AnglingBuzz ICE (#4) – Midwinter ice fishing means different things depending on where you live. Some folks might be experiencing thick ice and deep snow, while others are getting their first taste of hardwater for the season. We love this time of year because ice conditions are peaking and there’s a wide variety of fishing opportunities available for a multitude of species. Buckle up – episode #4 of AnglingBuzz ICE is the longest and most diverse episode of the series!
Midwinter is a great time for ice fishing, and in this article, we will discuss some tactics and gear that can help you have a successful fishing trip. From live bait management to the right lures and equipment, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in!
Live Bait Management
When it comes to tip-up fishing, keeping your bait lively is crucial. That’s where coolers like the Engel Live Bait Coolers come in handy. These spill-proof coolers have an aerator system that keeps your bait alive and active. They are perfect for fishing on the ice or in fish houses.
Another useful tool for bait management is the Strike Master Bait Pucks. These compact containers are great for storing different types of bait, such as worms, larva, wax worms, and minnows. They fit easily in your pocket, so you don’t have to run back to the bait well every time you need to bait up.
Must-Have Lures ————— One family of lures that you cannot step out onto the ice without is the jigging rap. These lures come in various sizes, with the smaller sizes like the twos and threes working great for crappies and bluegills. The larger sizes, like the fives and sevens, are perfect for walleyes. Some anglers even upsize to a number nine when the fish are really active. Make sure to grab a few jigging raps before heading out on the ice.
Another bait that has a similar darting action but is a little bit different is the Forage Minnow Dart from Northland. This bait has a smaller profile but still jumps out left and right. It can be tipped with minnows or plastics and is excellent for panfish and walleye.
Fishing with Swivels and Snaps
One of the biggest mistakes people make when fishing with jigging raps and spoons is not using swivels. These baits have a lot of action and can cause line twists. Using a swivel helps prevent this issue. Additionally, some spoons fish better with snaps, so it’s a good idea to have a variety of terminal tackle, including swivels and snaps, in your tackle box.
Electronics for Ice Fishing
When it comes to electronics, Humminbird Helix units are highly recommended. These units have excellent sonar and mapping capabilities. However, if you don’t need mapping on your Humminbird, the Ice Helix 5 Chirp is a more affordable option. It still offers excellent chirp sonar, impressive interference rejection technology, adjustable zoom, and recorded history. It’s a great choice for ice fishing.
Underwater Cameras
Underwater cameras are a game-changer for ice fishing. The Aqua-Vu HD10i is a top-of-the-line camera that provides an extremely clear picture. It has a big screen that allows you to see the fish swimming around underneath the ice and observe how they react to your baits. This is especially useful if you have a wheelhouse, as you can set up the camera and watch it on your TV. The Aqua-Vu HD10i is a must-have for any serious ice angler.
Power to Go Box
The Power to Go Box from Bold North Outdoors is a versatile tool that every ice angler should have. It comes in three different models and can be used to power lights inside your fish house, charge your cell phone, or even hook up a GoPro. It features Ram balls for easy mounting of accessories like GoPros, flashlights, and UV lights for deploying your jigs. The Power to Go Box is a convenient and practical addition to your ice fishing gear.
St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod
The St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod is a great all-around series of rods for ice fishing. It comes in models ranging from 24 inches to 36 inches, catering to different fishing styles and target species. The rod features reel seats, eliminating the need for tape, which is a nice bonus. The St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod is a reliable and versatile option for ice anglers.
Daiwa D-Vec U750 Reel
The Daiwa D-Vec U750 reel is an excellent choice for ice fishing. While many panfish anglers prefer 500-sized reels, the U750 offers better line management and an excellent drag system. It is a reliable and durable reel that will enhance your ice fishing experience.
Catch Cover Rod Rack
The Catch Cover Rod Rack is a handy accessory for ice fishing rods. It can be mounted on the wall or ceiling of your fish house or garage, providing a convenient and organized storage solution for your rods. The Catch Cover Rod Rack is a must-have for keeping your ice fishing rods safe and easily accessible.
Late Ice Fishing Tips
Late ice is a prime time for ice fishing, as the conditions and behavior of fish change. As the winter progresses, the angle of the sun affects the fish, making them more active and easier to catch. Late ice is also when water starts rushing in, bringing oxygen and attracting fish to the shallows. Here are some tips for late ice fishing:
- Target the shallows: As the ice gets thinner, fish start migrating to the shoreline and shallower areas. Look for areas with vegetation, small tree branches, or rock features, as these provide cover for the fish.
- Adjust your presentation: In late ice, the fish can be more aggressive, but weather patterns and barometric changes can affect their mood. Start with heavier lures and spoons for deeper water, and switch to lighter lures and finesse techniques as the fish move shallower.
- Use small baits: Small spoons, punch jigs, and punch flies work well in late ice. Thread a small bait like a waxy or maggot on your hook to entice the fish. Adjust the size of your bait depending on the target species.
- Be prepared for big fish: Late ice is known for some of the best big fish bites, especially for northern pike. Use tip-ups or rod and reel setups with heavy fluorocarbon or titanium leaders. Circle hooks or quick-set hooks are recommended for a higher hook-up rate. Dead baits like Cisco or smelt, as well as hot dogs, can be effective for attracting big pike.
- Safety first: Always bring your safety gear, including a life jacket, ice spikes, and a way to get out of the water in case of an emergency. Late ice can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared.
Late ice fishing can be a rewarding and exciting experience. With the right gear and tactics, you can have a successful fishing trip and catch some big fish. So get out there, enjoy the late ice fishing, and make sure to stay safe. Remember to bring your live bait management tools, such as the Engel Live Bait Coolers and Strike Master Bait Pucks, to keep your bait lively and active. Don’t forget to pack your must-have lures like the jigging rap and Forage Minnow Dart from Northland.
When it comes to fishing with jigging raps and spoons, using swivels and snaps is essential to prevent line twists and improve your fishing experience. Consider investing in Humminbird Helix units for excellent sonar and mapping capabilities, or the more affordable Ice Helix 5 Chirp if you don’t need mapping.
Underwater cameras like the Aqua-Vu HD10i can provide a clear picture of the fish swimming beneath the ice, allowing you to observe their behavior and react accordingly. The Power to Go Box from Bold North Outdoors is a versatile tool that can power lights, charge your devices, and mount accessories like GoPros and flashlights.
For your ice fishing rods, the St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod is a reliable and versatile option, while the Daiwa D-Vec U750 reel offers excellent line management and a reliable drag system. Keep your rods organized and easily accessible with the Catch Cover Rod Rack.
Late ice fishing requires some adjustments in your tactics. Target the shallows where fish migrate as the ice gets thinner, and adjust your presentation accordingly. Use smaller baits like small spoons, punch jigs, and punch flies with small baits like waxies or maggots. Be prepared for big fish bites, especially for northern pike, by using tip-ups or rod and reel setups with heavy leaders and effective baits like dead Cisco or smelt.
Lastly, prioritize safety by bringing your safety gear and being prepared for emergencies. Late ice can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to have a life jacket, ice spikes, and a way to get out of the water if needed.
