| It's great to fish in the summer when the air is warm | | | | of solid construction are best, and even better are |
| and the lake is calm. There are fishermen, though, | | | | those that are waterproof. Ice fishing involves playing |
| who can't wait for winter and the lake to freeze | | | | in cold water, after all! |
| solid. Ice fishing is a sport that many people enjoy, | | | | Some other accessories you'll need are a warm hat |
| extending the fishing season to year-round pleasure. | | | | and sunglasses. Bright sunlight reflects on the white |
| What's more, ice fishing is a great family activity. | | | | snow and ice, which can be brutal on your eyesight |
| What makes ice fishing so appealing to families is that | | | | and vision. Many ice anglers who don't wear |
| the sport isn't just about catching fish. Getting | | | | sunglasses come home and realize they can't see well |
| outdoors and breathing crisp, good air while having | | | | for over half an hour! Since the sun is so strong and |
| fun sums up ice fishing well. Smiles, laughs, and playing | | | | the reflection off the snow amplifies its effects, it's |
| in the snow are all pretty common occurrences while | | | | also easy to get sunburned, so apply plenty of sun |
| out on the ice. Those reasons are just some of the | | | | block to avoid red cheeks. |
| few that even people who hate fishing get hooked | | | | If you're new to ice fishing, choose an outfitter that |
| on this winter activity. If you'd like to try a day of | | | | will provide you with a cabin, a stove, lines, minnows |
| ice fishing with your family, here are some things to | | | | and a hole-drilling service. These outfitters want to |
| keep in mind. | | | | make sure you enjoy your day as much as possible |
| Ice fishing is usually a whole-day activity. Get out on | | | | and will set you up with everything you need for |
| the ice early after breakfast to enjoy the best hours. | | | | hours of fun. The employees will also be more than |
| If you plan on bringing home a bunch of perch for a | | | | happy to answer your questions and give you tips on |
| meal, then being ready with your lines in the water | | | | how to fish. Once you're set up, respect other |
| by the time the sun starts to rise is best. Fish tend | | | | people around you. Have a good time, but don't blast |
| to bite in the early morning or later in the afternoon, | | | | a radio to upset the peace and quiet of other anglers. |
| depending on the species. The period in between | | | | Don't throw waste on the ice either and have a care |
| usually ends up being playtime for families rather than | | | | for the environment. Some fishermen pour antifreeze |
| hours spent reeling up the fish. | | | | in their holes to prevent ice from forming but |
| Pack a good lunch and some snacks, because the | | | | antifreeze is toxic and this practice is an irresponsible |
| fresh air and activity will stir appetites. Lots of finger | | | | one. Use the metal spoon provided to keep your |
| foods and plenty of water to drink serve the | | | | holes from freezing over. |
| purpose nicely. It's a good idea to avoid bringing beer | | | | In addition, if you aren't going to eat the fish you |
| with you, though, as alcohol and cold don't mix well. | | | | catch, handle them gently and practice catch and |
| Alcohol can lower your body temperature and the | | | | release. The growth rate and reproduction of fish is |
| chill in the air makes it harder to feel the effects You | | | | quite slow, which means negligent or abusive |
| may end up going overboard without realizing you've | | | | behaviour can put a dent in fish populations. |
| had one to many to make the safe drive home. | | | | Lastly, pack up and head home before you get tired. |
| Staying warm while ice fishing is a must. The open-air | | | | Being outside for a few hours in cold temperatures |
| location will often carry a good breeze, so windproof | | | | will hit you hard once you get into a warm car. By |
| clothing should be your first consideration. Plenty of | | | | the time you get home, you'll probably feel |
| layers underneath warm sweaters will trap the heat | | | | exhausted. After a day of ice fishing, ordering a pizza |
| and keep you feeling toasty. Good boots and mitts | | | | for supper can be a godsend! |