Ice Fishing Rods and Poles

Ice Fishing Rods and Poles

In the colder months, many anglers bring out their ice fishing rods. Ice fishing involves sitting over a hole and dropping your fishing line to catch common winter fish like perch, pike and walleyes. Some fisherman have shanties that protect them from the cold wind or snow, others simply pull up a stool wearing winter clothing and tough it out.

Winter fishing takes determination and patience. You don't cast a line, you drop it into the hole and wait until a fish bites. Most ice fisherman use a system of bells on their ice fishing rod to let them know when they have caught something. Once you've caught something, you reel it in back through your hole and then repeat the process.

The Best Ice Fishing Rod

The most important part of your ice fishing pole is the tip. It must be sensitive enough so that you can see when fish are biting. A small fishing rod and reel will suffice because you usually set up the fishing pole in a stand. Use four to eight pound fishing line that is specifically for ice fishing to withstand the rough edges of the ice and the much colder water temperature.

When ice fishing, most fisherman use live bate like minnows and worms on their ice fishing rods. Your ice fishing pole should have bobbers and sinkers to help hold the baited hook under water and to provide you with another visual for seeing when a fish bites.

Other Equipment Essential to Ice Fishing

Once you have your ice fishing rod, you'll need to make sure you have the other necessary items. Proper winter clothing is a must and hand warmers are equally important. Needlenose pliers and fingernail cutters will make tying hooks easier.

You will need an auger to cut a hole in the ice where you will place your ice fishing pole's line. Also make sure that you carry a first aid kit and life vest. The life vest is critical in case you fall through the ice. Hypothermia is a serious danger if you fall through the ice. It's always best to test the ice first and only go on it if it is four inches thick for the utmost in safety.

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