Don't ever grab the rod above the cork. I blew up two brand new "seconds" Iron Fetahers on 25 pound kings in Upper Michigan about 8 years ago. I have been a "non toucher" ever since.

There are better ways to fight fish. If you're using lighter gear, you have to expect that it's going to takle a while, so don't rush it. With those Piggie nates of yours, I would jump up a rod, have a little fun, and get those big boys back in the river to fight another day. I'm bumping up to a little stiffer rod for the Spring Zipper trip, as I feel that I dinked around with those nates a little too long. Remember, it took Ali about a week to recover after fighting Frazier.

If you have deep pockets, grab the rod by the first guide, as you get really good leverage, and it's a cheap way to make components for a high performance ice fishing rod.