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+--- Thread: Ready... Set... Wait! (/showthread.php?tid=956453)
Ready... Set... Wait! - Troutman_2 - 12-14-2015
The week or two before safe ice is abundant is the hardest for me. I am itching to get out on the hard deck but don't want to join the "All the way under" club.
I thought I would post a few tips of good things to do while we wait for the hard water.
If you have any tips of your own please share them.
Re-Spool my ice fishing reels - Damaged or short lines can be the difference between a trophy on the ice or a frustrated fisherman. Re-spool at home and dispose of the old line properly. Doing this a few days before your first trip will help prevent backlashes as the line develops a memory for the spool shape.
Check and Charge batteries - The electronic tools we depend on need power to run. A dead battery is best discovered well before you climb in your ice tent.
Sharpen or replace auger blades - Sharp auger blades make cutting though ice a breeze. With a sharp auger you will spend less time drilling and be able to drill more holes to help you find the elusive fish.
Stock up on jigs/lures - Check the tackle box to make sure you have a supply of your favorite hooks. I love the Hali and Manic lures fir ice fishing. A variety of sizes and colors will pay off when the fish get picky.
Buy bait - Have that conversation with your significant other and reserve some space in the fridge for bait. Wax, meal, and butter worms get pretty scarce early in the ice fishing season. They'll keep pretty well for a few days or more in your fridge. Don't wait to pick yours up or the good citizens of Tent City may clean them out first.
Check the essentials - Ice claws, rope, cleats, and even a whistle may save your life or the life of a fellow fisherman. Make sure you still fit in your winter gear if Thanksgiving is still hanging around your mid-section.
When you do get out on the ice, don't forget to take some pics of your catch to share! Bragging rights are only granted if photographic evidence is provided. Like my buddy says, "Show me the pic or it didn't happen!"
Tight Lines!
The pic is from this past January on Barney Fife's Reservoir.
Re: [Troutman_2] Ready... Set... Wait! - hookngrinin - 12-14-2015
Very good tips. Thanks. I have been making preparations for ice fishing by taking care of the things on your list waiting for thicker ice. I'm ready to get after it now.
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Re: [Troutman_2] Ready... Set... Wait! - wagdog - 12-14-2015
All great tips.
I also took the time this year to sharpen hooks. I bought some new ice flies recently and a few had dull hooks or hook points with paint on them. Sharpening hooks is quick and easy. No one wants to lose fish because of dull hooks.
I will often take a change of clothes that I stash in the truck in the case that I do go through the ice. Some would say that I'm...gravitationally challenged[cool]
Another tip for bait. Earthworms/nightcrawlers are tough. They can last a long time as long as they don't freeze. Wax worms are great but if they get too cold in the fridge they turn black and die. They seem to live longer at around 40 degrees. Once you see some turning black, take them out of the container.
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Re: [wagdog] Ready... Set... Wait! - Bmarsh - 12-14-2015
Whats this waiting part you speak of? Already been on the hard deck 4 times with the first being 3 weeks ago. No need to wait just have to travel.
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