When the temperatures drop and the lakes freeze, it becomes the perfect time for ice fishing. A thrilling experience for all anglers, ice fishing nevertheless comes with some rules. If you want to try your hand at this arctic sport, then read over some of these beginner ice fishing tips:
Dress appropriately
No matter what time of year it is, you have to dress appropriately for fishing. But for ice fishing, this is even more important. The risk of hypothermia or frostbite is real, so you need to protect yourself before going onto the ice. Dress in multiple layers and keep your feet warm with wool socks rather than cotton. You can read more on this subject here.
Check ice thickness
Before you step out onto the ice, you need to make sure it can support your weight and any other gear or equipment you’re bringing along. If you’re walking, the ice should be six inches thick; if you’re driving on a snowmobile, it should be ten inches thick.
Bring the right equipment
You need different equipment for different types of fishing. Ice fishing is no different. Here is a quick list of everything you should bring on your ice fishing trip:
- An auger for drilling
- A sled to transport your equipment
- Shelters (you can get pop-up ones or permanent shelters)
- Ice fishing rods, reels, and lines
- Flashers (these are fish finders built specifically for ice fishing)
Stick with one fishing technique
There are a few ice fishing techniques for you to try, but to try them all in one trip. Beginners should work on mastering one and then moving on to the next after that.
With these tips, you should be an expert ice angler in no time. Then, once the ice melts, consider giving V-Dock a call to get you back in the water in no time!
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