Dan Galusha

Every year it seems like more people are showing an interest in this affordable way of fishing.  Some anglers have mentioned that they had never fished in their lives until being introduced to the icy side of the sport.

My recommendation for anyone wanting to start in the sport is to go after the panfish end of things.  This will give the angler action, and save money on tackle and equipment, while letting them see how well they like it.

Starting on the ice is not expensive.  The basics are a rod/reel combination, drill, bucket with a seat, and jigs and bait.  To this I would suggest adding a portable shelter, especially after the first few times, if the decision has been made to stay in the sport.

Here is a list of what a person may want to purchase at the beginning for panfish (bluegill and crappie):

• One spinning combination, with a 24-inch light action rod (a Frabill Panfish Popper series is good, which has a built-in spring bobber).  If budget allows I would purchase two combinations.  The reels are ultra lights, which can also be used during open water times of the year.
• A drill is essential, and a hand model may be preferred at the beginning, mainly because of cost.  For this I would suggest a Jiffy Jet, but again, if budget allows, and you know you are going to stick it, a power drill may want to be considered.
• Frabill has a combination of bucket and seat called a Sit-N-Fish, which also has an area for bait and tackle.  The company also has seats, which will fit standard 5, or 10 gallon buckets.
• For jigs I would go with an assortment from Custom Jigs & Spins, which is one of the most popular and productive products in ice fishing.  The assortments I use are the glow colors in the Ratso, Rat Finkee and Demon models, in sizes of 12 through 8.
• Wax worms are a good all around bait, but make sure to have some jars of Berkley Power Crappie Nibbles as well.  While there are other Power Baits to consider, I’ve had excellent luck in tipping the Rat Finkee and Demon jigs with the Nibbles.  Power Bait colors to consider are white, chartreuse and pink.
• A Frabill one-man portable shelter is an excellent choice for any ice angler, no matter what level of experience.  It is an affordable, and easy shelter to use.  For a few more dollars a Hideout, 2 to 3 man shelter, can be purchased, which will give room for a buddy, as well as extra equipment.

Safety is very important, so be sure to have the proper warm clothing, including a good pair of gloves.  Frostbite and hypothermia can be a serious problem for ice anglers.

Another product for safety is a set of ice picks that are worn around the neck on a cord.  The ones I use are called Picks of Life, which float, and have retractable point covers.  Hopefully a person will never have to use this device, but if they fall through the ice it is the easiest way, other than having a rope thrown out by another person, to pull out of the hole.

As with everything, remember, safety first.  Make sure the ice thickness is good (at least 3 to 4 inches).  If possible go with a buddy, or where there is a group of anglers close by.  Even experienced anglers can find themselves in some tricky situations if they let their guard down.