"A Beginners
Guide to Ice Fishing"
By Justin Hoffman
Ice fishing is growing in
popularity with each passing year, luring eager anglers to the sport
with a passionate frenzy. Most become hooked with that first crank of
the auger handle, igniting a life-long hobby and fascination with the
"hard stuff."
But what are the necessary
requirements when it comes to outfitting yourself for a day on the ice?
Auger
For those interested in taking up the sport, an auger is a definite
necessity. Although it would be nice to have the newest and fanciest gas
auger, a simple hand model will do the job nicely. The larger the
hole diameter, the harder the effort required to ultimately drill
through the ice. My preference is for a six-inch model, as this will
work fine for panfish, walleye and pike, without hurting the arms and
back too badly. Don't forget to pick up an ice scoop, as this will be
necessary to clean the slush out from drilled holes. A metal scoop is
often desired over the plastic varieties, due to it's added strength.
Approximate Cost - $70.00
Rods
For those starting out, I would suggest an initial purchase of two
separate rod and reel combos. An ultralight model is an excellent choice
for panfish. A standard length is approximately 28-inches, and a
fast-action tip is mandatory. A medium-action rod is tailor made
for walleye, small trout and pike, and will work well as your second
combo. Look for a rod in the neighbourhood of 28 to 30-inches in length,
with a solid backbone throughout the lower 2/3rds. Although there are
many rods on the market, stick with a well-known manufacturer, and one
that is graphite. Rods are extremely important out on the ice, and it's
best not to cut corners in this department.
Approximate Cost - $60
Reels
Regardless of the species you are chasing, an ultralight reel is your
best choice when ice fishing. It will complement the rod in weight and
size, and will allow the line to run more true through the rod guides.
If you already have ultralight reels that are used for open water
fishing, these will do just fine. You may want to clean out the grease
inside, as this can freeze when the temperature really dips, seizing up
the entire unit. Many ice fishing reels come standard with "cold weather
lube," and are quite inexpensive. The nice thing about buying a few is
the option to use them once open water arrives, giving them a dual life.
Ensure that drags are smooth, as light line is often used for ice
fishing. Rods and reels can often be bought as combos, saving you the
added expense of buying each separately.
Approximate Cost - $50.00
Line
Line is an important link in your ice fishing outfit. Mono has worked
well for me over the years, and I always stick with a reputable brand.
There are many new ice lines out on the market, and these lay claim to
less memory and higher strength yields. Whatever line you choose,
go with 2 to 4lb test for panfish, and 6 to 8lb test for walleye, trout
and pike.
Approximate Cost - $10.00
Lures
A small assortment of lures will suffice out on the ice, and a basic
selection would include spoons, jigging cranks, jig heads and plastics
for tipping. Adding to your collection is part of the fun of ice
fishing, but when starting out, just stick with the basics. A reputable
dealer or online resource can help you in making your selections.
Approximate Cost - $40.00

Tip Up
A tip up allows the stationary presentation of live or dead bait, and
can be a useful tool to utilize while simultaneously jigging. There are
many on the market, but for those days when the weather is brisk, a
Polar Therm-style will keep your hole free from ice and snow. You will
want to spool up with tip up line or Dacron, and have a prepared minnow
spread or simply tie on a weight and hook.
Approximate Cost - $25.00
Minnow Bucket
If you plan on using live bait, either for jigging or for set lines, you
will need to purchase a minnow bucket. You don't need to get fancy with
this one, and in fact, I still use a plain old bucket to this day. You
will also need a minnow net for fishing your bait out.
Approximate Cost - $15.00
Sled
In order to drag your gear to and from the ice each day, you will need
to purchase a sled or toboggan. Again, no need for anything fancy, but
make sure they are capable of holding all of the gear you have.
Strong ropes are a must.
Approximate Cost - $20.00
Seat
Once out on the ice, you will need something to sit on. Many folk use a
large 5-gallon pail for this purpose, and those designed with the angler
in mind sport padded lids. Pails are also useful for carting and storing
your gear. Folding camp chairs also work well for this situation, with
improved comfort levels and back support. Many even offer a handy drink
holder!
Approximate Cost - $5 - $15
Ice Picks and Rope
Ice picks are a safety tool that should be standard equipment for those
that venture on the ice. They are inexpensive and could literally save
your life out there. A long length of rope should also be mandatory, and
always kept close at hand in case an accident occurs.
Approximate Cost - $10.00
And there you have it. The
necessary tools for getting into the game of ice fishing. As you can
see, an initial investment of $300 should just about do it. Now, the
real money is in portable huts, electronics and gas augers, and although
these things certainly do add to the game, they aren't needed to get you
out on the ice. Besides, once the ice bug has bit, you'll be well on
your way to purchasing everything under the sun!

Enjoy your season and
welcome to the ice fishing fraternity.