Image Source: FreeImages
You’d think ice fishing would be about as simple and straightforward as an outdoor activity can get. You’re essentially sitting on a frozen lake, after all, with a fishing rod in your hands. That sounds pretty straightforward to us! However, it’s not quite that simple… There are actually several factors to take into account before heading out onto the ice. For instance, how thick is the ice? Where is it safe to venture and where might there be hidden dangers? How cold will it get? And so on… It is much trickier than you might think! As such, we thought we’d put together this guide on everything you need to know before setting off on your own personal mission to find the perfect piece of ice that meets your needs and requirements. So read on for our essential ice fishing tips…
Decide on your equipment
There are some essential pieces of equipment that every ice angler should have in their tackle box before they set off on their trip. And remember, having the right equipment and tackle can make a huge difference the success of your ice fishing trip.
- Tungsten Ice Fishing Jigs Kit: High-quality tungsten ice jigs are made of tungsten, tungsten is heavier than some other materials, which means you can use a much smaller ice jig and have the same...
- UV Glow in Dark: 45 pcs of teardrop tungsten ice fishing jigs with ultra-sharp hooks and paint-free eyes. Glows brightly! These tungsten ice jigs glow very well, Bionic color coating and excellent...
- Increase Hook-Up Rate: Superb quality premium Japanese hooks, and tungsten ice jigs are proven killers for panfish through the ice. Attractive high quality glossy paint bionic color coating, realistic...
- Waterproof Jig Box: Put the glow tungsten ice fishing jig in the jig box for better carrying and storage, more convenience and safety, bring a better ice fishing experience. MUUNN Jig box is made of...
- A Great Value Gift: Tungsten ice jigs are regarded as the best for ice jigging due to their optimal size-to-weight ratio. You can give them as ideal gifts for your families or friends who love ice...
- Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
- Ice picks help you climb out in the event of an emergency situation where you fall through the ice
- Designed to be worn | Simply hold one handle in each hand then put on your jacket or coat | Ice Picks will stay at the base of your sleeve to be easily within reach in the event of an emergency
- Retractable guard on each pick
- Cord stretches to 72 inches
- Increase your chances for success on the ice this season with the Dr.Fish Ice Catcher 24" Ice Fishing Rod Reel Combo Complete Kit with Backpack Seat.
- 24” ice fishing rod features solid graphite blank provides superior sensitivity and comfortable handles ensure comfortable operation in freezing winter.Rod type: spinning
- 5BB spinning reel with spare spool makes everything easier to bring crappie, pike and walleyes up on the ice.
- Amazing assortment of ice fishing lures including balanced lure like jig rap, jigger shads, jig head and soft plastic worm. All in the most productive pattern.
- Other key unit including two ice bomber, one backpack seat, one storage box. All are strictly selected to assist ice anglers to catch more walleyes, pikes and crappies on the ice.
- Creative Design: The retractable design allows you to adjust the length you want. The longest length can be adjusted to 31.7inch, which helps the fisherman to fish out the broken ice when ice fishing.
- Material: The ice scoop is made of high quality plastic and the pole is made of aluminum alloy. Sturdy and durable, it can be used for a long time. Keep fishing hole clear of ice and snow with ice...
- Easy to Use: This ice Scooper is very hardy in the cold winter, comfortable in the hand, and easy to carry and store. When not in use, contraction can be stored, do not take up too much space.
- Ideal Gift: It can be used as a gift for friends who like ice fishing. For ice fishing enthusiasts, ice skimmer scoop is a good helper, can better clean the ice.
- Tips: If you are not satisfied for any reason, just return for a refund of your purchase price; we promise 24 hours customer support, please feel free to contact us for any product & order problem.
- Various Sizes & Colors Ice Fishing Lures: A variety sizes of ice fishing lures and colors gives anglers options to adapt to fishing conditions. Two Ice Fishing Jig Kit to Choose: 6PCS, 20pcs.
- Glow in Dark: Ice fishing jigs have luminous effects, Great for darker water and low-light conditions, the micro ice jigs have the ability to attract fish from a wider area. Note: When using luminous...
- Attractive Jigs: These hook rigs are brightly colored and have vivideyes, making them excellent baits, makes ice fishing jigs more attractive.
- High Sharpness: The hook can effectively ensure the continuous sharpness of the hook tip after repeated grinding, and has a barb, reduce the probability of decoupling, increase the possibility of...
