by Larry Rahn

Created on: December 19, 2008

ICE FISHING: HOW TO LAND THAT FISH

You are all bundled up and pulling your sled across the beautiful frozen lake or pond on a clear winter day. What an exciting day this will be for you and your taste buds, later on.
After looking around and thinking you have found the best spot to be had, you are ready to unload and set up your little hut for the day of excitement. After you set up the hut and get your heat going and everything so you'll be comfy, you drill the first hole and watch the water bubbling up. You just know it is going to be a great day for ice fishing. With this thought in mind you intently watch your rod for a sign of a fish. Fish are biting and you are pulling your rod up and down but, everytime, the fish miraculously manages to escape. Unless you know how to land the fish through the ice you might be looking at an empty catch bucket at days end. Some helpful hints about equipment and gear.

First, let's start with the rod, simply because it is your main tool in ice fishing. The ideal rod should be flexible at the tip, but , also strong enough to pull the fish in. you want to be able to feel and see the action of the rod when you have it in the hole. Depends on what size fish you are after as to the flexibility of the rod also. If you are unsure ask your local sporting goods store to help you out here.
Next comes a good solid selection of hooks to use. Again, you want to ask someone if you are unsure. After all, a small crappie or bluegill isn't going to go after a monster hook dangling in the water. Always make sure you have the right equipment, from one end of the pole to the other. Ice fishing gear is much different in size than regular everyday fishing gear.
Always try to remember to reline your poles about every 2 years, if you use them quite a bit. Old mono-filament line will break when you least expect it and there goes that big catch. Make sure your line is not tangled or twisted, smooth action is a key to catching fish without having problems with your gear.
In the modern fishing world there are hundreds of multi colored jigs on the market that everyone is bragging about being the best. Sometimes the jig selection is just a matter of process of elimination, ask some old pros who fish where you do, and I'm sure they'll help you out. Besides you might get to hear some real good fish stories! In the winter fish are less active due to the cold and the oxygen deficiency in the water, so, you need to attract their attention with some active and attractive jigging action. Fish also have a sense of smell and taste which will affect your jig selection as well. In murky waters fish rely on their smell and taste much more than in clear water where they can see.
Ready for some action. When the end of that pole bends toward the hole set your hook with one smooth, quick motion. Remember if you are fishing for small pan fish, you can't set the hook too hard or you'll just pull the hook out of the fish. Be smooth and quick. When you see the head of the fish approach the top of the hole make sure you have enough room to land him on the space inside your hut, they will be fighting and squirming, so, don't let him slide back off into the hole, you may lose him for good. It's always best to use a small dip net for safety sake.
Remember, gear in good shape, nice spot, comfortable, warm, and always when fishing your patience level has to be very high, because some days fishing is very slow, just like us older people getting around. Good memories and fun, a day of ice fishing with friends and the fine taste of the catch when prepared right. Good day and good fishing.

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