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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...
- Dual Structure with Cooler: MATEIN fishing backpack builds a large front-loading cooler compartment that could hold four 3600 tackle boxes. Benefit from its high quality insulated material, you could...
- Organization System & Rod Holder: The fishing backpack with rod holder is specially designed with upper storage area with webbing throughout for your pliers, bass lures, hunting knives, poles and all...
- Saltwater Resistant & Sturdy: The tackle backpack is made of sturdy premium nylon fabrics which are extremely water-resistant. Paired with anti-rust Zinc alloy zipper, its unique saltwater-resistance...
- More Comfortable: The back panel and shoulder straps have strapssoft padding and are covered with breathable mesh with ergonomically design, you can still feel comfortable even been wearing this large...
- Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts: MATEIN fishing bag can hold all your fishing accessories and is the perfect choice for every angler. Besides fishing, this fishing cooler backpack is also perfect as a...
- 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
- Key Features – Fishing Tools - Corrosion resistant 420 Stainless Steel fishing pliers and fish lip gripper – Durable corrosion resistant coating – Tungsten carbide line cutters slice through...
- Corrosion Resistant Stainless-Steel – The 6-inch fishing pliers are made from corrosion resistant 420 stainless-steel and coated with a tough, corrosion resistant exterior coating for added...
- Tungsten Carbide Cutters – Super hard tungsten carbide cutters slice though mono, fluorocarbon, or braided fishing line with ease. Side mounted anvil cutters for easy access, cutters on the KastKing...
- Multi-Function Jaws – Grab and remove any fishhook with the serrated jaws or take advantage of the crimping slots to secure a split shot weight or build a steel leader. Slots machined into the edge...
- 9'' Lip Grip – KastKing lip grip offers a comfortable, non-slip EVA handle for a sure grip while landing your catch. This durable KastKing fish lip gripper is made from corrosion resistant, 420...
- 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.
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.
- 2 in 1 Drill: you can easily convert your auger from a Handy auger to a Electric auger by adding a power head(provide by yourself); The ice auger bit is equipped with an adapter and a top plate. The...
- High-Performance Drilling: The ice drill auger’s effective length is: 41 inches, rotating diameter: 6 inches, weight: 5.3 lbs. It is the ideal choice for ice fishing, science exploration, etc.
- Adjustable Handle and Comfortable Grip: Five adjustable height settings safety cover, adjusts from 48" - 64", suitable for various ice scenes. The ergonomically designed handle system uses foam...
- Dual-Flat Blades : Stainless Steel Blades are designed to stay sharp longer, and Blade Protector Protect the blade from damage and extend the life of the product
- One Year Warranty: Welcome to contact us by email for any questions, we'll reply within 24 hours
- 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
- 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.
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.
- HIGH-QUALITY OUTDOOR GEAR - Built to withstand extreme conditions and low temperatures, the Striker Climate Bib is a great addition to your outdoor apparel and winter gear; The Hydrapore material...
- WELL-DESIGNED - Technical advantages of this ice fishing bib like magnetic storm flap closures, towels, and smart pockets, combined with flotation and the most insulation we offer in a bib, allow you...
- 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 Climate 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 - This Climate Bib is the perfect working man's accessory, but it can also be used during other activities where extreme weather could be a major factor, like skiing or hunting;...
- Flotation – Falling into the ice is the biggest danger we face while ice fishing. There is NO reason to wear gear that doesn’t float. Going through the ice with regular gear on means you have to...
- 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...
- 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.
- 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!
- PROFESSIONAL ICE FISHING COMPANY - Who is Nordic Legend? We are a professional ice fishing equipment supplier. Nordic Legend are always looking for ways to implement the latest features, materials and...
- HIGH-QUALITY OUTDOOR GEAR - Built to withstand extreme conditions and low temperatures, the Striker Climate Jacket is a great addition to your outdoor apparel and winter gear; The Hydrapore material...
- WELL-DESIGNED - 3-in-1 technologies allow you to wear the G2 Softshell liner on its own, making the Climate Jacket the perfect year-round option to keep you comfortable in any temperature; With the...
- 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 Climate Jacket is built with Thermadex technology that provides you with optimal warmth without all the extra bulk that comes with other insulating jackets; With 150...
- WIDE RANGE OF USES - This Climate Jacket is the perfect working man's accessory, but it can also be used during other activities where extreme weather could be a major factor, like skiing or hunting;...
- 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: Small - Medium - Large - XLarge - XXLarge.
- PROFESSIONAL ICE FISHING COMPANY - Who is Nordic Legend? We are a professional ice fishing equipment supplier. Nordic Legend are always looking for ways to implement the latest features, materials and...
- 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...
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.
- 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.
- Keep'em Fresh: Works great for keeps fish alive and fresh when on the ice.
- Reliable Material: High quality nylon material, cold resistant, frost resistant, easy to clean, and not easy to crack.
- Easy to Operate: The Foam access on the side of net is very helpful getting fish out!
- Easy to Carry: compact when folded, quite big when unfolded and then easily transport after fishing.
- Appropriate Size: The inlet diameter of the product is 8 inches or 10 inches, suitable for the vast majority of ice fishing holes.
- 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,...
- 🐟【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...
- Maxwell, Isiah (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 41 Pages - 12/08/2018 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
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!
