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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.
- 36" Ugly Stik rod paired with a 30 size spinning reel that comes pre-spooled with 6 lb fishing line
- Cork and EVA grips with twist lock reel seats
- Ugly Tech construction with a combination of graphite and fiberglass to create a strong, yet sensitive rod
- Ugly Tuff one piece stainless steel guides provide excellent durability and eliminate insert pop-outs
- Ugly Stik Clear Tip design for strength and sensitivity
- Complete Fishing Tool Combo: The KastKing SteelStream 6 piece Tool Combo includes essential fishing tools for a seamless fishing experience
- High-Quality Materials: Crafted with precision, the combo features a 7” fishing pliers made from S45C carbon steel with a polymer corrosion-resistant coating for longevity. The fishing pliers...
- Razor-Sharp Fillet Knife: The 7” fillet knife is constructed from 420 Stainless steel, known for its toughness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. With a non-slip rubber handle, the...
- Corrosion-Resistant Fishing Scissors: The combo includes braid scissors made from 420 stainless steel, featuring a serrated edge and a corrosion-resistant titanium coating. The soft rubber handle...
- Secure and Durable Accessories: This combo also provides a floating fish lip gripper designed to prevent sinking and fish lip punctures. Additionally, a tool retractor keeps your tools securely...
- 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.
- ✔UPGRADED FISH GRIPPER- ZACX improved the length of EVA Foam Handle till to 4.3inch for this classic T-handle grabber, this new fishing lip gripper with ergonomic to enhance hand strength and reduce...
- ✔NEW DESIGN FISHING PLIER- New aluminum fishing pliers, it’s feature elegant hollow out design and machine cut aluminum handles for reduced weight, multi-functional for braid line cutters split...
- ✔MORE CONVENIENT OPERATE- Higher quality spring loaded handle keeps it open freely, super easy to use by one hand, come with lanyard which prevent accidental loss and always easy to reach
- ✔STURDY AND DURABILITY- These pliers and grippers are ideal for both freshwater and harsh saltwater environments, corrosion resistant, extremely light for long time fishing trip
- ✔BEST GIFT FOR FISHMAN- Cool gift for angler friends or family. Such as Father's Day or Valentine's Day Style A Package: 1x fishing gripper; Style B Package: 1x Fishing Tool Set ( 1 fish lip gripper...
- ✦ Fish Finder and Depth Finder : It is a portable fish finder that could display approximate fish location and water depth. The sonar transducer can be attached to the hull of kayak or boat in order...
- ✦ Helpful Data Display : Besides fish depth and water depth, the handheld fish finder will also display short & tall weeds, sand & rocks on the bottom. Meanwhile, the measurement unit of the depth...
- ✦ Handheld & Portable : The size of kayak fishfinder is designed for just one hand held. You will find a neck strap in the package which allows you to wear it around neck when you are busy on the...
- ✦ Fish & Fish Schools Alarm : Once the toss fish finder transducer into the water and turn on the display unit, you will get alarms when fish or fishing schools passing by. The portable fish finder...
- ✦ Ideal for Fishing & Fishing Gift : It is easy to use LUCKY depth finder in boat fishing, ice fishing, shore fishing no matter in freshwater or in saltwater. If you are looking for a gift for your...
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.
- 33CC VIPER 2-CYCLE ENGINE: Cold-weather tested
- QUANTUM AUGER: Ideal for re-drilling holes with its unique centering ring
- PRECISION, STAINLESS STEEL BLADES: Blades last longer and hold their edge in dirty ice. Blade protector included to help further extend the life of your blades
- STAINLESS CENTERING POINT: Keeps the auger stable on uneven ice, or when re-drilling old holes
- ALL-METAL TRANSMISSION: Offers optimum gearing
- Length adjustment bolt to extend auger length up to an additional 24 inches.
- Unique flip-down handle packs away for transport, and securely locks in place for drilling.
- Includes two chipper-style blades and blade protector.
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
- 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.
- Length adjustment bolt to extend auger length up to an additional 24 inches.
- Unique flip-down handle packs away for transport, and securely locks in place for drilling.
- Includes two chipper-style blades and blade protector.
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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 AND BREATHABLE - 100% Nylon Oxford Fabric with PU coated and 100% Polyester Tricot Lining for comfort whether in cool or warm weather. So when the wind and rain gets bad you will remain dry...
- YKK ZIPPERS - Both the jacket and the bibs have weatherproof YKK Vislon Aquagaurd Zippers. This means you don't need to take you jacket and bibs off to go to the bathroom. That is convenience!
- TONS OF POCKETS - Between the bibs and the jacket, there are 11 big pockets. Both the jacket and the bibs have fleece lined hand warming pockets and pockets large enough for a full size smart phone.
- FULL SIZES - Available in sizes between: Large - XLarge - XXLarge.
- PROFESSIONAL ICE FISHING COMPANY - Who is THUNDERBAY? We are a professional ice fishing equipment supplier. THUNDERBAY are always looking for ways to implement the latest features, materials and...
- Belt is included. Snow hiking pants are made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex, which are water-resistant and windproof when it is cold and drizzly outside. If you walk in the small rain, it can help...
- Windproof winter pants with fleece lining, keeps you warm and dry in the cold and windy weather. Or you can put on another layer for added warmth
- Mens skiing pants featuring adjustable waistband with belt to adjust waist freely.Flexible 2D cut knee design can move stretchly without restriction
- Multi zipper pockets can keep your phone, keys, credit cards and other personal belongings safely while skiing or biking.
