Photo caption: Sit back & relax…ice fishing season is here!
A successful ice fishing (http://bucsfishingreport.com/) adventure begins in the preparation. There are several items you need to ensure you have an extraordinary trip to Lower Michigan or the Upper Peninsula. Before you step off the concrete dock (http://www.profloat.com), you should be sure you have all the necessities. Afterall, it’s not pleasant to get out on the ice only to realize you’ve forgotten something!
How’s the ice?
The most important item you need is strong ice. Every year, there are reports of people, animals and vehicles falling through the ice because someone didn’t take necessary measures to make sure the ice was thick enough to be safe.
When determining ice safety, you should thoroughly examine it. To do this, you should look at the thickness, color, and depth of water, as well as pay attention to any cracks or breaks. If you see any cracks, you are probably not in a good area to fish.
The safest and thickest ice will be green, black or blue.
Temperature also plays an important role in ice safety and should be taken into consideration. If it’s warm, the ice may be beginning to thaw.
The basic essentials
You may find that your ice fishing needs are different from other people. In which case, the best thing to do is to make your own list and check off each item as you pack. There are basics, however, that everybody needs, including:
- An electronic depth finder
- A big enough sled to haul all your gear (and hopefully your catch!)
- A portable shelter
- Rods and reels
- A plastic insulated cooler for your bait
- The bait of your choice and some live minnows
- A heater
- Ties to secure your gear to your sled
- A good pair of grippers for traction
- Matches kept in an airtight container, or a butane lighter
- A lightweight ice saw
- An auger
- A chisel
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A dry towel
- Hand sanitizer
- Lunch if you plan on being out on the ice for a while
- Any other necessary items you might need
When you come prepared, you will find you are having a much more enjoyable ice fishing adventure, and, by using the proper supplies, you will hopefully come away with a plentiful catch. Of course, there are always more Michigan ice fishing tips http://www.lakemichiganangler.com/tips/Ice_Fishing/Ice_Fishing.htm) to be had, but hopefully this list gets you started!
Do you have unique supplies or items that you bring ice fishing? Share your info in a comment!