How to Catch Fish Ice Fishing
If you love being out on a lake, enjoying nature and catching some fish it does not have to end when winter rolls around. Ice fishing is a way to enjoy the fresh winter air out on the lake. It takes a little preparation to get started. Follow the steps below and don't forget to bundle up out there.
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Instructions
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Read about ice fishing. Pick up a book at the book store or visit an ice fishing website. Learn how you read ice depth, what fish are biting in the winter and techniques for catching fish.
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2
Get a fishing license. Obtaining a fishing license will vary from state to state. Contact the Department of Fish and Game in your state. Their website should have a list of license agents such as stores and bait shops that sell fishing licenses. Many states also have a printable form you can download and mail in with a fee to obtain a license.
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Find a safe location. The ice should be at least five inches thick. Check out local conditions on the lake with the Department of Fish and Game in your area. Some ice fishing websites also have links to help you learn weather conditions on a specific lake. Keep in mind currents, snow cover and thaws all affect ice thickness.
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Load up your gear. Pile everything you need on the sled to pull it across the lake. It's much easier to pull a sled across the ice then try to carry everything. Besides, you will need something to carry all that fish you catch.
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Use your ice auger to drill a hole through the ice. Keep drilling until you see water. The size of the hole depends on the type of fish you plan to catch. The bigger the fish, the bigger the hole you will need. If you are in doubt, drill a hole about 10 inches wide.
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Place your bait on the fishing line and drop the pole in the water. The type of bait you use will vary depending on the type of fish you hope to catch. For example, earthworms are a good choice if you are catching panfish. If you are after yellow perch, using minnows is a better option. Skim the top of the water to keep the hole clear of slush as you are fishing.
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Wait patiently. If you have been sitting at a location for half an hour and the fish are not biting, try moving about 50 yards and drilling another hole.
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Tips & Warnings
It can get very cold when you are out on the middle of a lake ice fishing. Dress in layers and wear more than you think you will need.
You can't stop and ask for directions on a frozen lake. Learn to read a map and keep track of were you are walking. Bring a compass to help you find your way if you get lost.