- Mens Snow Ski Hiking Pants suitable for cold weather biking, outdoor hiking, snow fishing, snow hunting, skiing, snowboarding, camping, cycling, yard working, walking and shopping
- UPLYFT BREATHABLE FLOTATION – Offers safety-enhancing flotation-assist, in a breathable form factor unique to Eskimo. Sweat and moisture are allowed to escape the fabric and move away from the skin,...
- DURADRY FABRIC – Lightweight, tough, and durable polyester fabric. Windproof with DWR, and a 5k/5k Waterproof/Breathable rating.
- TAPED SEAMS – Fully-taped seams for complete waterproof protection, shielding from wind, rain, snow, and ice.
- INSULATED – 60gm of insulation for added warmth and comfort.
- SIMPLE LENGTH ADJUSTMENT – A simple, 3 inch fold-up hem with hook-and-loop tape provides versatility to adjust the pant length to your preference.
- SPECIAL DESIGN: Our balaclava designs movable in breathable face mask. This design is convenient that you can move the face part if you no need. But you don't worry the winter cold close to your head...
- BREATHABLE SKI MASK: The mouth part and nose parts design with breathable mesh, and the face parts to design fleece fabric. The warm fleece warms your face, as the same time, the mesh not fogs up your...
- PROTECT SKIN: Soft fleece material and breathable mesh, they are skin-friendly and keep warm, while antistatic and does not irritate the face skin. Our ski balaclava protects your face and neck skin...
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL BALACLAVA: The face mask for cold weather can be used as a balaclava, pirate hat, full & half face mask and neck warmer, perfect fits to different occasions. It will meet your need...
- UNIVERSAL SIZE: Soft elastic fleece material that can cover your head, ears, neck and face and provide the ultimate warmth protection and comfort in winter. So one size can fit most head size and no...
- Are you a fisherman? Do you have all the winter fishing equipment and accessories like a fishing rod, jigs, shelter tent and electric ice auger or gas powered post hole digger? This ice fishing...
- This unique design features a ice fishing power auger with the fishing saying: Drill it till it Squirts! Perfect Christmas, holiday, or birthday present for the man who loves to hit the lake for...
- 8.5 oz, Classic fit, Twill-taped neck
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.
- ✔️Simple：Small shrinkage and easy to carry.
- ✔️Universal Suitable : The fish net can be commonly used to raise fish , squid , small fish , crab , shrimp , lobster and so on .
- ✔️The fish net cage si rugged and durable .
- FLOATING FISHING BASKET: Dovesun Fishing Cage with A circle of foam and floating cord with a length of 2.6M(8.5FT), which allows the top end of the net to float on the water, thus allowing the bait...
- ABRASION-RESISTANT NYLON MATERIAL: Our Fishing Bait Bag is made of very durable and wear-resistant nylon woven mesh. The edge of the net is reinforced with double rubber coils makes the net...
- EASY TO CARRY: With two braided steel wires, the net is divided into two layers, making it collapsible and convenient to carry outside. Also added a hand strap. And the mouth of the net is designed...
- DETAILS OF USE: It has a very dense mesh, which is perfect for live bait (small fish and shrimp) and ensures that the bait is fresh. Can be used to keep fishes/smelt/minnows/crab/shrimps/lobsters or...
- FISHING CAGE DIAMETER: Loadable weight: 5 gallons. Maximum diameter at the opening:16.5in(420mm). Fishing net height: 15.7in(400mm). Cord length: 106in(2.7m). Diameter of the bottom of the fishing...
- 【Efficient Design】: This Fishing Net Fishing Cage is designed for optimal efficiency and effectiveness; it features a opening for easy entry of fish and a secure closure to prevent them from...
- 【Ease of Use】: Our Fishing Net Fishing Cage is incredibly user-friendly. It is lightweight for easy handling and transport, and it can be effortlessly deployed and retrieved.
- 【Precision】: The Ice Fishing Well is designed with precision in mind Its dimensions are carefully calibrated to maximize catch rates while minimizing the chances of entanglement.
- 【Durability】: Crafted from quality, weather-resistant materials, the Fishing Net is designed to withstand harsh marine environments. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can resist the wear and...
- 【Versatility】: This Fishing storage Cage is highly versatile. It can be used in a variety of aquatic environments, from freshwater river and lakes to saltwater seas and oceans. Whether you're...
- 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.
- ❤ HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL: Made of strong nylon mesh and galvanized metal, and the bottom is reinforced with load bearing, the small meshes avoids fish escaping out.
- ❤ FOLDABLE DESIGN: Fish basket adopts a 5-layer folding design, It is quick and easy to set up and take down. Storage up when not in use, Saves the Space.
- ❤ OVERSIZED DESIGN: Large capacity can hold more fish. Diameter: 13inch/33cm; Height: 59inch/150cm; Not only the appearance is exquisite, but also very suitable for gift giving.
- ❤ KEEP AIR CIRCULATION: The size of the mesh hole is about 5*5mm, which can ensure that the river water can fully enter the fishing net, so that the internal air can be better circulated, so that...
- ❤ PERFECT FOR FISHING ENTHUSIASTS: A fishing net to be universally used to keep fishes, crab, lobster, minnows, shrimp and crawfish etc.
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!
