HACKENSACK, Minn. — In a sport that has exploded with expensive technology in recent decades, like $400 battery-operated augers, $4,000 electronic fish-finding video-like sonar systems and $40,000 ...

Holdersonice.com tip-down ice fishing rod holders, which react to the slightest bite of any fish, helped catch this mess of perch and walleye, said inventor and owner Dwight Kurz, of Hackensack, Minn.

This rod holder has a wide mounting collar, a stainless steel gimbal bar welded in place, and a vinyl insert to protect the rod butt from damage. The Omega offers easy adjustment and locks position ...

Fred Peterson, a second-generation member of the family, operates the original die-casting machine still used to make Down-East rod holders in Lewiston. Credit: Courtesy of Steve Peterson It was a ...