We are learning the in's and out's of many new outdoor pursuits. Our most recent knowledge bank update is on Ice Fishing. Here are a few of the tips and tricks we have picked up so far. Hopefully, they help you as a new ice fisher slide into this winter activity a little faster.
Basic Supplies for a Beginning Ice Fisher
Alaska Fishing License
Ice Fishing Pole - Shorter than your regular pole
Auger - To carve a hole in the ice
Bait - We recommend pro-roe from the Alaska Bait Company. The fish loved it.
Ice Cleats - This makes life on the ice easier.
When is it safe to be on the ice?
In Oklahoma/ Texas, this a big NEVER. I still get jittery when I see cars doing donuts in the middle of Alaska lakes. But ice experts say 4" or more is safe to walk on, 6" is safe for a snowmobile, 8" is safe for a car, and 12" is safe for a truck. Keep in mind ice melts first around the shoreline. As spring approaches, there might be weak areas along the shore. I recommend watching a safety video on how to get out in the event you fall in. Also, it's smart to pack a dry set of clothes and leave them tucked away in the car. Better safe than sorry.
Where to go?
Almost anywhere... Do a little research and see which lakes are well stocked or have healthy eco-systems around you. After a few years, we noticed, which lakes were well frequented by perhaps more experienced fisherman or women. We assumed that if other people were frequenting certain spots it was likely they were having luck. Check out the depth of the lake.
Luxury Ice Fishing add-ons...
Almost anywhere... Do a little research and see which lakes are well stocked or have healthy eco-systems around you. After a few years, we noticed, which lakes were well frequented by perhaps more experienced fisherman or women. We assumed that if other people were frequenting certain spots it was likely they were having luck. Check out the depth of the lake.
How to Survive Falling Through Ice
QUICK LINKS
Fishing License - http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.main
Auger - https://amzn.to/2JmhOpW
Ice Fishing Pole - https://amzn.to/2LTw0r9
Ice Cleats - https://amzn.to/38ACAdO
Tent - https://amzn.to/3aFFTmS
Portable Heater - https://amzn.to/2JhfdgX Sled - https://amzn.to/2WDOxtT