The12″ ADAPTERcan be used on open water and ice fishing. This allows the forward facing to be easliy removed for the CT360 pole for storage. One side is attached with a 1/4-20 bolt which secures adapterand the lanyard to the 12″ section ofpole. The lanyard has a stainless pin with a ulock to keep the adapter secure to the other section of pole. The pin allows for quick and easy removal.