Ice fishing can be an enjoyable and rewarding activity.
But like most things in life, it takes experience and expertise to properly enjoy. If you don’t have this knowledge, you can be met with frustration and even danger. Take a look at the following article to stay safe and step up your game.
Ice Fishing Tackle
Before you step out on the ice, make sure that you have the proper equipment. The correct tackle can make the difference between a successful and prosperous day on the ice or a day of frustration and nothing to show. Make sure to have the following the next time you step out on the ice:

Bucket
A good item to start with is a bucket. Sometimes, the ice fishing beginners forget about it.
This can double as both an easy way to carry your equipment as well as a comfortable seat to fish from.
Winter Clothing
- Windproof and Waterproof Outer layer
- Thermal under layers
- Thick socks
- Thermal gloves
- Extra clothing
Next, you must think about clothing. It’s the absolute must and not all beginners understand it.
If you are fishing somewhere with ice, it is likely that the weather will be frigid, especially if you go out in the morning when the fishing is best (refer to tips and tricks section).
Therefore, you want to ensure that you have plenty of warm clothing. This includes thick socks, gloves, and for the most cautious, an extra set of clothes in case you fall into the freezing water.
Footwear
- Boots
- Ice Cleats
In addition to winter clothing, consider purchasing a pair of well-made boots that will both keep your feet warm and protected on cold and rough terrain.
They must also have a good grip to keep you stable and balanced on slippery ice. To help out with gripping the ice, ice cleats are also recommended.
Ice Equipment
Ice Chisel or Auger
- Ice Scoop
- Ice Safety Pick
An ice chisel and scoop to cut and clear a hole in the ice are helpful as well as an ice safety pick, which you should keep in your jacket or vest in case of emergency. These are crucial pieces of equipment for ice fishing.
Fishing Equipment
- Rod
- Line
- Lures & Bait
- Tip-Ups
- Hooks
- Leaders
Check online to research what you need to purchase based on what you are trying to specifically catch. This will include but will not be limited to your rod, as well as line, hooks, lures, tip-up, leaders, etc.
Track Equipment
When venturing into the icy wilderness for a fishing expedition, having reliable ice fishing tracking equipment is crucial.
One essential piece of gear is the ice fishing fish finder, which helps you locate fish beneath the ice. These devices use sonar technology to provide a real-time view of the underwater environment, ensuring you maximize your fishing success.
For those seeking the best options available, check out our post, where we discuss and compare multiple top-rated ice fishing fish finders, helping you make an informed choice for your next adventure.
These items will help you increase your productivity on the ice.
Ice Fishing Tips and Tactics
Fishing on the ice requires some different tips and tactics than you would use in the summer months. To take your ice fishing to the next level, make sure to take this advice and apply it on your next fishing trip.

Tips
Start Early
As mentioned in the previous section, start out as early as possible. The early bird gets the worm and the first fisherman gets the fish.
Be Wary of Depth
Fish often need to maintain a specific body temperature and therefore stay at a certain depth in the water. To know the specific depth of the fish you are seeking, either ask your local experts or look online.
Shhhhh!
Don’t make any more noise than you have to. Obviously, to break a hole in the ice and set yourself up, you will have to make some noise. But, the quieter you can be, the less likely you will scare the fish away.
Slow and Steady
Do not move too quickly. Just like us in the winter months, fish are less likely to expend effort, preferring to conserve as much energy as possible. Keep your bait steady and you will have a better chance of attracting fish.
Don’t Go Solo
Take a friend or two. This has two advantages. First, it is much safer (see the following section). Second, if you find one fish in an area, you are more likely to find more. Therefore, it is easier to cover a wide range of locations with multiple people. Once one of you finds a fish, get close together, even next to each other (make sure to stay at least 6 feet away to minimize chances of falling through the ice) to catch more.
Tactics
Be Mobile
Don’t fish in the same spot all day. Move around and use your Sonar Fish Finder. The sonar will be able to work through the ice, so you can cover a large amount of ground fairly quickly. But, if you want a visual look, you will need to drill a hole. Go with a partner to cover more ground
Focus on the Bases of Drop-offs and Depressions
In colder weather, fish are more active in deeper water. Many fish also accumulate near the base of drop-offs near gathered sediment because of a higher likelihood of insect spawning. Therefore, if you find a drop-off with your depth finder, take special care to look for fish in these areas.
Small holes or depressions in the body of water’s floor are often warmer, contain food, and therefore attract fish. Also, keep a close eye on these areas.
Vibrating Jig
When lowering a jig, practice vibrating your wrist quickly, but in a small motion. These vibrations, which Dave Genz calls “pounding” will also vibrate the jig. If you do this while slowly raising your rod up and down in a vertical motion, this will cause a motion in the jig attractive to fish. By doing this you are making the jig seem alive and increasing your chances of catching a variety of species.
Ice Fishing Safety

Safety is the most important aspect to consider with ice fishing. Unlike the warmer months, in the cold of winter, making even a small mistake can have very dangerous consequences when compounded with the effects of bitter cold.
Bring a Friend
Take a friend. It is wise never to go out fishing alone, even in areas that you know well. If something happens, it is always good to have someone on hand to either help or call someone who can.
Communicate
Let someone else know where you are going and how long you plan on being gone. Therefore, if an accident occurs, authorities know where to find you and can often salvage a bad situation from becoming much worse.
Dress in Layers
It is often smart to bring more than you think you need just in case it is colder than expected or something gets wet. Make sure your outer layer is waterproof as well in case of wind. Also, make sure to protect your extremities. Thick socks and gloves can save you from high levels of discomfort
Bring an Ice Safety Pick
Just in case you fall through the ice, a safety pick can help you get a grip on the slippery ice and avoid drowning or hypothermia. If you or your friend fall through the ice, make sure to get them into a heated area and into dry clothes as soon as possible.
Check with Local Authorities
Local authorities can often tell you which areas are safe to fish in and which areas you should avoid. They will also be able to tell you what to do in case of an emergency and which authorities to contact for help.
Conclusion
Don’t let the ice this winter keep you from catching as many fish then as you do in the summer. But be sure to take these tips with you the next time you go out on the ice. They will make for a much easier time with much more fish to show for your trouble.
Thanks for pointing out how people should make sure to get better winter gear especially when they are looking to fish in the morning when it is much colder. My dad really loves to do some ice-fishing with my children since he gets to bond with them for a longer period of time. I will be sure to advise them to get more layers of clothing when they plan to fish in the earlier time of the morning.