Ice
fishing equipment and the use of live bait
Ice
fishing equipment is fairly basic. A simple angler needs a tin can of
fresh, live bait, a tip-up, and a crowbar or auger for making a hole
in the ice. Of course, ice fishing can be as complicated as you want
it to be. Many anglers build shanties that come equipped with stoves
and chimneys. However, all you really require is live bait, a hole in
the ice, basic tackle, and a license for catching fish.
One of
the most important pieces of ice fishing equipment is warm clothes.
This is a sedentary sport and you are liable to freeze if you are not
wearing the proper insulated clothing. Bring an auger device (see
picture below) to make a hole in the ice. These can be purchased at
most sporting goods stores. Also, bring a variety of hooks so you
aren’t disappointed when the fish biting that day aren’t the size you
expected. Most live bait does well on a No. 4 or slightly larger hook.
The
ice fishing equipment you need for live bait
 Once you have the majority of your ice fishing
equipment, you need a way to transport it. The best way to move your
supplies and live bait across a body of frozen water is with a child’s
sleigh. Cheap plastic models will do fine. They will make
transportation of your supplies nearly effortless.
When angling in the winter, you
need to take special precautions to make sure your things don’t
freeze. Ice fishing equipment must include a bucket with a small hole
in the bottom in order to keep live bait like minnows or shad alive.
The bucket needs to be placed in a small trench in the ice and water
let in through the hole at the bottom. If you’re using worms, keep the
dirt warm right up until the moment you leave to go fishing.
Oh, and don’t forget the adult
beverages! What would ice fishing be without something to keep your
insides toasty?
Fishing Tackle |
Fishing Lures |
Fishing Rods |
Fishing Reels |
Fish Finders
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