I have worked extensively with Marmish and find them great rods for ice fishing in that I can get lure actions that no other rod will create. Not to mention that they're easy to pack and carry! And yes, there is a proper way to use them. I will explain the way that was taught to me, face to face, by the company owner. Basically what you do, when you sense a strike is to drop your wrist, then lift up with your elbow. This allows you to set the hook and bring up the fish with all the stress/tension on the line. The rod is not designed to fight a fish like a "normal" fishing rod does. You then hand-over-hand the line like a tip up. It takes awhile to get used to, but once you do get the hang of it, you'll love it. As for line weight to use on them, I've used everything from 1# test to 4# test. I usually fish panfish, so that's what I like. Some are afraid to use 1# test, but I've caught everything from small gills to 1# + perch and bass on it. You just have to be careful! Hope this helps. If you have any more questions, feel free to message me. Good luck!