- Best Fishing Gift for Angler: A Great Ice Fishing Gifts for lover! A variety sizes and colors of ice fishing lures gives anglers options to adapt to fishing conditions.
Here is what you should consider before setting off:
Check the ice thickness and conditions
Knowing the ice thickness and its condition will help you decide where to go. If you’re fishing on a frozen lake, you can use your foot as a gauge to check the thickness. If you can’t get your foot through the ice, it’s probably safe to fish. But you should also check the thickness with a ruler or an ice spud. Remember, don’t rely on the color of the ice as this can be misleading. Dark-colored lakes are often thicker than lighter colored ones. If you’re fishing on a river, there are a few ways to check the thickness. First, you can use a ruler or an auger. If you hear the sound of water, you’ve hit a soft spot, which means the ice might be thin and unsafe. You can also check the area around the riverbank to see how thick the ice is there and use that as a gauge for the rest of the river.
- CROSS-BOLT TAKEDOWN SYSTEM: Prevents over-tightening when you drill. Superior to screw-together hand augers
- HANDLE AND POMMEL KNOB FOR EASY DRILLING
- DUAL-FLAT BLADES
- BLADE PROTECTOR INCLUDED: Extends the life and sharpness of the blades
- 39" Shaft with Lightweight/Durable Synthetic Nylon Flighting & Aluminium Stem Reduces Weight
- Maintains Flexibility & Impact Resistance in Cold Temperatures
- Dual Flat Steel Replaceable Blades Offer Smooth Cutting & Break-Through
- Razor Sharp Steel Blades Along with Center Point Blade Promotes Stability and Smoother Cutting
- Efficiently Transfers Power from Drill to Cutting Head. Fits Almost All Brands 18V-20V 1/2IN, Drill Chuck
- CENTERING ICE POINT: The 8" Pistol Bit (#35600) features a centering point to help keep the bit in place when initializing the cut.
- ENGINEERED NYLON/POLYMER FLITE: Keeps the unit lightweight while maintaining flexibility and impact resistance in cold temperatures.
- HEXAGONAL, ALUMINUM INNER STEM SHAFT: Efficiently transfers power from drill to cutting head.
- HIGH-STRENGTH POLYMER CUTTING HEAD: Reliable performance in all conditions. Aggressive design cuts through ice quickly and smoothly.
- REPLACEABLE STEEL BLADES: Dual flat steel blades offer smooth cutting and breakthrough. Can be replaced.
- WEIGHS UNDER 20 LBS. – Lightest steel auger in its class at 19.3 lbs.
- FULL POWER 40V – A powerful 40V motor designed to get the most holes out of a lithium powered auger.
- VARIABLE SPEED TRIGGER – Trigger can be dialed back to slower speeds, ideal for minimizing the mess of ice shavings inside shelters or wheelhouses.
- 4 AMP-HOUR LITHIUM BATTERY – Designed for cold weather performance.
- 2-AMP CHARGER – Re-charges 4Ah batteries in approximately 2 hours.
- 🧊Universality: Designed with user convenience in mind, this ice fishing auger is compatible with most standard ice auger powerhead(18-20V, 1/2''), allowing you to use it effortlessly with your...
- 🧊Efficient Cutting: The ice fishing ice Auger's X-shaped dual blades and center point blade design ensures stable drilling and easily pulls ice chips out of the hole, penetrating the ice with ease.
- 🧊Safety: PPOLB ice auger bits are equipped with floation foam and top plate to prevent accidental sinking while drilling, so you can focus on the fun of fishing without worrying about your gear.
- 🧊Durable Structure: This ice auger is solidly constructed with a 40'' shaft made of lightweight and durable aluminum. Enhancing strength while ensuring the tool is lightweight and easy to use and...
- 🧊Nylon Material: PPOLB ice auger's auger flighting and blade base are made of durable nylon material, which is lighter in weight and maintains flexibility and impact resistance in cold...
Bundle up!
You might think that you don’t need to bundle up as you’re fishing in the cold. However, this is not the case. Ice fishing can actually be a very dangerous activity and the cold weather can be just as much a threat as the ice. That’s why it’s very important to bundle up correctly and prepare for the worst. This will not only help you protect yourself from the cold, but also from the dangers of ice fishing. When choosing your ice fishing clothing, it’s best to go for a thick and warm material, as thinner fabrics will not keep you warm in freezing temperatures. You should also look for fabrics that are water-resistant or water-repellent. This will help protect you from the elements and keep you dry and warm as you fish on the ice.
