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Thursday, 21 January 2016 11:06

All Outdoors:At Long Last!

By | Sports

Those whooshing sounds you heard was a collective sigh of relief from all the ice fishermen out there who had wondered if they would see their favorite fishing holes would freeze this winter. Cold weather finally descended from the northern latitudes and buttoned up most of the local waters. Ice fishermen ventured cautiously out onto the fresh ice and declared, “It’s good”! The ice-fishing season has begun and for that, on behalf of all ice fishermen (and ladies) and winter enthusiasts in the region, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the clippers from Alberta, Jack Frost and all of you for your cold wishes that finally came true.

WARNING!

Don’t just throw caution to the arctic wind and rush out onto the ice just because someone said the lake was frozen or you saw people out there. Some of those people may place less value on their hides than you or they may truly be crazy. All discussions about safe ice starts with a statement that goes something like this, “No ice is safe”. Studies carried out by agencies as diverse as the Army Corps of Engineers and the departments of natural resources of various states all agree closely about minimum safe ice thickness for various loads. There are also different qualities or conditions of ice that can affect its strength. The problem with minimum safe ice thickness is that there is no room for error. Ice quality and thickness can vary within a few feet so the smart money says not to risk your neck on thin ice. Type: “How much ice is safe” in the search box when you go online and a number of sites will come up that will offer their findings. Personally, I don’t like to go out on ice that is less than six inches thick because if it varies by an inch or two, there’s still enough to support my well-fed form. The same reasoning goes if you’re considering taking a vehicle out on the ice. Wait until the ice exceeds minimum thickness as indicated on the charts by a few inches to reduce the chance of mishap. Educate yourself, take precautions and don’t take unnecessary risks. No fish are worth swimming for this time of the year and I’d like you to read my column next month!

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, it’s time to have some fun. Once you’ve determined that the ice is safe enough for you to venture onto, you can get down to the serious business of catching a mess of fish. Ice fishing is like most other sports and pastimes; you can keep it simple or go hog wild. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed with all the tackle choices you’ll find at the local tackle shop. All you really need is an ice bar or a hand auger to cut through the ice and a jigging rod or tip-ups to fish with. An assorted selection of hooks, jigs and bait will round out the basic needs. Ask a friend to help with tackle choices or pick the brain of the shop proprietor. Both are great resources and want you to be successful.  Of course, you don’t want to forget a bucket for your catch that will double as a seat while you tempt the fish to bite. 

Ice fishing is supposed to be fun, so pick a day fit for man and beast if you’re a rookie, you know, a Goldilocks day. Learning the ropes is easier when you’re not battling frostbite. Speaking of which, make sure you dress properly. Multiple layers, a windproof shell, extra gloves and a towel to dry your hands are essential if you want to be comfortable. If you’re a veteran, you know what I’m talking about. 

Think of a really big number. That is how many books, articles and blogs have been written to tell you just exactly what you need to buy, where to go and how to use what you bought to dominate your piscatorial adversaries. This article won’t increase that number and besides, I don’t have enough space. This is a “learn by doing” activity. Apply the advice generously provided by others and be flexible in your technique. Pay attention to details that an experienced tutor may not mention because it is just automatic to them. Usually less is more when it comes to ice fishing. Use lighter line, tie directly to the jig instead of using a snap and move the lure less. A light action rod will help you to detect subtle strikes when the fish are finicky. You will soon be hooked as firmly as the fish you’re pulling up through the ice. 

Now that you’re an ice fisherman and have pictures to prove it, you can start looking at all the neat gadgets, electronics, shelters, special clothing, snowmobiles etc. etc. etc. that promise to make you a better fisherman, catch more fish, keep you more comfortable and get you to where the fish are biting in style. I’ve used those things and they will help you be a more efficient angler but I still like to keep it simple. You will decide for yourself how far down the rabbit hole to go and you will have fun doing it. I’ll be happy to help you on that journey, just give me a call if you have any questions or to share an adventure.

Until next time, stay on top, catch a bunch and enjoy the fish fry!    

 

Tim Blodgett, owner of Saratoga Tackle & Archery, can be reached at 518-584-3952. The store has a new location, at 111 Green St, Schuylerville. For further information, visit Saratogatackle.com or find Saratoga Tackle on Facebook. 

 

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