NAIFC

The chill has returned to the air, and as temperatures reach the freezing point thoughts of early ice angling begin to stir. As seasoned professionals or new comers to the sport we can all benefit by taking some time to ready ourselves. Making sure your equipment is working properly is the first step. Now is the payoff for the time spent properly storing your gear at last year’s season end.

Tips:

Motorized Equipment (Snowmobiles, ATVs, power augers, etc.):

• Replace fluids including oils, fuels and lubricants. Most fluids tend to loose their effectiveness / freshness after long periods of sitting idle.
• Check electrical systems including batteries, spark plugs and accessories. Do not forget about wiring and other electrical connections. Trailer connections and light bulbs are notorious for failure after sitting idle through the summer months, as are batteries for failure to hold a charge.
• Following manufactures guidelines service the equipment to insure safe operation and prepare for starting.
• Start / run equipment, checking that all systems are tuned up and running at their best.
• Installing new auger blades will insure better performance.
• Replace items and or parts found to be non-operational with approved OEM parts.
• Re-familiarize yourself with equipment controls and machine operations.

Electronics: (Fish finders, GPS devices, computers, communication devices, etc.):

• Check power supplies and connections.
• Update programming wherever possible.
• Replace items and or parts found to be non-operational with approved OEM parts.
• Re-familiarize yourself with equipment controls and machine operations.

Shelters & Sleds: (Soft/hard sided shelters, combination sled / shelters, utility sleds, etc.):

• Check materials for rips.
• Check frame work for damage.
• Apply a fresh covering of water repellent.
• Check for damaged runners, skis and sled bottoms. Smoothing nicks and applying a thin coating of wax while make pulling easier.
• Replace frayed pull ropes and cords.
• Update identification labeling. Most states require names and contact information to be placed on shelters.

Rods & Reels: (Reels open/closed face, poles, tip ups, etc.):

• Check poles for loose and or damaged / missing eyes.
• Check rod handles and seats. The last thing you want is for that new reel to fall off and down the hole.
• Replace new, all fishing lines.
• Lubrication per manufacturer’s guidelines will help ease operation in cold weather conditions and insure drag performance.

Tackle: (Baits, jigs, plastics, hooks, etc.):

• Remove all tackle from storage containers.
• Check for damaged eyes and hook barbs.
• Cleaning and sharpening hooks now will prevent fish loss later.

Clothing: (Ice suits, boots, gloves, hats, etc.):

• Check materials for rips.
• Apply a fresh covering of water repellent.
• Check snaps, zippers and ties.

Misc. Equipment: (Ice picks, flotation vest, heater, etc.):

• Insure all are working properly.

If older equipment needs repair or replacement it might be time to check out the new equipment that’s available. Advances in technology have provided this sport with numerous improvements; do not be afraid to try these new products. Just as important as your equipment is your knowledge of the areas you will be fishing and being able to distinguish bad ice from good ice. Questions at the local bait stores and to local anglers will help to keep you safe and possibly improve your catch. Always check state and local laws governing travel on frozen waterways.

Used courtesy of the State of Minnesota DNR

Tips:

Use caution when walking on unfamiliar waterways.

Always bring a spud bar to test conditions in front of your travel path.

Avoid pressure ridges and discolored ice patches.

Wearing of ice picks and a flotation device can save your life should you fall through.

Keep distance between you and other anglers, only approaching slowly and with their knowledge.

Never leave children unattended.

Never drive on early ice without local knowledge.

Never drive on ice at night.

Avoid alcoholic beverages for they can slow down your reaction time.

I wish you a great and safe start to this ice fishing season with many more to come!

Debbie Compton, NAIFC Pro Staff