Many people think ice fishing is the same as regular fishing, except through a hole in the ice – but it’s a lot more complex than
that.
It’s an intricate task that requires skill, time, and
patience (and resistance to the cold!).
If you’re bored during the winter months and frustrated that you can’t cast out a line, then you may want to consider ice fishing. Keep reading for some fishing tips on how you can fish through the ice.
Table of Contents
What is Ice Fishing?
Ice fishing has been around for centuries and was
primarily done by Native Americans for survival purposes. They’d use sharp
Ice fishing is a method of fishing in frozen-over water, where anglers create or use an opening in the ice and catch fish through the hole.
Many anglers decide to ice-fish during the long winter months because it’s their only option, but some anglers specialize in ice fishing. The laws of when you can legally ice fish vary state by state, so always check your state regulations before setting off on the ice.
When preparing for ice fishing, make sure you dress in warm, protective clothing. Always layer up, as then at least you can take items
of clothing off if you get too warm. If you’re sat on the ice for hours, you’re going to get cold, and you don’t want your fishing experience to get cut short.
When preparing for ice fishing, make sure you dress in warm, protective clothing. Always layer up, as then at least you can take items
of clothing off if you get too warm. If you’re sat on the ice for hours, you’re going to get cold, and you don’t want your fishing experience to get cut short.
What Bait Should I Use?
With the bait, you can either jig it up and down, or leave it for the fish to notice on their own accord.
Waxworms are a popular choice amongst ice-anglers.
Waxworms are bee moth larvae and can be up to an inch long. They’re easy for
fish to spot, as the off-white color of the body contrasts with the water.
You may decide you want to use mousies (also known as rat-tailed maggots). These tend to be around half an inch in length without the tails, and like wax worms, they are easy for the fish to spot.
If you’re after trout, the best option would be spiked. Spikes are blowfly maggots, and their bodies are pale-colored.
Eurolarvae is also blowfly maggots, but they’ve been fed dyed foods to turn them into certain colors that are more likely to attract fish.
If you decide on using artificial bait, try a plastic bait in a bright color. Usually, plastic ice fishing lures are bright and
resemble worms.
Equipment You’ll Need
To fish in the ice successfully, you’ll need the right gear. It can be pretty pricey to purchase everything on this list, but we advise beginners to go for cheaper options to practice on.
Although technically not equipment, be sure to have a fishing permit with you at all times, and always check with your state
regulations on fishing.
Jigging Rod
A jigging rod is the preferred rod-type for ice-fishing.
They are perfect for facilitating those larger, heavier fish, and are generally compatible with many different types of lures.
Jigging is the most common technique for ice fishing, no matter what species you’re after.
Tip-Ups
If you’re wanting to fish from multiple holes at the same time, you’ll need tip-ups. Simply hook on the bait, and let out your line to the depth you’d prefer. The tip-up will hold the bait suspended, and then tip if you get a strike.
Fishfinder
A fish finder isn’t a necessity but is extremely useful when ice fishing. A decent fish finder will show you the depth and any vegetation underwater, so you can immediately decide whether it’s a worthy fishing spot, or if you should find somewhere else.
A fish finder will also mark the fish, so you’ll be able to see if the fish is interested or not. The only drawback to purchasing a fish finder is that they can be expensive, and ice-fishing can be done without
Shanty
A shanty is another piece of equipment that is useful but isn’t a necessity. The shelter is extremely useful in strong winds, as it can
be a difficult task gathering and assembling equipment in harsh weather.
Auger
Ice fishing is impossible without a hole to fish into – which is where the auger comes in. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to go for
the most basic auger.
A basic auger will form a circle several inches in diameter, which is perfect for catching regular-sized fish. If you’re after
bigger fish, be sure to get an auger that creates bigger holes.
For best results, hold the auger steady and try to prevent it from shaking while drilling into the ice.
Ice Scoop
Again, this isn’t a necessity, but it will certainly make your ice fishing experience a lot easier. If you’ve ever tried scooping ice with your bare hands, then you’ll understand why anglers decide to purchase an ice scoop.
Test The Ice
Before you get started, it’s important to check the ice.
It should be at least four inches thick before you begin fishing, as anything less could pose a risk of falling through – and you don’t want to get trapped under the ice.
If there are no other people on the ice, then you should be extra cautious getting on the ice – there may be a reason that people aren’t fishing there.
Be sure to auger a hole as soon as you get on the ice, as it’s better to find out how thick the ice is sooner rather than later.
Ice fishing can be a dangerous hobby, so it’s always recommended to have somebody with you and avoid fishing on the ice alone.
Fish You Can Catch
Depending on where you are on the globe, lots of different species can be caught through the ice. Cold-water fish generally move slower, so they are easier to track with a fishfinder and sometimes, even easier to catch.
The most common fish you’ll find under the ice include: