01-02-2025 REELLIFE DIGITAL - Flipbook - Page 18
gear
Ice fishing, often described
as a serene and rewarding
experience, is more than
drilling a hole in the ice and
waiting for the fish. It's an
adventure that combines
the thrill of the outdoors
with the patience of
angling. But to truly enjoy
your trip and ensure your
safety, preparation is key.
Whether you're a seasoned
pro or a beginner, this
guide will walk you through
the essentials of planning
and executing the perfect
ice fishing outing.
UNDERSTANDING THE
ENVIRONMENT & WEATHER
Before embarking on
an ice trip, it is crucial
to understand the
unique challenges
posed by the frozen
landscape. Understand
the environment you're
heading into, and how the
weather has been, and will
be for the day. You want
the area to have sustained
a decent string of cold
temperature days to put a
solid 4 inches of ice before
venturing out.
SAFETY FIRST
The first rule to ice fishing
is ensuring the ice is safe,
as a minimum of 4” in is
recommended for safe
walking. Carrying a spud
bar early, and late season is
non-negotiable, as you can
check the thickness while
walking out. Local fishing
reports, weather conditions,
advice from seasoned
anglers, and even tackle
shops provide valuable
insight into ice conditions
and safety. Additionally,
investing in safety gear
like ice cleats for walking,
flotation devices, flotation
suits, ice picks, and some
rope won’t only enhance
your mobility on the ice, but
also offer crucial protection
if the unthinkable happens
and you fall through. Extra
clothing and a blanket with
you are good as well.
