Are You Prepared For Ice? Part One
Regardless of whether you are an avid ice angler, dabble with it from time to time or want to try it for the first time, a successful ice angler is one that goes prepared. There are several topics to consider, so in the first of a two-part series, let’s take a look at some of the most important suggestions that (if heeded) will translate “preparedness” into ice angling “success.”
Safety
Safety is subject number one by way of importance, and must be faced with checklist-like accuracy if you want to be completely safe while on the ice. The following is a short list of items needed each and every time you venture from shore.
- Ice cleats or treaded snow boots. When snow is not present, ice cleats are crucial to your stability while traveling to and from the shore. They might cost a few bucks (from $6.99 to $130), but the value far outweighs the cost. are my favorites.
- Ice Picks. These can simply be carried with you (in a breast pocket) in case you fall through the ice and need to get a hand hold to pull yourself out.
- Rope and floatation device. Although rope might not help you when far from shore, you may be able to throw some to a companion should he/she fall through.
After these items comes the most important aspect of insuring your safety. Do not fish on ice less than 4 inches thick (if the ice is clear), and 8 inches of ice should it be cloudy. And, then, NEVER ICE FISH ALONE.
Clothing
Ice fishing adventures can be some of the coldest times spent in the outdoors or some of the warmest. And, believe it or not, you can get sunburned on ice as fast as on a beach in the middle of summer. Dress in layers, warm socks, water proof boots, and don’t forget your sunscreen. Try to avoid bulky outerwear but remember to take enough to keep you warm is sub-zero temperatures.
Ice Auger
Ice augers, while not invented using rocket science, have become quite complicated over time. The easiest augers to use are hand augers that require muscle power rather than electric, gas, or propane to operate. If you are only planning on ice fishing a couple of times a year, a hand auger with a couple of extra cutting blades in your day pack should be sufficient.
However, if you plan on making ice fishing a wintertime “hobby,” a mechanized version would certainly be the best decision. They range from $200 to $600 and use gasoline, propane, or even electricity (battery powered). Ice augers are very similar to one another, with the exception of the size of hole they each cut. If you were not thinking of fishing for giant fish, then a 6- or 8-inch auger size would suffice. However, if you are like me and could find yourself at Fish Lake or on Flaming Gorge fishing for huge lake trout, a is really a must. Most motorized ice augers including electric models have enough power or gasoline in their tanks for a good, long day on the ice.
Shelter
I built my first ice shelter from plans found in the latest Field and Stream magazine in the late 1980s. However, in today’s world there is no need to build one. Ice shelters are a must if you make a habit of the sport, and will set you back between $150 and $400 depending on the brand and accessories. It’ surprisingly like buying a boat. A row boat will work but most people opt for one with a motor. In ice shelter jargon, that’s one with windows, extra doors, or “pop up” assembly instead of one with no windows only one door and a bible-thick instruction manual to assemble. This is a great that will give you plenty of room for your stuff and a friend or two.
In Part two, we’ll look at accessories, fish finders, and baits and lures. By then, we just might have safe ice nearby.
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