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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.
- INSIDE EACH BOX: Each Mystery Tackle Box contains about $25 retail value of the best quality fishing lures specifically designed for Ice Fishing (5-7 Items).
- EXCLUSIVE PRODUCTS: Designed for freshwater ICE FISHING, you'll get exclusive and limited edition fishing products inside each Mystery Tackle Box.
- EXPERT CONTENT: Tips, tricks, and instructions to learn new techniques and help you catch more fish.
- IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: We know a thing or two about packing a box full of fish-magnets. We've been doing it since 2012. Rip this fishin' kit open and start discovering new fishing lures & techniques to...
- BEST FISHING GIFT: Makes a great last minute gift for the ICE angler in your life!
- KEY FEATURES – KastKing winter fishing gloves for men or women have open finger slots for dexterity - Hook and loop catch holds fingertips open – Smart phone friendly fingertips – Anti-slip palm...
- FUNCTIONAL FINGER SLOTS –Snug fitting slots in 3 fingers and thumb permit you to expose only finger tips and not your whole hand to cold weather. Hook and loop material on the fingers and thumb of...
- SMART PHONE FRIENDLY – Special material integrated into the finger tips allows you to use touch screen phones without exposing your fingers to the elements. Can also be used as photography gloves...
- ANTI-SLIP PALM – Designed with a fleece lining, waterproof back and soft neoprene and microfiber palm, KastKing Mountain Mist gloves will keep your hands warm in cold conditions. The microfiber palm...
- Prym1 Camo – “BE THE PREDATOR” with American born Prym1 Camo. KastKing is proud to partner with Stacie Walker a wildlife artist and founder of Prym2 Camo. Stay protected from the elements in...
- Size 20 spinning reel suited for ice applications
- Ported aluminum spool
- Genuine ugly Stik blank with clear tip design
- Twist-lock reel seat with EVA handles
- One-piece stainless steel guides
- Key Features – 100% waterproof – Bound stitched, and glued seams – Fleece lined for warmth – Anti-slip embossed palm – Material remains pliable in extremely cold weather conditions –...
- 100% WATERPROOF – KastKing IceRiver gloves are 100% waterproof. These gloves are manufactured with 2.2mm neoprene rubber material for excellent water resistance. All seams are bound, stitched, and...
- FLEECE LINED – The IceRiver gloves are lined with a 1mm layer of polar fleece to provide extra warm in extremely cold and wet conditions.
- Flexible Anti-slip Palm – The 2.2mm neoprene palm is design with an embossed non-slip pattern that provides additional gripping strength in any weather conditions. The neoprene material maintains...
- Prym1 Camo – “BE THE PREDATOR” with American born Prym1 Camo. KastKing is proud to partner with Stacie Walker a wildlife artist and founder of Prym1 Camo. Stay protected from the harsh winter...
- 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
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
- 5 AMP HOUR, GEN 1 BATTERY: This Gen 1, 5 Amp Hour battery offers a 60% higher storage capacity than the original ION battery. This extra capacity powers the 8" ION R1 through up to 1600" of ice on a...
- 30% FASTER CUTTING SPEEDS: A re-optimized power system makes the ION R1 more powerful, offering up to 30% faster cutting speeds than previous Gen 1 ION augers.
- ION REVERSE: Reverse eliminates the need for an ice skimmer by flushing the slush ice down the hole.
- HIGH-STRENGTH COMPOSITE POLYMER CUTTING HEAD: Ensures smooth and consistent cutting in all conditions and easily re-drills old holes. Aggressive design cuts through ice quickly with an incredibly...
- AUGER CENTERING POINT: Allows for ultra-precise blade positioning when opening new holes, or re-opening frozen holes.
- 🧊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...
- 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.
- 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
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.
- 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...
- 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...
- HIGH-QUALITY OUTDOOR GEAR - Striker Trekker Bib for men is the best option for early and late ice, as well as cold and windy tournament days on the boat; It is built with super-tough 600-denier fabric...
- WELL-DESIGNED - These lighter-insulated but extremely tough Trekker Bibs from Striker will keep you protected, afloat, and warm; With an adjustable inseam and fast drain hems, they provide comfortable...
