NAIFC

Experts in the Rhinelander, WI area are forecasting what is expected to be a “significant outbreak” of Ice Mania over the December 17th – 20th time period.

Ice Mania, clinically known as “Glacies Appareo”, is a condition that occurs predominantly in humans and is characterized by excessive or intense enthusiasm, interest, or compulsion for all aspects of ice fishing. Little is known about the exact cause of Ice Mania; however experts do agree on three key indicators: that the condition does not discriminate in age or gender, that it manifests mostly in residents of what is commonly called the “Ice Belt” region of the United States, and that it only seems to occur whenever several inches of ice is found covering medium- to large-sized bodies of freshwater known to contain fish.

According to the latest studies, the condition is reported to strike entire families at once, often with little or no warning, causing sudden and drastic changes in behavior and speech patterns. Some of the more overt symptoms include:

• Elevation in outdoor activity during cold weather months
• Significant dietary increase of panfish
• Household chores left unattended
• Favorite TV programs missed
• Pervasive smiling
• Shivering
• Apparent obsession with frozen lakes
• Increased use of words or phrases like “jig” and “nice eater”

Brian Gaber, a long-time Rhinelander resident and renowned Icemaniologist, suggests that the best way to cope with Ice Mania is to simply allow the condition to run its course. “Don’t fight it,” says Gaber. “Doing so will likely prove futile, and eventually contribute to feelings of regret and longing in place of the relief one would expect to feel once all the ice melts in spring.”

The City of Rhinelander agrees. They, along with area businesses, residents, and the North American Ice Fishing Circuit (NAIFC), have formed a strong and dedicated coalition aimed at helping families and individuals at risk of developing Ice Mania to cope with, embrace and celebrate this enigmatic condition.

“We can help,” responds Jack Baker, President of the NAIFC Tournament Series, when asked by the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce what could be done to organize a series of topical events on and around Boom Lake. “Our organization is all about tapping the potential of Ice Mania by encouraging open demonstration of associated behaviors. We also provide a number of ways in which unaffected or ‘at risk’ folks can get involved and prepare for the inevitable,” Baker continues. “You know, it’s really just a matter of perspective. For example, some people call it a ‘sport’ or ‘pastime’, rather than a ‘condition’ or ‘acting like a crazy person’.”

Baker’s fresh perspective has, apparently, been adopted by the powers-that-be in Rhinelander, who hope to send a clear and lasting message to the world this December: We’re all “Ice Maniacs”, and there’s nothing wrong with it.

Events and activities planned for December 17th – 20th in Rhinelander include:

Ice Fishing Seminar

(Free admission, all ages, open to the public) held at Shoeder’s Marine and Sport Center on Thursday, December 17th, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Sponsored locally by Shoeder’s Sport and Marine Center and Wal-Mart, this informational seminar features the legendary Dave Genz (www.davegenz.com), Ice Camp youth program instructor Jim Kasuda, and local Pro Brian Gaber. An excellent opportunity for the entire family to learn successful techniques and systems developed over decades of experience by the best ice anglers in the business. Bring your favorite rod and GPS, and learn how to get the most out of them. Along with instruction tailored especially for them, kids will receive complimentary ice gear and prizes.

The 2009 North American Ice Fishing Circuit National Championship Invitational
(Free admission, all ages, open to the public)

The main event will be held on Boom Lake from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, December 19th and 20th, with competitors launching out of Hodag Park. Cast and crew from the award winning Ice Men television series will be on site filming episodes for the show’s second season, which will air on Versus beginning December 30th. Indoor weigh-in festivities and the awards ceremony will be held at the Northwoods Banquet Center (Taj Mahal) starting at 3:00 pm each day.