Fishing Forum

Full Version: ice fishing
You're currently viewing a stripped down version of our content. View the full version with proper formatting.
hi, I'm new to this site and ice fishing, what are some good baits-lures for ice fishing i have been twice and love it. i religiously fly fish so ice fishing is very different to me. thanx
[signature]
Welcome to the BTF!
As you know ice fishing can be complicated if you get too involved with the nitty gritty. Some great baits to try that will catch most species are:

Halis: These jigs mimic a small bait fish feeding. Great for perch! Choose the smaller size with a little flash like gold. Perch pattens seem to work the best (generally). You can purchase at all the major stores. However support the locals at FishTech, they will give you a bunch of great tips as well.

Ratsos: These are great little jigs for panfish. Use like a finesse bait when fish are finicky. Trouble is that they are so light they tend to work better in shallow waters.

Bait: Tip jigs and ice flies with wax worms or other small worm like critters.

These are just a small selection of baits you can use. I generally tie on a Hali and a small ice fly 6-10 inches above. This set up seems to work in most situations, especially for pan fish. Also, once you have discovered the depth, use a bobber to detect strikes. Loop your line and slip on the bobber so when you hook one the bobber detaches from the line. Most fish will hug the bottom so fishing just off (4-6") the bottom works best. If you haven't got one already, a fish finder is a great piece of equipment on the ice. Even cheapies like the "fishing buddy" series work well or finding fish and knowing when to jig or sit.

Hopes this helps a little, I am sure you will get more advice than what you can put into practice!

Private message me if would like to go ice fishing sometime.
[signature]