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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
- Easy-to-use 4” color fishfinder with built-in, high-sensitivity GPS
- Includes dual-beam ice fishing transducer with Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar for crystal-clear images and remarkable target separation
- Includes built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping
- Find fish; mark and return to hot spots, docks and ramps
- Rugged, portable carrying case to fit accessories
- ✔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...
- GRIPS ON SLIPPERY SURFACES: Walk confidently with these slip-on traction cleats designed to evenly distribute underfoot traction across ice- and snow-covered surfaces, as to provide stability on rocky...
- STAYS STRONG IN COLD WEATHER: Thermoplastic rubber sling won't degrade, crack, or fail in cold temperatures for durability that lasts through repeated uses; plus, the thermoplastic is completely...
- 360-DEGREE UNDERFOOT TRACTION: Innovative coil technology provides 360-degree stability when walking forward, backward, or even laterally across snow-packed surfaces
- EASY ON, EASY OFF: Thermoplastic sling with heel tab for easy installation and removal combines the stretchability of rubber for a comfortable fit over a variety of footwear shapes and sizes with the...
- COMFORTABLE, MULTI-SURFACE TRACTION: Coils are crafted of durable, corrosion- and abrasion-resistant steel that adapts to different terrains, with no sharp edges to damage surfaces, footwear, or...
- 36 pcs ice fishing jigs set
- ice fishing jigs with fly box
- types ice jig sets
- two sided fly fishing box , clear cover
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.
- 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.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & HEAVY DUTY NYLON MATERIAL: This ice fishing auger is made of durable nylon material. It has good tensile, impact resistance and rust-proof, which keeps ice auger bit lightweight while...
- UNIVERSAL ADAPTER & BIT-SAVEING TOP PLATE: The adapter allows you to connect the auger with various kinds of the drill. The top plate is slightly wider than the auger flights for easier control and...
- SHARP & STURDY BLADES WITH A GUARD: VEVOR ice augers is made of premium steel, sharp and sturdy, cut through ice like a hot knife through butter. In addition, the edges come with a blade guard, which...
- WITH EXTRA EXTENSION ROD: The length of extension rod is 14 inch. With this rod, the effective length of this ice auger can be extend from 41 inch to 55 inch.(how to stall: detach the adapter and top...
- ICE AUGERS FOR ICE FISHING: The effetive length pf ice drill auger is: 41 inches, rotating diameter: 6 inches, weight: 11.13 lbs/5.05 kg. Very suitable for ice fishing enthusiasts due to its...
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 【100% comfortable 】100% nylon Oxford fabric,100% polyester wool lining with PU coating
- 【Adjustable】 Adjustable bottom, with elastic cord and stopper, adjustable cuff with armband tag and Velcro, D-ring on two cargo pockets
- 【Warm Pocket】 with wool-lined hand warmer pocket, inner pocket and YKK zipper, sports float technology for increased buoyancy (PFD not approved by Coast Guard)
- 【Reflective tape】 There is reflective tape on the back hem and tape at all seams
- 【 Multiple sizes 】 Size :L-XL-XXL
- 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
- 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.
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.
- 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
- ✔️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 .
- Outdoor fishing net:out of material, it can be folded in a small shape, lightweight and portable,creative fish net
- Large capacity fishing net:this fishing net with ground nail is suitable for fishing, crabs, shrimps, and else seafood,fish trap
- Professional fishing net:cast the net to wait for the to come in, and they would not again get out of the net,fish catching net
- Fishing net basket:owning the and break resistance ability, very durable,lightweight fish trap
- Lightweight fish net:can be the your friends who like to catch , very useful,fishing net bag
- 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...
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!
