I is for Ice Fishing

Several years ago my wife and I were on one of our early morning ski trips to northern Vermont by way of Route 9 N. It was before dawn and as we approached Crown Point, New York, we noticed what looked to be Christmas lights seemingly everywhere! As we drove nearer to the bridge across the southern part of frozen Lake Champlain we realized that the lights we were seeing were from hundreds of little huts and houses on the ice! It looked like a city!

As we crossed the bridge to Chimney Point, Vermont, it was becoming lighter and we could see that not only were there small buildings with smoke coming from them, but also ATV's, cars, and trucks - all on the ice. It was an ice-fishing village.

Since we now live here in the Adirondacks we have met many people who love to go ice fishing. Some are really into it and go almost everyday once the ice forms. And this year, with the extremely cold December here is the North Country, the ice has formed early.

I've learned that there are many basic, elaborate, simple or high-tech methods used by ice fishermen. The most basic of course is to put a hole in the ice. Just be sure not to put yourself in the water as a result! Making a hole requires an ice auger. There are two basic types of augers. Hand augers cost between $40 and $80, but require more effort to use. Gasoline models cost more - between $300 and $500, but they are more durable and require less exertion. Augers are usually available in 6, 8, and 10-inch diameters. Larger diameters cost more, but make it easier to bring a big fish through the hole.

The ice fisherman also needs some basic equipment - a rod, reel, and line. Ice rods are usually short, light, and sensitive. The reel should balance the rod and have a sensitive drag. The line should be four to six pound monofilament. Assorted baits and sinkers are used, but jigs made of feathers, animal hair, or synthetic materials seem to be most effective.

Finally, to go ice fishing, you'll need to dress in layers of warm clothing and wear heavy boots to protect your feet from the ice. Something to sit on is a good idea, as is some protection from the wind.

Since I don't know everything you need to know about ice fishing, be sure to do some research of your own before you go.

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