A TACKLEBOX, A FISHING POLE, AN AUGER AND A PARKA

A good friend of mine, once asked me in an online chat if I was a fan of ice fishing. My reply was succinct and without hesitation.

“I’m the guy other guys bring on fishing trips to provide off-colored jokes and drinks all of your koko Samoa while you catch my dinner.”

To put it lightly, I’m not a good fisherman unless I’m holding a spear gun in one hand while standing in a stocked wading pool. I do however, love the outdoors and whenever there is an opportunity to sit in a boat or stand on the shore of any of Utah’s scenic mountain lakes, I’m going to take that chance every time without pause.

But ice fishing is a beast of a different breed. When most people think of fishing they envision exactly what my Southern California born, island bred mind conjures up in my subconscious: a calm tropical or a Mediterranean breeze, water lapping at my feet and a sturdy rod being tugged by a celluloid line anchored by a hook and some power bait or an ornate fly. Ice, snow, wind chill and an auger are hardly the things that pass through my mind when the word ‘fishing’ is mentioned.

Yet here in the Beehive State there are a number of fisherman who can’t wait for the sleepy and languorous days of summer to cast. Instead, they trudge out on frozen lakes and ponds to try their luck at catching Trout, Walleye, Crappie or Bluegill. There are even ice fishing competitions throughout the frigid winter months. But be aware, just like fishing in the ‘normal’ sense of the sport, ice fishing has its own inherent risks and dangers so it’s important that you use caution, especially if you are a novice. In fact, if you are thinking of giving the sport a try one rule of thumb you don’t want to overlook is, make sure you bring along an experienced and seasoned veteran.

Before you go:
1. Ask a professional. Walk in to your local Cabela’s or your preferred, local outdoor sporting goods store and ask a veteran about the intricacies of ice fishing. Doing your research should always be your first item of business and whenever possible, as I mentioned previously, go with a pro who can show you the ropes.

2. As a side to #1, be sure you know what your fishing. Your guide and local experts will show you the necessities for your tackle box and what to expect depending on what spots you plan on fishing. If they’re really nice, they may even give you a quick rundown of the auger, sharpen the blade for you or instruct you on the how-to’s, the weight of your line, how and when to properly use an ice scoop as well as the length or size of your ice pole (usually 18 – 36 inches).

3. Watch the weather reports. Obviously you don’t want to be stuck out on a lake when the weather is unseasonably warm but you also don’t want to be out there in the middle of a snow storm. Watching the weather is also critical because of the number of intangibles the weather presents when you are vulnerable to its improbability so its nice to be prepared for any and all conditions.

4. Dress appropriately and comfortably. Being on the ice can be miserable even for experienced ice fishermen. Layer your clothing so that you can either shed layers or put them back on with little effort. An extra pair of socks and glove liners are always a good suggestion.

There are a number of variables to consider when you are preparing for an ice fishing trip so visit some of the sites listed below for suggestions and more information on ice fishing. I’ve fished Strawberry and Deer Creek in the winter, of course with very little success due to my lack of fishing skills but your experience will be totally different so be prepared and have fun!

For more information visit:
Utah.com
Wildlife.Utah.gov