AnglingBuzz ICE —  No doubt about it, panfish are the most popular species to chase on hardwater – both sunnies and crappies are an ice fishing mainstay. They are fairly easy to locate and provide all-day action all winter long. In this episode of AnglingBuzz ICE, we’re covering down on all things panfish. Enjoy!

Ice fishing for panfish can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. Whether you’re targeting bluegills, crappies, or perch, having the right gear is essential for a successful outing. In this article, we will discuss some of the must-have equipment for ice fishing panfish and also touch on the importance of conserving our resources. So, let’s dive in!

Light and Fast Auger

When you’re out on the ice, drilling multiple holes is often necessary to find the fish. That’s why having a light and fast auger is crucial. The Strikemaster Light Flight is an excellent option as it is extremely lightweight and fast. It can be mounted on a 40-volt head or a cordless drill, making it versatile and convenient.

Drill Plate for Cordless Drills

Using a cordless drill for ice fishing can sometimes be awkward and even dangerous. To ensure your safety and make drilling easier, consider using a drill plate like the one from K-Drill. This drill plate securely holds your cordless drill in place, allowing for smooth and efficient drilling. It also helps to prevent the drill from slipping or getting damaged.

Sonar Units for Accurate Fish Finding

Having a reliable sonar unit is essential for locating fish under the ice. The Vexilar FLX-28 is a top-of-the-line option that offers a range of features. It has a glow ring and an adjustable light for easy visibility, as well as the patented toughness of Vexilar units. Another great option is the Humminbird Ice Helix 7 G3 Chirp GPS. This unit has all the bells and whistles, including the ability to put lake master maps, recorded history, and split-screen functionality. The sonar on these units is extremely responsive, making them a go-to choice for many ice anglers.

Underwater Cameras for a Visual Experience

While sonar technology has come a long way, sometimes nothing beats seeing the fish for yourself. Underwater cameras like the Aqua-Vu Micro Revolution 5.0 Pro allow you to drop a camera down the hole and get a live view of what’s happening beneath the ice. This particular camera even has a spool on the back for easy cord management and the ability to record your footage. Whether you want to share your fishing adventures on social media or simply enjoy the view, an underwater camera is a valuable tool to have.

Electric Knife for Efficient Fish Cleaning

If you’re planning on harvesting fish for a meal, having an electric knife can make the cleaning process much easier. The Bubba Electric Knife is a popular choice among ice anglers. It comes with four different blades, a powerful motor, and a comfortable handle. The knife also comes with a sleek carrying case for easy storage and transportation. Whether you’re processing a large number of fish or dealing with bigger species, an electric knife can save you time and effort.

Safety Covers When ice fishing, it’s important to prioritize safety. One essential piece of equipment is a safety cover for your ice fishing hole. Catch Cover offers a safety cover that is designed to prevent items like phones or keys from falling into the hole. It features a convenient hole where you can slide your line in, making it perfect for dead sticks and rattle reels. You can find these safety covers at your local Fleet Farm store.

Inline Reels for Line Management

When it comes to ice fishing for panfish, using an inline reel can greatly improve your line management. Clam offers the Gravity Elite Inline Reel, which is specifically designed for ice fishing. It features a trigger system that allows for controlled deployment of your jig into the water column. This reel is especially useful when using small tungsten jigs. Pair it with a spring bobber rod for a great jigging setup.

Tungsten Bull Fly Jig for Panfish

One bait that has gained popularity among ice anglers is the tungsten bull fly jig from BMC. This jig is similar to the tungsten fly jig but with the addition of a spiky attachment. This eliminates the need for tipping the jig with plastic. The tungsten bull fly jig is a versatile and effective bait for targeting panfish. Make sure to check it out for your next ice fishing trip.

Dead Sticks for Panfish Success

Dead sticking is a popular technique for catching panfish through the ice. It involves setting up a rod with a plain hook tipped with a minnow and a sinker. The key is to set your drag loose so that when a fish strikes, it can take the bait and swim with it before you even get to your rod. Dead sticking not only adds another bait option but also keeps fish in the area for a longer period of time. It’s a fun and effective way to target panfish.

Preserving Panfish for the Future

While ice fishing for panfish can be a thrilling experience, it’s important to remember the importance of conserving our resources. Panfish populations are not infinite, and it’s crucial that we take steps to ensure their sustainability for future generations. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Fishing Regulations: Many states in the northern part of the United States have implemented high limits on panfish to protect their populations. It’s important to adhere to these regulations and only keep a reasonable number of fish for a meal.
2. Panfish Slots: Implementing panfish slots can be an effective way to protect larger, breeding-sized fish. By releasing these larger fish, we allow them to contribute to the population’s growth and ensure the presence of larger panfish in the future.
3. Measuring Fish: To effectively implement panfish slots, it’s crucial that anglers measure their fish accurately. By releasing larger fish and keeping smaller ones, we can help maintain a healthy balance in the population.
4. Angling Ethics: When fishing in deep water, it’s important to understand the concept of barrel trauma. Fish caught in deep water experience significant pressure changes, which can cause damage to their air bladders and capillaries. It’s best to harvest fish caught in deep water rather than attempting catch and release.
5. Responsible Harvesting: When harvesting panfish, it’s important to do so responsibly. Use proper techniques and equipment to ensure a quick and humane harvest. An electric knife can be a valuable tool for efficient fish cleaning.

