Ice Fishing Prep
The temperatures are dropping and first ice is just around the corner. In this episode we will run through some ice fishing preparation covering what you need to do to get ready for this upcoming ice season.
Planning for First Ice
Small, shallow lakes are the bodies of water that have the first walkable ice. Typically these types of lakes freeze first and receive little fishing pressure. Often times these small lakes have little information regarding access points, fish species, and size potential. The best way to find these hidden gems is the ON X Fish app. From stocking data, to weather reports, fish size structure, and property lines the ON X Fish app has a ton of awesome features that will help you plan your next fishing trip.
Prepping Your Ice Gear
Ice fishing requires a lot of gear. In order to be successful on the ice you have to make sure your auger, electronics, house, ice suit, and fishing gear is ready to go as soon as first ice forms. There are several things you can do as an angler to prep for the upcoming ice season.
Upgrading your batteries on your electronics is a great way to great ready for the ice season. If you haven’t switch out your lead acid batteries to Dakota Lithium batteries we highly recommend making the change. Upgrading your batteries from lead acid in your ice electronics helps give you more power and making them much longer lasting.
You also want to check your auger blades, batteries, and fish house making sure all three are ready to go for the season. As an angler it’s important to prepare your fishing rods and reels for the upcoming ice season. It’s a good idea to respool your reels with fresh line every season.
New Ice Fishing Baits
Northland Tungsten Pin Fry
With action that simulates the tasty micro fry Perch and Panfish crave, Northland Fishing Tackle’s NEW Pin Fry is deadly for big bluegills, crappies, and jumbo perch. Rigged on the Tungsten Flat-Fry this jig keeps your presentation in the perfect position to increase results! It’s available in two different sizes and a variety of fish-catching colors.
Northland Broom Bug
With incredible detail and action, the Broom Bug looks and acts just like an aquatic larvae. When placed on the Tungsten Flat-Fry Jig, it hangs at a 90-degree angle adding to the illusion triggering interest and more strikes. Sized to “match the hatch” they are perfect for pressured fish. The Northland Broom Bug comes in a 1/28th-ounce and 1/16th-ounce size and a variety of colors.
Northland Tungsten Buck-Shot
The new Tungsten Buck-Shot Rattle Spoon features a new material with a classic sound. All the ticking, thumping and clicking that attracts fish built on a tungsten frame which is 70% more dense than lead. Light reflecting fish scale patterns in combination with an array of finishes makes it perfect for any situation.
Thumper Spoon
The new Thumper Spoon is constructed of a premium stamped brass with strategically placed bends giving it incredible fluttering action. It features a micro kicker-tail blade that flashes, flutters and clicks when the spoon is being worked calling in fish from a distance. The Thumper Spoon is available in a wide array of sizes and colors offering the perfect option for any species in any type of water conditions. It’s perfect for walleye, bass, northern pike, and panfish.
Northland Tungsten Slim Spoon
The Tungsten Slim Spoon has a thin, heavy profile that gets to the bottom fast. Once down there, its flat sides and flicker blade adds flash and noise while its tumbling action entices big strikes. It’s avaibale in three different sizes and a variety of great color options. Tip this spoon with a minnow head or wax worm and you’ve got a great multispecies presenation all winter long.
Ice Safety
Anglers venturing out on first ice have to practice ice safety. Some places will freeze over before others and it’s critically you check the ice as you go. A few mandatory pieces of safety equipment you need to have include a spud bar, ice picks, throw rope, and float suit. It’s also best to never heard out onto first ice without a fishing buddy. Take safety precautions and remember that cold water can be deadly and needs to be taken seriously.
