It's almost time! What's your pre-ice routine?

[kunzi26]

Hey all,

 

I'm sure everyone has heard, but we're finally getting some nice freezing weather heading in from up north (https://weather.com/weather/tenday/l/56303:4:US). Early next week nightly lows will be sub 10's. So with ice season quickly approaching, I'd like to know what everyone usually does getting prepared to walk on water. As a newbie to ice fishing (only done it the last two seasons), I'm curious to see how everyone preps their gear and what other things you all do before going out on the ice. I finally got my hands on a nice flasher and power auger to add to the rest of my gear, any suggestions for nifty equipment to help make things easier? 

 

This is open for any discussion on any ice fishing tips for newer fishers! Please feel free to ask questions or discuss your prep process for the season. Let's all hope for this forecast to follow through and get some good ice out there. 

 

-JK

[Rick G]

Making sure all equipment is in working order is one thing I always try to take care of before taking my first trip of the season. Nothing is quite as frustrating as a flasher with a dead battery or an auger that wont start. 

I have always been a big believer having the proper equipment with to stay safe come first ice.... These items include a spud bar to check ice thickness, a section of rope,  a life jacket and a set of ice picks. Having a second person with is also a smart move when the ice is thin. Talking to those "in the know" about local bodies of water and current ice conditions is also a good thing to do.  Remember, first ice is usally not a consistant thickness, so use caution...and trust your gut...if something feels not right, it usally isn't.

Good luck and stay safe, my friends :-)

[monstermoose78]

Seeing it's only your second year find buddy to go with as rock said. I even bring a second set of dry clothes and footwear. I am to big mess with thin ice I need 6 inches as rick said early varies so much so some where there is half as much ice. 

 

Safety gear check include ice cleats as i have seen enough broken arms happen. Check your gear test the vexilar hook it up and turn it on to see if it runs or just hook up the charger. I use the drill plate so I charge all my batteries and with blade protecter on I make sure it works. My little sled is ready to haul my gear. 

 

I go light during early ice so fill so fill up my plactics container and restock my jig boxes. Make sure my set ups have new line and pick my favorite set ups to take with. I can add some photos later 

[Genofish]

all good advice, but with first ice I will avoid going out in the dark until the ice is a thicker. Ice is never safe, play it smart.

looking forward to getting out soon