The one about HANDLES

Everywhere I turn the buzz of another hard water season can be felt. With that comes the great gear debates of 2019. How does this work compared to that....  would you rather... lets take a look all those options you have when it comes to handles.

So I’m at looking for a new ice rods and there are so many different options out there. Sure Grip or Cork, and then you have split grip vs straight handles. The first is arguably just preference but I do prefer the Sure Grip option. The non slip semi tacky grip gives me extra insurance when the once in a lifetime fish crushes your bait without warning.

 Let’s talk handle options...

First off is the split grip option. I tend to use the split grip option to maximize feel, lure control, and comfort for fishing finesse presentations. To do this you utilize what is known as the pistol or pencil grip. This grip allows for maximum contact with the rod blank and allows you to use your wrist for making the very subtle movements used when chasing panfish with finesse plastics or walleyes with light spoons. The second advantage to this grip and style is the speed you are capable of achieving when setting the hook, simply flick your wrist!

Now onto straight grip ice rods, in my humble opinion is that this handle is best used on longer heavier power rods such as the JT 40” Black Reign. This particular rod has a very long straight grip handle which I really prefer when chasing large heavy fish like lake trout, burbot, pike, or those champion eyes. Having the straight grip has several critical benefits when chasing the trophies. First when utilizing the over the top grip like you would on an open water rod you can tuck the handle against your forearm to reduce wrist fatigue while aggressively jigging the big heavy lures those big fish prefer. Second having the handle tucked under your forearm aids in delivering rock hard hook sets to drive home the barbs into those hard mouthed predators. Third a lot of time these fish are not going to give up easily. This handle position will aid in those long battles. Lastly when talking about these large handles you can’t under estimate the advantage to reel placement. A properly balanced rod is key to those long days of jigging especially with those large baits. I personally prefer to set my reels 3/4 of the way up on the handle which gives me the balance I prefer for lures up to 1.5 ounces.

Andy Schutte 

JT Outdoors Contributor