- WATERPROOF DESIGN: 100% nylon seam-sealed waterproof/windproof shell has been improved to be more comfortable and more flexible. Moisture and water droplets roll off easily for dry relief.
- WARM INSULATION: Durable water-repellent coating on the shell as well as upgraded 150-gram 3M Thinsulate insulation provides warmth for very cold conditions.
- WEATHER THE STORM: Elastic panels at the sides and a quick-buckle web belt provide a comfortable fit while ensuring mobility and unrestricted range of motion for on-board tasks.
- CATCH & RELEASE: 2-way thigh-high leg zippers with storm flaps and adjustable cuffs make it easy to slide these waterproof ice fishing Bibs on/off over layers and boots. Plus, handy pass-through...
- CARGO POCKETS: Two bellowed hook-and-loop cargo pockets keep essential gear close at hand while you navigate your way to a successful day on the water, regardless of the elements.
- Insulated and Windproof - Piscifun Ice Fishing Jackets use our windproof surface fabric paired with 100% Polyester thermal insulation material to provide extreme comfort and warmth. The flannelette...
- Waterproof and Breathable - The Ice Fishing Jacket is water resistant due to DWR Coated Polyester and fully taped & sealed seams. Piscifun’s unique fabric increases breathability while maintaining...
- Safe Flotation Technology - Piscifun Professional Flotation Technology allows an adult to stay afloat in the event you would accidentally fall through the ice while fishing. The interior mesh hem...
- User Friendly Safe Design - The safety whistle is convenient to signal for help in an emergency. The reflective strips and printings in the front and back of the jacket improve the night safety and...
- High Quality and Eye Catching - The precision stitching, sewing process and YKK 2-Way zipper all ensure a high level of durability and quality. We partnered with Veil Camo to bring you this awesome...
- FIT: Adjustable suspenders offer customized fit, plus elasticized side gussets to accommodate extra mobility. Please see size chart to ensure you get the proper fit
- THERMALOCK: 8000mm WP WR resistant coupled with Critical seams are sealed for added protection from the elements; ALL-WEATHER PROTECTION protects against the COLD, SNOW, RAIN and WIND
- THERMATECH: This technology removes the bulk and weight of the insulation, allowing greater mobility. Keeps you warm at temperatures from -20 to plus 35 degrees depending on the activity. Engineered...
- DURABILITY: 100% Polyester BALLISTIC 600 Denier Oxford found on the Ankles, Hem and Scuff Guards help resist daily wear and tear
- ADDED FEATURES: Fleece-Lined Hand Warmer Zip Pockets for added security; O-ring for keys, gloves, and lift tickets; Boot Gaiters with Grippers form a seamless integration with boots to keep the warmth...
- Superior Waterproof Fabric - The Ice Fishing Bibs have a guaranteed water resistance due to DWR Coated Polyester and TPU Coating, all seams are taped for 100% waterproofing. Piscifun’s unique fabric...
- Safe Flotation Design - Due to the new buoyant cotton material, Piscifun ice fishing bibs are warm and an will keep an adult afloat in the event you may fall through the ice while fishing. There is a...
- Warm & Windproof - Piscifun Ice Fishing Bibs use our windproof surface fabric paired with 100% Polyester thermal insulation cotton to provide extreme comfort and warmth. The flannelette lining pockets...
- Wear Resistant & Protective - Use wear resistant materials for knees and hips, and provide an EVA protection plate on knees ,double protection from frostbite. Reflective strips spread over the chest,...
- High Quality and User Friendly - YKK two-way main zipper makes it easy to put on and take off; The underarm sides and waist are made of elastic design, which can accommodate any shape and get a good...
- Durable and reliable NORTEX BREATHABLE winter suit featuring 160g THERMOGUARD insulation to protect from the cold and wind.
- NORTEX BREATHABLE material perfectly holds the insulating, warm air and retains the warmth of the body. When moving the excess moisture and sweat are discharged to the external layers of the fabric,...
- Built-in flotation assist by Norfin FLT provides excellent floating capabilities in a lightweight manner. Quick-drain technology on parka hems & bib cuffs allows water to rapidly escape the garment.
- Superior design allows for free movement during active fishing situations and ensuring warmth in temperatures down to -5°F.
