<h1>Ice Fishing</h1>
Ice fishing can be compared to fly fishing in that it can be a solitary endeavor. This does not exclude those fishermen who like a little company while fishing. Ice fishing has become increasingly popular
among those who appreciate company on the ice. More and
more people are joining the ranks of those who enjoy the sport of ice fishing.Of course, if you are going ice fishing, you must have a frozen lake with fish in it Ice fishermen drill a hole in the ice; plop themselves down on a seat of some sort and then wait for the fish. The number of participants is growing as the years pass.
Obviously ice fishing would be a favorite among those living in the northern most states of The US. It does indeed prosper there but many would be surprised that there is also good ice fishing much further south. Colorado might not be much of a stretch for ice fishing but there are also several excellent sites in the mountains of Arizona.
Ice fishing in isolated areas does not mean you will not need a license. Since many lakes are on private property, You need to make sure you are going to a lake that is open for ice fishing. Some of the secluded lakes may be privately owned or may be preserves where ice fishing is not allowed.
Just as there are different locales for ice fishing, there are also different types of fish to be found in those locales. Ice fishermen often bait their hooks looking for walleye. Right before sundown and just before sun up are good times to test the ice fishing waters for these fish.
Obviously, taking to the ice to fish means you will need special gear. Clothing will be one of the most important parts of your equipment. Dress to ice fish just like you would dress to go out in extremely cold weather. Wear multiple layers and do not forget to cover your head, ears, and neck.
Since the ice does not come pre-drilled with holes. Ice fishermen open the ice with their own augers. Do not cut an opening any wider than one foot across. Once you have drilled the hole. Keep ice from collecting in it by using a long handled skimmer with a woven basket to scoop chips out of the hole.
Hearty souls may choose to sit out in the open while ice fishing. A lot of ice fishers find that bringing a portable ice shack with them increases their enjoyment. Shacks allow the fishermen to stay on the ice for longer periods of time. Some ice fishers have semi-permanent shacks that are large enough to accommodate several people at one time.
All ice fishermen have their own favorite tackle and strategy. The type of fishing rod you choose will depend on the type of fish you are after. Perch can be quite large so choose big hooks and strong fishing rods. Many times you will be able to catch perch in the middle depths of the lake.
Therefore, whether you are looking for something to do while you wait for spring or winter is your favorite time of year, ice fishing may be just the sport for you. Grab your gear. Stock up your sled and head for the lake before it thaws. You may just discover that ice fishing is one hot sport.