- SUREFLOTE FLOTATION TECHNOLOGY - Our unique Sureflote Flotation technology can keep an average person afloat for up to 2 hours; This technology has saved a number of lives over the years by providing...
- THERMADEX INSULATION - The Striker Trekker Bib is built with Thermadex technology that provides you with optimal warmth without all the extra bulk that comes with other insulating jackets; With 150 g...
- WIDE RANGE OF USES - These outdoor bibs are the perfect working man's accessory, but they can also be used during other activities where extreme weather could be a major factor, like skiing or...
- ULTIMATE WARMTH - Stay protected from heavy snow, high winds, and cold rain with the right insulated bib; The Striker Men's Predator Lite Bib overalls feature 40 g of Thermadex insulation, innovative...
- FUNCTIONAL DESIGN - Made with superior features for fit and function, these men's waterproof pants feature an adjustable inseam to accommodate height, extra knee and seat padding for maximum comfort,...
- CONVENIENT IN USE - Keep your focus on fishing and the outdoors without worrying about your gear; This Predator Lite bib from Striker features top-loading cargo pockets on the legs to keep your...
- SUREFLOTE TECHNOLOGY - Go ice fishing without worrying about the water; Our unique Sureflote technology can keep an average-sized person afloat for up to 2 hours; This safety measure has provided...
- WIDE RANGE OF USES - Striker creates premium, reliable, and safe outdoor sporting accessories, and our Predator Lite fishing bib is no exception; This piece is for anyone who wants to fuel their...
- CLICK Our Brand Link "Black Fly Creations" Top Of Page We Have A HUGE Selection of Fishing and Outdoor Designs For The Entire Family! Outdoor Apparel, Bass Fishing Fly Fishing Apparel Tackle & Fishing...
- Ice Fishing Jigs Flasher Graph Hoodies Shirts For Men Women Boys Girls!
- 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.
- 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.
- Durable Material: Ice fishing well is made of nylon, which is a breathable and fast drying material, with wear resistance and durability, frost resistance. It is extremely easy to wash and suitable...
- Exquisite Design: Adjust the drawstring by sliding plastic stoppers to prevent fishes escaping from the fishing basket.In addition, you can attach a towing rope to prevent fish from escaping. There is...
- Portable and compact: These live fish baskets are light in weight, which can be folded easily for carry and storage, compact size after folding,easy to carry and save space.
- Easy to Use: If you do not like cleaning fish in cold winter, fishnet bags are a good choice. You can clean fish by pulling them in the water several times. And you can float it alongside kayak or...
- Multi-Function: Ice fish catching basket can be applicable in cold winter, and also can be placed in the ice fishing hole to keep the fish alive. Great for catching shrimp, crawfish, fish, lobster,...
- 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
- Durable & buoyant: Shark Shooter Floating Fish Basket is made from tough Nylon coated mesh, ensuring long-lasting performance in the harshest ice fishing conditions. The floatable sponge ring at the...
- Special design: The side zipper of the floating fish basket allows for quick and hassle-free retrieval of your catch, while the reinforced bottom provides a secure hold for your prized fish.
- Convenient Portability: Convenient carry strap, Nylon fishing net can be folded easily for carry and storage.
- Versatile & Practical: Not just for ice fishing, our floating fish basket is also perfect for boating, camping, and other outdoor activities, serving as a versatile storage solution.
- 🐟【High Material】Ice fishing well made of nylon material ,cold resistant,frost resistant,easy to clean,and not easy to crack.The nylon bait net can protect fish well,works great for keeps fish...
- 🐟【Appropriate Size】The inlet diameter of the product about 9 inches,suitable for the vast majority of ice fishing holes.
- 🐟【Reliable Design】Adjust the drawstring by sliding plastic stoppers to prevent fishes escaping from the fishing basket.Come with a ice fishing accessories,you can attach a towing rope to...
- 🐟【Foldable and Portable】The single fish baskets just 3.5oz, which can be folded easily for carry and storage.
- 🐟【Multi-Function】 Ice fishing bucket can be applicable in cold winter, which can be placed in the ice fishing hole to keep the fish fresh. It also can be used as live bait bucket,minnow...
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!
