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Ice fishing isn't much different then open water fishing. Success will always come down to location.
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With the popularity of ice fishing growing each winter, it is no surprise that I've fielded many "where do I start" questions on both the sites I moderate and in general conversation. For many beginners, it can be a difficult and confusing sport but there are many resources to increase the slope of the learning curve and turn ice fishing into ice-catching. Though the early bite has passed, the mid-season and late-ice experiences can be very rewarding.
Read, read, read
Before getting into any hobby, the best thing a person can do is read about the activity to determine whether or not it is something they would enjoy and can afford in terms of time and money. Thanks to respected publications and the Internet, there is a vast library of print and digital media that will help the layperson get an understanding for ice fishing.
The first book I always recommend to novice anglers is Ice Fishing Secrets, written by Al Lindner, Doug Stange and Dave Genz and published by In-Fisherman. Though the most recent edition is several years old and does not reflect the vast changes in technology from lures to electronics, the basics are there. I've read the book cover to cover several times, and find something new to try on the ice with every review.
Another more recent compendium of ice fishing tactics is The Freshwater Angler series Modern Methods of Ice Fishing, published by Creative Publishing International. Rich in pictures and diagrams, this book teaches anglers the tricks of the trade before setting foot on the ice.
An excellent update to have in an angling library is In-Fisherman Magazine's Ice Fishing Guide, which is released just before ice-up each year. Trends, tips and what's new for ice angling are detailed in a seasonal periodical that is available on most newsstands. Species-specific tactics are always a highlight of this annual magazine.
The Internet is filled with many quality sites, from local hunting and fishing forums to those geared specifically toward ice fishing. One such site, www.IceShanty.com, is a year-round message board with open discussions for this sport, which for many who log on, is their top pursuit in the outdoors. Other sites such as Dave Genz's Ice Team website (www.iceteam.com) help anglers get a feel for the modern world of ice angling. All of these resources will aid in getting a grip on ice fishing.
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Make sure you always have a camera for those great moments.
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Tools of the trade
There are so many products on the market today that a beginner might spend hours in the sporting goods store trying to sort it all out. In reality, there are only three "big ticket" items an angler needs to get started ice fishing, and then a few basic items to complete the outfit.
The three necessities that all anglers should have are an ice auger, a portable house and a sonar device. Brand, make and model are a bone of contention on internet forums, but when it comes down to it, having all three in one form or another is important for successful outings on the ice.
Pick an auger that can be used based on physical ability and desired mobility level. Selection of a sled house or portable shanty should be based on size of the angler, and the number of people who will use the house.
In comparison to seasons past, there are a good number of sonar devices on the market. Many affordable flashers put the third big-ticket item within reach of most anglers. As with all fishing equipment, buying the best that can be afforded is most beneficial. Many lower priced units, such as the Marcum VX-1, provide high-end performance for a smaller impact on the wallet.
All one really needs after those items is two ice fishing rods; one a little heavier, one a little lighter. The bigger one can be used for walleyes, pike and other game fish, the smaller one for panfish. Right the larger of the two with four- or six-pound test line, and the smaller with two-pound test line. Buy the highest-quality rod you can afford for both categories, and if the hobby becomes an obsession, you can adjust your arsenal.
A selection of spoons, jigs and other lures will immerse the new angler in the world of ice fishing tackle. Bobbers, weights and other standard tackle will be familiar, and can be employed in most situations.
With the basics taken care of, an angler is free to experiment and specialize on the ice. Maybe pursuing pike will prove to be fun, and a set of tip-ups would liven the experience even more. Panfish will be an exciting challenge, and catching them will become a priority. Downsized rods, spider-web thin lines and tiny ice flies change the face of fishing. Once the basics are learned, the rest of the game is wide open.
These are just some tips to help answer the question "How do I get started in ice fishing?" It's a question worth asking, and though the answers are never simple, uncovering them is one of the most rewarding experiences…in our outdoors.
Other great places for Ice Fishing Information:
Ice Fishing Chat - An ice fishing forum from around the country.
Nodak Outdoors Ice Fishing - The ice fishing directory at Nodak Outdoors that is loaded with articles and ice fishing information.
