My first ice rods

[SpartyOn]

I have been wanting to make some of my own rods for ice fishing for awhile now since I have never been able to really find the rod that I want.  I usually fish in a shanty of some sort and like having a short rod.  I also like the ability to easily remove a reel if needed and not worry about tape or anything.

I like the compact handles on the Rip City custom rods so I got ahold of someone in their customer service and got them to send me 4 handles off of some broken rods they had.  I then drilled out the old epoxy and rod blank so I could insert my own.  Next time I plan on using a similar 2 part reel seat and some cork to make my own handles and just need to find out what rods blanks I like best that give me the action I am looking for.

I will probably also look at the HT Accucast reels with their direct to guide technology since the rods are so short and compact (14" in total length). I must say I am very happy with them though.

What 'cha think?

[farm-boy]

Looks good I use the cheap five dollar poles hahaha

[SpartyOn]

Well because I got the handles for free in this case I have less than $3 into each pole this time around.  I would say for that price I will make my own rods any day.   I also think that even in buying the handle parts I can make one for right around $10.  And thats in cutting the rod blank down to the length I want.  I think people would be surprised at how cheaply you can make a really nice rod.

[farm-boy]

Since ur so good at it I would appreciate it if u could send me one

[SpartyOn]

Just try and build one yourself if you can't find what you're really looking for in a rod.  Its real easy and you can get all the supplies you need at:

http://www.mudhole.com/ or http://www.jannsnetcraft.com/

[gv-me-ice]

I just finished a little 24" myself out of a old 10' noodle rod.  Good job.

[GCD]

Those are pretty dang sweet!... especially for home made jobbies!!!

[riverjunky]

looks good. get them out and get the lines wet and let us know how they work

[Fatfish]

I have made my own,Cabelas has a wood barrel full of tips with broken rod tips,for $2.00 each. I have made some of my own this year. The best I can find is from a fly rod. Real sensitive,and very light,with a reel and line I don't have over $12.00 in the whole thing,and they work great.   Jerry

[SpartyOn]

Thanks for the comments guys - will be ehading out this weekend to test them out.

[geothefisher]

Good luck with them, there is nothing like catching fish on equipment that you made. 

[bassbull]

Looks very good to me.I've done the same thing in the last couple of years.The rods I made are also only 14 inches in length (2 rods).My old eyes and shaking hands any more need to be closer to that spring bobber as I can get.Also helps when trying to adj. the Marcum every so often. Its well with in reach at all times.