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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.
- ✔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...
- 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...
- ✦ 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...
- Extreme Accuracy: The Dr.meter Fish Scale can weigh both small and large catches alike, from a mere 0.2 lbs to a jaw dropping 110 lbs. The state of the art weight sensor provides precise measurements...
- Bonus Built-in Tape: Maybe you also want to know the length of your catch besides weight. We've got it covered! The included measuring tape is ideal for measuring items in either cm or ft. (up to 3...
- Luggage Scale with Hook: Crafted from premium stainless steel, the large and durable hook concealed in the back slot is convenient for you to hook up and remove from fish's mouth, luggage and...
- Endless Possibility: The Dr. meter Electronic fish scales digital weight boasts the specialized functions like weighing unit conversion, data lock, and auto-off function, definitely good news to the...
- On-the-go Tool: Go easy on your hands even after long-term use. This lightweight and portable comes with a built-in carrying strap for easily carrying and using. Better yet, we've included 2 AAA...
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.
- 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
- 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
- 【Sharp Thickended Blades】Compared to other similar products,we are the first to add two Blades on the Auger Drill Bit.These blades are made of 65 high strength manganese steel,which is very hard...
- 【Tungsten Steel Cemented Carbide Twist Drill Bits】We use a solid twist drill as the drill bit, which can bring a greater impact on the soil. This twist drill is made of Tungsten Steel Cemented...
- 【Specification】4 inch diameter x 16 inch length. Work with most 3/8" or larger chucked drill.
- 【For Ice Fishing】 The upgraded auger drill bit not only can work on hard soil and little rocky soil for all plants in the garden,but also can dig holes on ice. It is very suitable for ice fishing...
- 【30 Day No Risk Guarantee】This product is equipped with a no risk 30 day satisfaction guarantee. If it’s not perfect for you, you can return it.
- 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.
- 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...
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...
- HIGH-QUALITY OUTDOOR BIBS - Designed for women, the Striker Prism Bib is a highly functional garment loaded with features ice anglers will appreciate; Whether you're participating in winter sports or...
- WATERPROOF & BREATHABLE - The Striker Prism Bib features a Hydrapore Waterproof 5,000 mm and a breathable 5,000 g rating offering waterproof coverage for protection from extreme outdoor conditions;...
- OPTIMAL FIT - Integrated side stretch panels on the upper bib provide support and stretch in all the right directions; The placement of the suspenders on the back along with hidden waist elastic...
- FUNCTIONAL DESIGN - Pockets for ample storage throughout the bib help carry the essentials in addition to cozy hand warmer pockets on the upper bib; These outdoor Prism bibs for women feature magnetic...
- 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...
- 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...
- Product Included: You will receive 1 piece of jet sled cover. There is a storage bag included, which is convenient for you to store the jet sled cover when not in use, so that it will not take up too...
- Reliable Material: The ice fishing jet sled cover is made of quality 600D Oxford cloth, not easy to break or wear, water-proof and sun-protection, which can effectively protect your equipment in sled...
- Size Information: The sled travel cover measures about 68.9x33.46x7.87in/175x85x20cm, which is applicable for common sized sleds. Please carefully check the size of your sled before purchase. Be sure...
- Thoughtful Design: There is a drawstring on the sled cover, which help you fix the cover tightly on the sled so that it won’t be blown up by strong wind in cold winter and keep items in sled from...
- Wide Application: Our ice fishing sled travel cover not only can be used for ice fishing, but also applicable for hunting, camping or other outdoor activities. It can provide full protection for the...
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.
- MINNOW DIP NETS BULK
- MINNOW DIP NETS BULK
- MINNOW DIP NETS BULK
- MINNOW DIP NETS BULK
- MINNOW DIP NETS BULK
- 【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...
- Durable & High-Strength Design: The KastKing Titanet landing net is built with a high-quality 6063 aluminum alloy handle featuring a custom-engineered aluminum tube profile for superior strength. A...
- Fish-friendly Coated Net : The knotless, tangle-free net is made from PVC-coated nylon, reducing fish stress and minimizing potential harm, making it ideal for catch-and-release fishing. Its design...
- Foldable & Space-saving Storage: Designed for convenience, the folding net head allows for easy transport and storage. Simply slide the locking collar toward the handle to fold the net in half. It...
- Enhanced Grip & Visibility: The ergonomic elastomer handle features a textured pattern for a secure grip, even in wet or cold conditions. Its high-visibility orange color makes it easy to locate on a...
- Versatile & Convenient Features: The Titanet landing net includes an elastic lanyard with a carabiner for easy attachment to your kayak, waders, or tackle bag. Its lightweight yet rugged construction...
- Lightweight 6061 Aluminum Handle: Crafted with a 6061 aluminum handle, this fishing net with handle is both strong and lightweight. The anodized finish boosts corrosion resistance, ensuring...
- Nylon & Reinforced Composite Frame: A tough nylon and reinforced net structure, plus a sturdy locking collar, make this landing net an essential piece of gear built for long-lasting performance.
- Bright Blue Elastomer Grip: The non-slip elastomer handle stands out among your fishing accessories, so you can locate it fast. You can be confident in wet or cold conditions with a secure grip that...
- Foldable & Space-saving Design: Slide the locking collar to fold this fish net in half, minimizing storage needs. It’s perfect for keeping with your fishing stuff or boat accessories without...
- High-strength, UV-resistant Mesh: The durable polyester mesh net is designed to withstand the effects of UV light and absorbs minimal water, making it a versatile fishing tool that also serves as a...
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!
