I would go with a Frabill 38" ice hunter "gussy" heavy action with a 1000 size shimano loaded with 10lb power pro. Many lakers and pike have fallen to that combo in my hands and I feel for what you pay ($35) it is head and shoulders above many rods aimed at pike and lakers. It's got s 9" handle, large guides, and a soft tip that transitions quickly into a stiff backbone. I've caught lakers to 20 pounds on this rod/reel combo and never felt under gunned. It's a very lightweight combo as well so a 8-10 hour day of jigging is very doable. An honourable mention would be the daiwa triforce rods sold by the fishin hole. They are more parabolic than the frabill but still bring the fight to the fish. You could buy one of each and still be in the ball park of 1 st.croix rod.
Good luck with your choice.
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