One of the winter pleasures is ice fishing. So, if you are a summer angler, now is the time to enjoy your favorite outdoor activity, regardless of the season.
It is not necessarily easier, but many anglers seek the challenge of ice fishing. Some of the interesting things you might not experience in summer include the serenity and solitude of cold weather, as well as other obstacles. You will also benefit from a bug-free environment.
Of course, you’ll need to make some adjustments to your gear and attire if you want to fish all year.
I’ll go over some of the most important things you should know before going ice fishing.
5 Tips to Consider Before Going Ice Fishing
1. Safety when ice fishing
While ice fishing, your safety comes first, just like any other outdoor adventure. When going out, the most important safety precaution is to tag a friend. In the event of an accident, you should always have someone available to assist you. Hypothermia can strike at any time and kill quickly. Furthermore, having someone respond to an emergency as soon as possible saves the day.
Inform someone at home about your day’s activities, such as the location of your ice fishing trip and your expected return time. If you do not return by the expected time and no one can reach you, they may contact emergency services for assistance.
Another important safety tip is to keep a throw rope, cell phone, life jacket, floatation suit, first-aid kit, and ice rescue claws or picks with you at all times. While this may appear to be a lot, it is better to have them because they will come in handy in an emergency. Before using the ice drill for the first time, read the owner’s manual. When mishandled, the tool is used to drill holes and can cause injuries.
Before walking to your fishing spot, always check for points of weakness, such as discolored, wavy, or broken patches. Make sure you’re walking on ice that’s at least four inches thick. Ice should be at least a foot thick when driving.
As you walk, keep checking because the ice thickness may vary from one foot to the next due to undercurrents. Please do not take any action unless you are certain it is safe for you to do so.
Finally, it is critical to depart from your fishing spot before dusk. It can be difficult to find your way off the ice at night, especially if you don’t have a navigation device.
2. Ice fishing gear you will need
You’ll need to purchase basic fishing equipment, such as a rod, an ice skimmer, a drill or ice auger, and a few jigs, before heading out to your fishing spot. You can use your regular fishing rod, but if you plan to ice fish frequently, you should invest in an ice fishing rod. It’s easier to keep it clear of ice and keep an eye on your fishing from closer to the hole.
Aside from the essentials, you’ll need proper clothing to keep warm. A waterproof jacket, ice fishing bib, moisture-wicking base layer, sweatshirt, long underwear, waterproof boots, thick wool socks, gloves, ski mask, and hat are all essentials.
Another piece of equipment to consider is an ice fishing shelter. Though not required, it makes your time on the ice more comfortable, particularly on windy or extremely cold days. Furthermore, if you intend to fish for long periods of time or bring your children along, the shelter will come in handy.
3. Fishing species to expect
The available fish species are determined by the exact angling location and the size of the water body. It is best to conduct research on the best lakes and species that can be found in order to plan the best ice fishing method to use.
The majority of the fish available during the winter are the same as those available during the summer. Because fish do not simply leave the waters, you can catch sturgeon, trout, walleye, pike, sunfish, perch, bluegill, and crappie during the cold season.
However, your fishing style will undoubtedly change. Because of food scarcity and cold water, fish move more slowly in the winter. As a result, fishing techniques like light rod angling, tip-up fishing, spear-fishing, and clubbing are effective. To land a catch, be slow and easy!
4. Familiarize with ice fishing basics
Before you go ice fishing, get to know the local laws and regulations. Additionally, keep your fishing license on hand at all times.
To get to your catch, you must also drill a hole in the ice. Once on the ice, you’ll dig down through it with an ice saw, auger, chisel, or drill.
The diameter of the hole should be 8-10 inches. This is small enough that people will not fall in by accident but large enough to pull the catch through. When your hole is finished, use ice skimmers to keep it clear and ice-free.
5. Patience pays
It may sound strange to say that patience pays. However, before you go ice fishing, you must learn to be patient and expect to be patient. Because the fish are slow, you may strike out and return home empty-handed on your first trip. Don’t give up! Use your failure as a learning experience for your next trip.
If you’re determined, you could spend the entire day fishing on the ice. Bring food and other distractions to help you pass the time while waiting for the catch. To avoid boredom, you can bring a dog along and watch it play with balls. Hot drinks and water are also required to keep you hydrated throughout the day!
Summary
Ice fishing is the key to turning the drab winter months into a pleasurable and rewarding experience. Keep safe, dress appropriately, get the right gear (you can repurpose some of your summer gear), do your research on the best ice fishing location and species to expect, know the basics, and most importantly, be patient. You will become a pro with time and practice!
About the author:
Name: Ally Mash
Bio: Ally has spent much of his free time backpacking through South America and other parts of the world as an avid outdoorsman. He enjoys blogging about what he sees and sharing what he sees with others at Adventures Pursuit! His goal is to change people’s minds about the importance of protecting our planet, which we all need if we want to keep this beautiful planet around us for future generations to enjoy.
