Ice fishing is a quintessential north woods experience. Just imagine gearing up in layers of warm clothes and boots, packing your fishing rod and tackle, your ice shanty, auger, snacks and warm drinks and you’ll have a pretty clear picture of a day on the ice. The view of the land from out on the white expanse of a frozen lake is unique, not to mention beautiful.

Ice fishing is a great way to spend quality time with friends and family. Kids and adults both love ice fishing, making it a great way for different generations to get outside and do something fun together.

The most important aspects of ice fishing are safety and warmth. If you’re new to the sport, hire an experience guide who will make sure you are safe and have a good time. If you’re new to the area, ask lots of questions and if you don’t know, don’t go. And finally, make sure you have enough warm layers and they are all in good condition. Even the best outer layer won’t do much good if it has a rip in it from last year that hasn’t been repaired and it just lets the cold air right in. And don’t forget to keep your hands and feet as warm as possible. Use hand warmers, and spend the extra money on good socks and thermal boots that will minimize the cold.

Local outfitters will be happy to set you up with everything you need to get out there and catch some fish, and might even tell you where the day’s hot spots are supposed to be. Licenses are required for ice fishing, and you’ll want to be sure you do your homework on the latest state fishing regulations.

Once you have everything you need, just pack some snacks, dress warmly, bring your bait and tackle and ice auger, and you’ll have a great day ice fishing.

If you’re interested in competitive ice fishing, or just like to watch others compete, the Lake-Link Ice Fishing Jamboree takes place each year and is a weekend of fun on the ice with cash prizes for winners; complete with a Friday Night Fish Fry at a local eatery.