Ice Fishing Basics
Are you intrigued about ice fishing? Maybe just curious what is enjoyable about getting on the ice. Not sure if it is worth spending much money on it? As much as we would all love to have a SnoBear and a 34’ custom Ice Castle complete with underwater cameras and fish finders connected to the big screen TV on the wall. You do not need that to get started or for that matter at any time.
The entry point can be extremely minimal cost wise. With open water fishing often there are places you cannot access without a boat. Often the shoreline of a lake is all private property except for a public boat launch. Once the ice is safe you can access many locations unavailable to you previously.
First and foremost do not go out on ice that is unsafe. Ask questions at your local Tackle Shop about local Ice conditions and what makes safe ice in your area. Don’t try to get out too early in the season. Go out with someone who can show you how to test the ice if you are unsure .
At a bare minimum you can get by with a stick and some fishing line however an ice fishing rod and reel combo is relatively inexpensive. $20-$40 dollars on the low end. The reels are usually poor quality but will get you on the ice. If your YouTube followers won’t give you grief you can use that Barbie pole that is in the garage. The one you got for the kids a few years back that got used for 7 minutes. However an inexpensive ice rod combo will get you started. many come already with line on them. A few small lures or jigs recommended by the tackle shop for your area or possibly just hooks with bait if legal in your area. A few small jigs might set you back another $10.
No auger , No problem , once someone leaves to go home the hole they drilled is up for grabs. Even the next day an old hole may only have an inch of ice on it. Bring something along to break ice in an old hole and you are golden. Warm clothes , a thermos of coffee, a 5 gallon bucket that you already have and you will be set.
Even if you are unable to borrow a rod you should be able to get on the ice for under $50 . The next step would be a scooper to scoop the ice from the hole. Some of those have chisels on the other end to chip ice or a yardstick on the handle to measure your 40” northern pike. Eventually you will want a way to drill holes. A chain saw is not optimal but there are hand augers if cost, weight or local regulations require it. Used augers are readily available.
After that you can start to make it more comfortable. A hub or flip-over shelter , a heater and lights and foam floor tiles.
Next thing you know , Winter will be your favorite time of year.
