Ice fishing help

[Jswails07]

I was just wondering if someone could give me a crash course Of icefishing I have never been or know anything about it. Looking for techniques and tactics on how to catch the fish. Also where to start as far as tackle. I will be fishing for bluegill crappie perch whitefish and walleye. What your favorite jigs are that have always produced for you guys. And also what kinda rod/reel combo would be a good starter and what's the big difference between open face and inline reels there advantages and disadvantages. What test line would you run on the kind of fish I'm going after. Just anything you think I should know or check Into before going out. Any and all suggestions appreciated thanks

[mpopo603]

I'm no pro but I'll share what I can. First and most important make sure your on safe ice. Never risk it over a couple filets. With that being said I mostly ice fish for panfish. If it's a lake that I'm familiar with I try to drill holes In areas where I know that there is structure or some type of drop off or variation in lake bottom. Without any electronics, I typically start working my jig or bait from bottom and slowly work my way up until I get bit and mark the depth. This will give you an idea what depth the fish are holding at. If you get serious about ice fishing then you need to look into buying a vexilar, markum or any other sonar. They are a game changer when ice fishing. I've been with and without one and you will catch more guaranteed with one.

Presentation is important when ice fishing. For example, if your using a jig that is suppose to be horizontal mAke sure it stays that way after each catch. Be prepared to try different baits. One might be hot and then the bites quit. Try something different And your on again. Fish seem to come and go when ice fishing. I often drill multiple holes and when one slows down I switch amongst the holes that I drilled. I will fish multiple holes throughout the day As long as they are staying productive.

i usually tip my jigs with a waxie, a crappie nibble, a minnow or just the minnow's heAd. There are thousands of options for jigs. I would talk to the guys at the bait shop near you and ask what they use in your area. I like jigs that glow, blue/white, white/pink, and orange. I also like some jigs with little spinners. These combos work for me.

I use a spinning reel ice fishing combo with 4 lb test and it works for me but there are lots of choices. Most of that will be personal preference.

oh yeah, don't be afraid to fish shallower water they will be in there to depending on your lake. IMHO, spend the money on electronics before a gas auger if you had to choose between the two. Electronics will let you see your jig, what depth it's holding at and you can watch the fish come into range and you can then adjust your bait accordingly. YouTube some ice fishing videos and you can learn a lot there to. Good luck and tight lines.

[broz]

I did pm you . here are some web site that you can ask ??? most will help . if you pm them you will get better help ,Midwest Wisconsin Fishing Club
Wisconsin Ice Fishing Report
Get the latest Wisconsin Fishing Reports I hope this will help ,