- Insulation: 160g THERMOGUARD + FLT foam, Waterproofing: 6 000 mm, Breathability: 4 000 g/m²/24 hours.
Ice fishing nets
An ice fishing net can be a very useful tool to have on hand. Ice fishing nets are designed to help you bring your catch up from the frozen depths without having to break the ice. These come in many different forms and styles, with some being more suitable for particular fishing styles and terrains than others. There are a few things you should consider when choosing an ice fishing net. The first is the size of the net. This is particularly important if you’re planning to fish in a large group with a variety of people of different ages. You don’t want to end up with a net that is too small for the intended user! Another thing to consider is the material of the net. Ice fishing nets are available in a few different materials. You can choose between metal and plastic ice fishing nets.
- Live Well for Fish: this ice fishing well features 2 nets with an 8-inch opening and depth of approximately 35.4 inches; You have a backup prepared for unexpected situations; The net also makes a nice...
- Stable and Durable: our fishing nets are designed with a pearl foam opening to keep them afloat during usage; This innovation prevents your net from getting stuck at the ice fishing hole or getting...
- Quality Material: the fish live well boasts a nylon coating helps wash off scales and mucus cleanly, promotes quick drying, and offers durability; Plus, it's frost-resistant, a feature that makes it...
- Portable and Compact: our live fish baskets are feather-light and fold down easily for convenient transportation and storage; When collapsed, these baskets are incredibly compact, saving you valuable...
- Wide Application: if you don't like to clean fish in the cold winter, you can clean the fish by pulling it through the water several times. You can also float it next to your kayak or canoe, use it as...
- Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
- This minnow net features a molded polyethylene net guard that eliminates abrasion when scraped against the inside of bait tanks
- Nylon mesh netting is soft and bait friendly
- Lightweight floating handle for easy retrieval if dropped
- Great for bait dealers
- NO-SLIP LOOP ATTACHMENTS – Firm loop and belt system securely attaches net to shelter frame.
- QUALITY CONSTRUCTION – Reinforced netting holds gear firmly within the cargo net.
- STOW-READY FLEXIBILITY – Can be stowed while attached to shelter frame, or easily removed.
- PREMIUM FIBERGLASS METERAIL : Featured with High-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass pole which makes the fishing net solid and durable, ensure long term performance and reliable use.
- DURABLE RUBBER COATED MESH : Waterproof and non-absorbent rubber coating is knotless to prevent fishhooks from getting tangled.Lightweight soft mesh will not damage fish. This fishing net can be...
- TELESCOPIC FISH LANDING NET : Foldable design, retractable pole and ultralight framework ensures you can carry and keep this net with ease. Skid-resistant EVA handle help you catch fish safely and...
- EASY TO OPERATE : Specially designed with rotary switch for easily locking and fastening.You can easily adjust the pole to a suitable length.
- Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions for product of you buy. We will reply your email solve your problem within 24 hours.
- Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
- Hoop Size: 8" x 6" | Fixed Handle Length: 18" | Netting Material: Nylon | Mesh: 3/8" | Net Depth: 4"
- Sturdy D-shaped hoop maximizes bait trapping capacity
- Nylon mesh netting is soft to avoid bait stress or injuries
Tips for safe ice fishing
– Be careful at the edge of the ice. The ice may look thick but there can be soft spots that you cannot see.
– Wear warm clothes and keep dry and warm. You don’t want to go into hypothermia as this can be fatal.
– Wear safety gear such as a life jacket and a helmet.
– Avoid driving on the ice. You never know how thick it might be and it can break at any moment.
– Don’t go alone. Always go with a buddy and let someone know where you are going.
– Take a first aid kit with you in case of an emergency.
– Stay away from gas-drilling rigs.
– Use a fish finder to locate your best fishing spots.
– Use an ice spud to test the thickness of the ice.
– Avoid going alone if you have no experience.
– Stay away from pressure ridges and cracks.
– Use an auger to test the thickness of the ice.
– Call for help if you get stuck in the ice.
– Remember to use caution and always be careful.
– Be prepared for the worst and hope for the best.
Conclusion
If you’ve never tried ice fishing before, now is the perfect time to go! It’s the perfect activity to do with friends, family, and loved ones, to enjoy the last weeks of winter and the first weeks of spring. Just make sure you know what you’re doing before you set off and take all the right precautions and gear!
