Ice Fishing Tips

Ice Fishing Tips

David Sparks Ph.D.
David Sparks Ph.D.
The cold temperatures are settling in, and the visions of open water fishing are coming to a close. Ice anglers all over have already taken to the early ice in pursuit of that first and quite often a very good early ice bite. Here are a few tips to help you put more fish on the ice this season.

1. Safety is the number priority. Never takes ice conditions for granted. Just because you see someone way out on the ice doesn't mean it's ok to venture out there yourself. The ice conditions will vary from spot to spot, and not everyone has the same sense of security on the ice as others. Never step onto the ice without a good set of ice picks around your neck. You should carry a rope and keep your cell phone in a plastic bag just in case you are unfortunate enough to test out your float suits capabilities.

2. Mobility is crucial as you need to be able to get up and move at any moment. A flip-over shelter is perfect for the run-and-gun angler as it will allow you to cover ice fast and efficiently. As the weather and the light conditions change throughout the day, anglers need to make adjustments and make them fast, as the bite window in ice fishing may only last an hour on many occasions.

3. Rod and Line for the right situation make all the difference. Many anglers tend to use too heavy of gear for targeting panfish and too light of gear for targeting tanker walleyes. Matching your rod and line to the technique of fishing and species you are targeting will significantly improve your odds.

4. Details and paying attention to them will help you land the big fish this ice season. Graphs that put out noise as they ping the bottom for obstructions such as fish or structure may be all it takes to keep a fish from visiting your location.

5. Playing the Odds. Typically anglers will start in shallow water in the morning and move deeper throughout the day.

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