next level of ice fishing with the HT Enterprises FastStix Extreme DX Ice Spinning Combo!

Pros
  • Comes with a smooth 4-bearing drive and a speedy 5.2:1 gear ratio

  • Total Touch cork handle provides unmatched comfort that enhances sensitivity

  • Less than 3 lbs weight makes it easy to travel with

Cons
  • Limited Versatility

12# Shimano Sienna Ice Spinning Combo

Shimano Sienna Ice Spinning Combo

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1
Length: 28″, 26″
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Action: Fast
Reel Size: 500

If you’re looking for a tough, reliable spinning combo that can handle any fish imaginable, the Shimano Sienna Ice Spinning Combo is your best bet. With a graphite frame, side plate, and rotor, this reel is built to last. The Dyna-Balance system ensures smoothness and accuracy with each cast, while the Varispeed Oscillation ensures consistent line lay.

The Power Roller provides extra power and durability when fighting big fish, while the Aluminum spool with Propulsion Line Management System ensures trouble-free casting. This combo also features a quality 3+1 bearing system with Super Stopper II for smooth operation, as well as a smooth, sturdy drag for fighting those big fish.

Pros
  • Built to last

  • Graphite frame, side plate, and rotor

  • Dyna Balance system for smooth castings and better accuracy

  • Varispeed oscillation for consistent line lay on the water surface with every cast

  • 3+1 bearings system for smoother operation, along with a smooth and sturdy drag that can withstand big fish

Cons
  • It can be difficult to find replacement parts

FAQ

What is a good walleye ice rod?
A good walleye ice rod is something that is strong and durable. It should be able to handle big fish and be able to withstand the cold weather. There are a lot of different ice rods on the market, so it is important to do your research before you buy one.
What is the best length for an ice fishing rod?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best length for an ice fishing rod will vary depending on the type of fishing you plan to do. However, a good rule of thumb is to go with a rod that is at least seven feet long, as this will give you plenty of reach and help you cast further.
What line do you use for ice fishing walleye?
When ice fishing for walleye, you will want to use a line that is heavy enough to get the job done. A good rule of thumb is to use a line that is six times the weight of the fish you are targeting. So, if you are fishing for walleye, you will want to use a line that is at least 36 pounds.
What size reel is best for walleye?
When fishing for walleye, you’ll want to use a reel that can handle lots of lines. A good size reel for walleye is one that holds 250 yards of a 12-pound test line. You’ll also need a sturdy rod that can handle fighting a big fish. A 6-foot-6 medium-heavy rod will work well.

Conclusion

Now that you have read our buyer’s guide to the best ice fishing rod and reel combos for walleye, you should be able to make an informed decision about which combo is right for you. We have included a variety of top-rated combos as well as some helpful tips on how to select the right one for your needs. Thanks for reading!

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

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About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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