G. Loomis Tackles Hard Water with New IMX-Pro Ice Rods

Action, sensitivity, and purposeful construction are the driving forces behind G. Loomis’ new line of IMX-PRO Ice rods, a 12-model lineup that’s soon to be available at tackle shops in October.

The IMX-PRO Ice series includes 5 rods with solid graphite blank construction for panfish and lighter applications as well as 7 tubular graphite blank rods for targeting walleye, northern pike, lake trout, and other larger species.

The G. Loomis crew began the development of the IMX-PRO Ice rods in January of 2019 during a trip to Lake of the Woods, perfectly coinciding with the week of the infamous ‘Polar Vortex’ weather event. As the crew ventured out onto the ice in morning temperatures hovering at 50 below zero — and never going above 30 below zero for nearly four days —they experienced ice fishing in its utmost extreme.

“Knowing that our goal was to design the best ice rods for any and all conditions, we quickly learned our full cork grip design and the use of REC recoil guides was a must,” said David Brinkerhoff with G. Loomis’ design team. “Our continued research in much better weather conditions during later trips that season as well as last winter led us to utilizing split-cork grips on our lighter power rods to enhance strike detection and hook-setting performance.”

The 5 light action rods with solid-blank construction include 29-, 31- and 33-inch sizes in light and medium-light power, while the medium-light, medium and medium-heavy tubular blank models are offered in 33-, 35-, 37-, 39- and 40-inch sizes. All of the new IMX-PRO ICE rods feature G. Loomis’ Hybrid Guide System and ultra-lightweight REC Recoil guides to resist ice freeze-up. They have solid stainless-steel tips for increased rigidity and consistent shape and hook-keepers. Offered with a 5-year limited warranty, all 12 rods have a suggested retail of $199 (USD).