ICE FISHING

SINCE WE ARE NEARLY AGAIN INTO ICE FISHING SEASON AND I LOVE TO FISH,
Here's a page of fun from 2008-2009 seasons!

My ice rod army standing at attention.
They all point to a different place to do battle.

Rainbows this size on an ice rod are pretty terrific, and will warm you up in a hurry. They
do run out line a couple times, there's nothing like the sound of a squealing drag in the
frosty air.

A very nice rainbow trout.

Note we have different rainbows and different cutthroat trout sub species.

I really like the high visability braided dacron line for tip up fishing.

While ice fishermen have traditionally been an inventive bunch, crafting
their own tools, and equipment, the modern sporting goods stores stock
some pretty useful and handy accessories. Shelter, fish finder, and power
ice auger have revolutionized the sport.

For those who are die hards, the shelter is pretty handy some days, be
sure to anchor if the wind comes up. This shelter will hold two or three
fishermen when needed. A double mantle lantern will keep it warm most
days. Night fishing requires a propane bottle and a real heater. I have since
sold this one due to not needing it as much as I needed a new fish finder.

The 18 year old fish finder is still pretty handy. Most fish cruise near the bottom, but,
some places the fish suspend and that is where the electronics really
helps the ice fisherman get fish. The black plastic box keeps the battery
a little warmer so it lasts longer in the cold temperatures.

Be sure to get a good
quality vacume bottle thermos for hot liquids. Cheap ones seem to break.

The modern ice auger is a godsend. No more being tied to a few hard won
holes. Now, we move to new holes at a moments notice if the fish aren't
agreeable. Above, a limit of Flaming Gorge rainbow trout, and a 28 year old
Jiffy auger that is for the most part as valuable as a new one.

I offer my 2008 sled, as proof of our inventiveness as ice fishermen.
Yes, those were my $200 used down hill skis. They work great here too!
I have more miles on the sled with them than I did down hill skiing.

A nice eating size lake trout. I do prefer the rainbow for eating.

Rainbows and ling.

Some serious rainbows below. Next time your in the grocery store, check the prices of fresh fish.

The hole in the bucket is to stick a rod handle in so the fish don't take the rod down the hole.

For most of my best fishing spots, the shelter is only needed on cloudy windy days or at night.

A great sport, and even better eating.
What's in the red bag, well, that's a secret, mostly my bait and my mojo.

Its your turn to catch one now!

Dave Freeman's Information Page Welcome!