Preparing for Your Ice Fishing Trip
One of the exciting adventures in the winter in this area is ice fishing. Recently I went ice fishing on Scofield Lake with two other friends. The three of us caught 62 fish in six hours. Most of the fish we released for someone else to catch, but what a great day it was!
There are many advantages to this sport over regular fishing. First, you don’t have near the crowds of people. And best of all, there are no bugs . . . no insects to be killed and no flies to be swatted. You don’t need a boat and you can go anywhere on the lake to fish. The important thing is to have good equipment and to dress for the weather.For starters, you will need a fishing license. Then you need to decide where you’re going. The best way to know if the lake is OK for ice fishing is to call the Division of Wildlife Resources fishing hotline, toll free at 1-877-592-5169. Not all bodies of water are listed, but all major fishing waters are listed and reports updated weekly.
Gear and Equipment Essentials
You will need proper clothing — wear several warm layers. You can remove or add layers as the weather changes — one-piece-type snowsuits are good. You’ll also need waterproof boots (preferably insulated ones); several pairs of warm socks (you can purchase battery-powered warming socks at most camping stores); and at least two pairs of gloves (they’re sure to get wet). You will also need proper equipment — an ax or ice auger to make the hole; large scoop or strainer to remove ice chips from the hole- fishing pole — a regular pole will work, but there are ones made especially for ice fishing; hooks, #2 up to 914, single or treble; weights, small lead weight sinkers; lures, any type; bait, salmon eggs, angle worms, or plastic worms; knife for cleaning the fish; and something to sit on.
Safety Tips for Ice Fishing
You could get by with a bucket turned upside down, but even better, take along a lawn chair and a thick quilt or sleeping bag for padding and warmth and a small hibachi grill or portable propane grill to provide warmth, as well as a place to keep coffee or hot chocolate warm. If the weather is bad, it is also a good idea to set up an ice tent or regular camping tent for protection from the weather. When you have all of your equipment together, tie it to a sled for easy transportation across snow and ice.
Pro Tips for a Great Day on the Ice
When you reach your destination, it is very easy to find out if the ice is thick enough. Simply ask people in the area. If there isn’t anyone to ask, drill a test hole close to the bank. The ice should be a minimum of six inches deep. Drill a hole and enjoy the catch. Note: Ice fishing on rivers can be very dangerous and is not for beginners.
