Ice Fishing necessities

[Cubbyblue22]

It's the first week where I can tell winter is here to stay which usually makes me pretty upset but this year I'm thinking of investing into ice fishing. It's always something i've wanted to do but never had the money, now the cash is in hand and i'm ready. I've been looking at so many different items and things to get it's almost overwhelming. I was wondering if you could list some of the things you consider a must when traveling onto the ice to go fishing. Thanks!

 

[dwco5051]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

The only things required are safe ice, a way to put a hole in the ice, tipups and/or jigging rods, and bait.

For a check list on safety and comfort equipment check this site;

http://fishandboat.com/anglerboater/2001/jf2001/playicechart.pdf

Really all that is need to start out is a couple of tip ups and a jigging rod. I would suggest you find a buddy that already ice fish's and ask him if you can tag along. If you are lucky they may already own a power auger If you do not know any hard water anglers just show up at your local lake where they are already fishing and ask questions. Almost all ice anglers I have met are more than willing to share their knowledge.

 

[jessytimothy]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

Good to share with us. I like to suggest you that before went this place you must have to require safe ice. Which way to drill a hole in the ice, bait and jigging rods as well as tip-ups.

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

Minnows, minnow bucket, warm clothes, extra warm clothes, heater, shanty, auger, jigging rods as mentioned, brandy/whiskey, a good buddy and maybe an AM radio to catch a hockey game.

I was thinking about building a shanty this year but I think I have enough work to do on my boats over the winter to stay busy.

Many folks in northern Michigan use quads or snowmobiles to pull shanties out to the walleye spots. Not required but lots of fun

Good luck!

 

[windy5849]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

Nothing is as important as a good set of boots with felt liners.Your going to be standing or sitting on a five gallon bucket jigging and your feet WILL get cold quickly with regular boots.A set of spikes for those boots are also a must if there is no snow cover on the ice.There's nothing more exciting than seeing that red tip up flag in the air and wondering what's on the other end.Enjoy the season and good fishing.

 

[Thames_Outdoors]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

a HEATER for me... LMAO

 

[losede]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

Definietely, if you have a power outage for more than i day id say it would be a very good thing, the fish need air and heater and although they would be fine for a few hours (mine have gone a day w/o power) more than that would probably harmful to them.

 

[fisherguy123]

Re: Ice Fishing necessities

2 pieces of 2'' thick styrofoam about 16'' x 16'' ....1 for under your butt other for under your feet .