Thank you, Bearcat. Much appreciated
.

I was not planning to do epoxy, I would like the look and feel of regular concrete but sealed, to protect against salt, oil, etc. This project will be completed prior to moving in.

I live in Muscatine and can vouch that the melons grown here are amazing. Locals would say a true Muscatine Melon is grown just south of town on Muscatine Island, where the sandy soil conditions are perfect for growing melons. Iowa State University has a research station on the island to study melon production. As stated above, Musk melons are not named after Muscatine just a fitting coincidence.

Didn’t catch that, I must need to invest in some reading glasses.

Thanks for the advice and responses. I was originally looking at the 13 Fishing Omen ($60) but at that price point, I’m thinking maybe it might be worth it to spend the extra $40-$50 to get a higher-end rod. Based on the feedback, I’m looking at the Thorne Bros. Perch Sweet Heart, TUCR Precision or JT Shiver Stick. Any pros/cons or recommendations for these rods? Should I pair with 500 or 1000 size reel?

I agree, going to the store and holding the rods in person is important and I will before I finalize a purchase. Our local Scheels seems to have good inventory, the problem is finding a sales associate in Iowa that is experienced in ice fishing; maybe that’s an unfair assumption. I was hoping to have some education before I went in store so I had an idea of what I what I was looking for. I appreciate the responses so far.

Thanks, for the replies. I think I’m going to pull the trigger and buy, since it seems like people like the other rod models by 13 fishing.