Northwest Reel Life Jan-Feb 2024 Volume 4 Issue 4 - Flipbook - Page 19
GEAR CHECKLIST
ICE RODS & REELS
Ice fishing rods are shorter
than traditional rods,
offering better control
in a confined space of a
shelter, or standing directly
over the hole. Paired with
a compact and durable
reel, these rods and reels
are typically designed for
cold weather and built for
conditions and the fight of
winter fish. (Don't forget
the use of Tip Up’s!)
BAIT & TACKLE
Top lures and prolites
for most ice anglers
are a spoon, such as a
Swedish pimple, or a small
3mm/6mm tungsten jig
tipped with a couple of
maggots, waxxies, or your
favorite plastic. Colors in
shiny metallic, or glow are
the most proven.
ICE AUGERS & DRILLS
You can’t fish without a
hole, and creating that hole
is impossible without an
auger if it's manual, or even
powered. Hand augers
are plenty for most ice we
get, and they're affordable
and lightweight. I tend to
stray away from the weight
of gas and the mess, and
instead, run a composite
auger on a 20v drill. Please
never use chainsaws, and
in Washington state keep
the hole no bigger than 10
inches.
ICE SHELTER
Having a portable pop-up
shelter on the ice offers
protection from the biting
winds and keeps you
warm and dry. Some are
equipped with insulated
materials to hold heat from
the heater and sun lights
can be installed; they are a
nice, cozy add-on when on
the ice.
WARM CLOTHING
Layering is essential for
ice fishing. Start with a
moisture-wicking base
layer, adding insulating
layers like fleece, and top
it off with wind/waterproof
wear. Don't forget thermal
socks and good insulated
boots, gloves, beanies,
and a face covering to
retain body heat. I always
recommend overdressing,
because you can always
take it off, but you can't if
you don't have it.
PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Once your gear is ready, it's
time to plan the trip. Here
are a few tips to ensure a
seamless experience.
Research your destination:
Selecting the right body
of water may determine
the bite, its thickness, and
species. Maps will be your
best resort or just common
