Jigging for northern pike...fiberglass or graphite?

[Icefish4Life]

This season I'm going to start jigging for pike (of all sizes), and I'll be using lures like jigging rapalas and buck-shot rattle spoons.

Any feedback on what type (fiberglass vs. graphite) of rod would is prefered would be appreciated.


Thanks.

[iceintheveins]

Graphite. A lot more backbone to hammer the hook into a big, bony mouth.

[PigShanks]

I use a 36" Stainless Steel rod for pike. I've had way to many fiberglass and graphite rods fail when trying to land the big ones.

[grumpymoe]

glass....graphite just wont cut the cold...Grump

[Water Wolf]

I have used both for pike but have found the fiberglass is a bit stiffer and can really set the hooks into their tough mouths.
A sticky sharp hooks is essential to.

WW

[iceintheveins]

glass....graphite just wont cut the cold...Grump

I honestly don't have a problem with Graphite Rods in cold weather. Here in Colorado 20 below zero is common and with the vicious mountain wind it can be as much as 50 below with the windchill. Never had a problem landing 6 pound rainbows, 16 pound macks or 20 pound pike with graphite in the cold. The only two graphite rods I have ever broken ice fishing were from clumsiness.

I find graphite to be stiffer, more sensitive, and with more backbone than fiberglass. Therefore I do not use fiberglass rods for ice fishing.