Ice fishing can be a lot of fun, but there are many things to consider when ice fishing that you may not be used having to think about. As with any type of fishing, ice fishing requires good ice fishing gear to make the most out of your techniques and skills, but it also requires special consideration for the environment and the cold. These considerations relate both to your success fishing, as well as your safety.
If you are going to spend a short day ice fishing do not assume that you can bring next to nothing and be successful and safe. Your rod should have large guides, a sensitive tip and a pretty stiff overall feel. The preferred reel is a micro-spinning reel. Your line should be no less than four pounds and no more than eight pounds and should be specially designed for ice fishing. Crappie minnows, fatheads, and wax worms all work well as bait. Bring a variety so that you can change the bait out if it does not seem to be working. You should also bring some picture identification, your fishing license, hand warmers, a assortment of pliers, a compass, line cutters, a small shovel, and if possible ice picks as well.
If you are fishing with other people you should determine ahead of time what everyone will be bringing. If someone else is already bringing a piece of ice fishing gear that the group will not need multiples of, you can save space and weight by not bringing it yourself. You also want to be sure that important items are not left behind because everyone assumed the other members of the group would have them. Anything can happen while ice fishing, so you should be over prepared rather than under prepared.
If you are going to be spending a lot of time on the ice you may want to bring some more serious gear to make sure you are safe and successful. A fish finder can be a huge help. For safety and comfort an ice shelter, heater, and spud bar are very important. A spud bar allows you to check the thickness of the ice. Ice cleats can also help you remain sure-footed and safe while moving around on the ice. A cell-phone and GPS unit can also help you in an emergency and are better than a compass.
Try to add as many odds and ends to your ice fishing gear list as you feel you will need. Extra gloves, matches, food, and drinks can make you and your group more comfortable and help pass the time faster. Also, sunglasses can be important. While many people would not think sunglasses are needed while ice fishing, the sun can reflect off of the ice and cause eye damage or discomfort. Sun glasses can not only make you for comfortable, but protect you from permanent eye damage as well.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Holding stripers
By: Fitzy | 01-08-2008
What is the best way to hold a striper when removing the hook????i've been all freshwater my whole life but only did a little salt from time to time. i want to get a little more knowledge on the subject before i go out and catch the bigens'.,...
Trolling motor batteries
By: fishguy08 | 31-07-2008
Im wondering what the smallest size battery i can fit on my RiverGuide lite boat for my 30# thrust motormade by waterskeeter, the website is www.waterskeeter.com. Or can i mount a small 4 stroke engine on the back of this boat. Let me know. Thanks
Trout in a swimming pool
By: Mark | 31-07-2008
Is it possible to modify swimming pool water to house trout for a weekend in the fall and then remove them and close the pool for the winter? I heard of a place in Southern Australia that puts trout in their pool for fishing weekend before they close it for the winter. This is for a large commercial swimming pool.
Flathead fishing
By: gar man24 | 30-07-2008
i live in council bluffs iowa does anyone know wat a good bait to catch flathead on the river?any suggestions will b accepted.tyvm!
Trout Fishing areas.
By: Sandie | 30-07-2008
Is there a site that contains Nevada and Northern California trout fishing lakes and streams?
Catfish
By: afton | 29-07-2008
I just caught freshwater catfish, what should I feed them?
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Sports and Fitness Articles
The Impressive Texas Longhorns
By: Bobby Brister | 12/10/2008
The University of Texas has a very interesting history. Even in the early 1800, Texas has already wanted a public university. However, circumstance prevented it from turning into a reality. The realization of the movement to establish of such institution took a long time, but it did. The University of...
The Secret About Online Golf Tips
By: Maxx Johnson | 12/10/2008
In looking for online golf tips I always go back to one of my father's sayings, "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is." Everywhere you look, there are free golf lessons, online golf tips, and golf instructions of how to swing a golf club. Not only...
Ways to Lose 10 Pounds and Look and Feel Great
By: Peter Woronoff | 12/10/2008
several strategies to lose 10 pounds quickly and look and feel great
Supplies to Pack During Your Fishing Outing in Alaska
By: Trevor Price | 12/10/2008
So, you've finally booked that Alaska fishing trip. After years of dreaming of King Salmon, massive Halibut and incredible Rainbow Trout, you're finally getting there. But, what are you going to pack? How will you stay warm on the water and cool in the hot sun? What kind of equipment...
How Fun Casino Hire Can Benefit Your Corporate Events
By: Arthur Else | 12/10/2008
When your company is planning a special event, whether it be for company employees or to attract potential clients, there are quite a few options to consider. However, none may be as successful or entertaining as a fun casino hire. By using fun casino for your next event, you are...
A Breakthrough In Wet Suit Design
By: Shaun Parker | 11/10/2008
A look at how difficult it can be for a surfer to negotiate a wet suit and how new design ideas are coming on the market to make it easier.
Workout Routines: Essence And Benefits Of Cardio Training
By: Ana Orwel | 11/10/2008
Today fitness has become an absolute essential considering the kind of life styles we follow. Exposure to a fast paced routine and junk food has resulted in a number of mental and physical and even psychological ailments that affect the overall quality of life. However, the remedy is in your hands. Utilize cardio training and gain its benefits.
10 Fave US Bowling Centers
By: Christa Kowalczyk | 11/10/2008
As the top participatory sport in America, there are roughly over seven thousand bowling centers in the United States.
AMF Bowling Centers, Inc. is America and the world's biggest bowling chain. It is joined by other bowling centers such as Brunswick Recreation Centers, The Active West, Inc., Bowl America, DON Carter...
Sports and Fitness 
| Posted: 19-06-2007 | Comments: 
