What I’ve Learned Guiding the Webster Area and Choosing the Right JT Rod
One thing I have noticed over the years guiding in the Webster area and throughout the Glacial Lakes region in South Dakota is how often rod selection gets overcomplicated. I run JT rods and keep a wide selection on hand at all times, not because anglers need a dozen different rods, but because different situations and different anglers call for different tools.
Where things tend to get tricky is when people are asked how often they fish or what they typically target. Most of the time, and this is not meant as an insult to anyone, people unintentionally exaggerate their experience level or how specialized their fishing really is. It happens a lot at sport shows or when talking to dealers and pros. Not because anyone is trying to be dishonest, but because it is hard to accurately describe how you fish in a quick conversation.
What I have found is that this can lead anglers toward rods that are more specialized than they actually need.
If someone tells me they are coming to Webster or the Glacial Lakes region to ice fish, chances are very good that the majority of their fish are going to be perch, crappie, bluegill, and walleyes. They might tangle with a pike now and then. Every once in a while, they might run into a true trophy walleye in that upper 20 inch class. But realistically, about ninety percent of the hook sets are going to be walleyes in that 21 to 22 inch range and under.
That reality is why, when I am guiding, I hand someone a Shiver Stick about ninety percent of the time.
The Shiver Stick is often overlooked, but for this region it is one of the best all around ice rods you can own. It has the versatility to fish for perch, crappie, bluegill, and bass effectively, yet it has enough backbone and forgiveness to handle larger walleyes and pike. The way it absorbs head shakes, manages runs, and stays loaded on bigger fish makes it extremely forgiving for anglers of all skill levels.
Is every lake and every presentation different? Absolutely. Lure size, depth, and fish behavior all matter. But based on what I have seen guiding this area consistently over the last six years, the Shiver Stick checks more boxes than almost any other rod for the Glacial Lakes region.
Choosing a new ice rod is not always easy. There is a lot of information out there, and a lot of opinions. My best advice is to do a little research, talk to guides and pros who fish the water you plan to fish, and most importantly be honest about how you actually fish. That honesty leads to better recommendations and, ultimately, a rod you are truly happy with long after the purchase.
The right rod does not just help you catch fish. It helps you enjoy your time on the ice more.
Learn more about JT rods:
👉 https://jtoutdoorproducts.com
If you decide a JT rod is right for you, you can use promo code TOMTOM at checkout to save a little extra. Just a small thank you for the support and trust.