Tips for Ice fishing

Ice fishing is one of the best winter pastimes, and fishing isn't just about blue lakes, clear skies and soaking up the sun from a boat. For many people, winter is the real fishing season.
Let's get started with a guide to ice fishing.

 

Some famous ice fishing locations.

1. Lake of the Woods, Minnesota

Winter is here and the lake is dotted with shacks and enthusiastic fish. Many people also choose to spend their nights camping and sleepless nights in skate houses. Welcome to the self-proclaimed white spotted wolf capital of the world.

2. Devil’s Lake, North Dakota

This is the best habitat for bass, angular white spot and pike fishing.

3. Lule River, Sweden

Known for its bass, pike, salmon, trout and whitefish.

4. Antero Reservoir, Colorado

Known for its diverse trout populations, including large rainbow trout. If you're looking for a base camp for your fishing trip, try Mountain River Lodge, which also offers campgrounds on the lake shore.

Ice is never 100% safe.

While ice fishing can be a lot of fun, there are also some potential dangers, so safety should be your first priority when you step out on the ice!

Ice fishing tips: 

Confirm the thickness of the ice.

  • UNDER 4″—STAY OFF
  • 4″—Ice fishing or other activities on foot
  • 5″–7″—Snowmobile or ATV
  • 7”-8”Side-by-side ATV
  • 9”-10”Small car or SUV
  • 11”-12”Medium SUV or small truck
  • 13”Medium truck
  • 16”-17”Heavy-duty truck
  • 20”+ Heavy-duty truck with wheelhouse shelter

Use the following tool to check the thickness of the ice:

  • Ice chisel
  • Ice Diamond
  • Tape measure

On-ice safety equipment.

  • Ice picks
  • Foam life jacket or flotation suit
  • Emergency whistle
  • Chisel or drill and tape measure
  • Ice cleats
  • Cell phone and personal locator beacon
  • Rope

Don't go fishing alone. 

You never know what will happen on the ice. So it's best to have a friend or family member with you. Be sure to let someone know where you're going and when you'll be back.

Parking distance

Some area lakes are accessible by car due to the thick ice cover. Please note that there are rules about parking. Do not park together and keep each car 50 feet (roughly 16 meters) away from the nearest car. And move your car every two hours. 

Warm clothes

Sitting and fishing for a long time on cold ice can make your body stiff and uncomfortable; you should have warm underwear, jackets, gloves, hats, sunglasses, etc. It is time to get up and move your limbs and all joints of your body frequently to promote blood circulation and prevent frostbite.

Conclusion:

Prepare your ice fishing safety equipment, bring food and friends and family to enjoy together.


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