I prefer graphite type of rods with their fast action and load. For the most part I like to use my Thorne Bros. Panfish Sweetheart and Perch Sweetheart rods. Between the two rods I will still start with the Panfish Sweetheart first.
Before that, I was a St. Croix fanboy and I used a lot of the St. Croix ice rods I like the ML in 28 inches as it seems to be quite versatile. The current model would a Mojo Ice rod. This year's cosmetic touch is an unpainted dark grey rod and black synthetic grips. They look really nice but there's nothing wrong with my old Premiere Ice and old purple blood Mojo Ice rods.