By following these guidelines and practicing responsible fishing, we can help preserve panfish populations for future generations to enjoy. Let’s do our part to conserve our resources and ensure the sustainability of our favorite pastime. # Ice Fishing Tips and Equipment Recommendations

Ice fishing is a popular winter activity that requires the right equipment and techniques to be successful. In this article, we will discuss some essential tips for ice fishing and recommend some equipment that can enhance your ice fishing experience.

Tips for Ice Fishing Success

1. Drill Multiple Holes: When you’re out on the ice, drilling multiple holes is often necessary to find the fish. That’s why having a light and fast auger is crucial. The Strikemaster Light Flight is an excellent option as it is extremely lightweight and fast. It can be mounted on a 40-volt head or a cordless drill, making it versatile and convenient.
2. Use a Drill Plate for Cordless Drills: Using a cordless drill for ice fishing can sometimes be awkward and even dangerous. To ensure your safety and make drilling easier, consider using a drill plate like the one from K-Drill. This drill plate securely holds your cordless drill in place, allowing for smooth and efficient drilling. It also helps to prevent the drill from slipping or getting damaged.
3. Invest in a Reliable Sonar Unit: Having a reliable sonar unit is essential for locating fish under the ice. The Vexilar FLX-28 is a top-of-the-line option that offers a range of features. It has a glow ring and an adjustable light for easy visibility, as well as the patented toughness of Vexilar units. Another great option is the Humminbird Ice Helix 7 G3 Chirp GPS. This unit has all the bells and whistles, including the ability to put lake master maps, recorded history, and split-screen functionality. The sonar on these units is extremely responsive, making them a go-to choice for many ice anglers.
4. Consider Using an Underwater Camera: While sonar technology has come a long way, sometimes nothing beats seeing the fish for yourself. Underwater cameras like the Aqua-Vu Micro Revolution 5.0 can provide a live feed of what’s happening beneath the ice. This can help you identify fish species, observe their behavior, and even see how they react to your bait. It’s a valuable tool for understanding the underwater environment and increasing your chances of success.
5. Use Tip-Ups for Pike and Walleye: Tip-ups are a popular tool for targeting larger predatory fish like pike and walleye. These devices consist of a spool of line attached to a flag that pops up when a fish takes the bait. The Frabill Pro Thermal Tip-Up is a reliable and durable option that can withstand harsh winter conditions. It features a removable spool shaft for easy line management and a built-in tackle box for storing extra gear.
6. Stay Warm and Comfortable: Ice fishing can be a chilly endeavor, so it’s important to dress appropriately and stay warm. Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust your clothing based on the temperature. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to wear insulated boots, gloves, and a hat to keep your extremities warm. Hand and foot warmers can also provide additional heat when needed.
7. Bring Essential Safety Gear: Safety should always be a top priority when ice fishing. Make sure to bring essential safety gear such as ice picks, a throw rope, and a life jacket. Ice picks can help you pull yourself out of the water if you fall through the ice, while a throw rope can be used to rescue someone else. Wearing a life jacket is crucial, especially if you’re fishing alone or venturing onto unfamiliar ice.
8. Check Ice Conditions: Before heading out onto the ice, always check the ice conditions and thickness. Ice should be at least 4 inches thick for walking and 8-12 inches thick for a snowmobile or ATV. Use an ice auger or ice chisel to test the ice thickness at regular intervals as you move across the lake. Avoid areas with cracks, open water, or recent ice formations, as these can indicate unstable ice.

Equipment Recommendations

1. Ice Auger: Strikemaster Light Flight – Lightweight and fast, this auger is perfect for drilling multiple holes quickly.
2. Drill Plate: K-Drill Drill Plate – Securely holds your cordless drill in place for safe and efficient drilling.
3. Sonar Unit: Vexilar FLX-28 or Humminbird Ice Helix 7 G3 Chirp GPS – Reliable sonar units with advanced features for locating fish under the ice.
4. Underwater Camera: Aqua-Vu Micro Revolution 5.0 – Provides a live feed of the underwater environment, helping you observe fish behavior and increase your chances of success.
5. Tip-Ups: Frabill Pro Thermal Tip-Up – Reliable and durable tip-ups for targeting larger predatory fish like pike and walleye.
6. Appropriate Clothing: Layered clothing, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat to stay warm and comfortable on the ice.
7. Safety Gear: Ice picks, a throw rope, and a life jacket for essential safety precautions while ice fishing.
8. Ice Thickness Testing: Ice auger or ice chisel to test the thickness of the ice at regular intervals and ensure safe ice conditions.

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