Getting Started on the Ice

It was hard to believe, but by mid November many of our larger lakes had not frozen in. In the case of Lake Wabamun, my fishing buddy Arnold and I launched at the main dock on November 18th. It was unreal how this fall season was stretching out and quite frankly, I liked it but that has now changed.

The cold weather arrived Sunday November 25th with temperatures plummeting 10 – 20 degrees locking everything up solid. The little potholes were already frozen over and the ice was running 6 inches thick in the Edmonton area. The big lakes won’t be far behind. I can’t wait because I’m planning on getting back to some of my favorite haunts. Gull for big pike and whitefish. Star Lake for rainbows, South Buck for walleye and pike. It’s all good.

If you’re thinking of trying ice fishing this season, I would suggest you get at it. Yep, it’s colder, but that’s why we have long underwear, pop-up tents, catalytic heaters and girlfriends or boyfriends (we are Canadian). So, having conquered the cold, let’s look at what other things we’ll need to get started.

The first thing, a toboggan with bungee cords, is often overlooked but with all the equipment you will be packing across the ice it will definitely be appreciated. Another option is the Jet Sled available from The Fishin’ Hole as the high sides and deep basin make it excellent way to transport all your gear.

To effectively cut a hole in the ice I’ve tried just about everything. I’ve lobbed stones, used a jackknife, a hatchet, an axe, my dad once used a chainsaw (bad idea all around), a crowbar, a manual auger and finally a power auger. Given this vast experience I can say without prejudice that the ice auger is the tool of choice. Get an eight-inch model and make it a power auger if you can afford it. The manual ones work fine, but require some muscle power. My auger is an eight-inch StrikeMaster Laser Mag and it’s done the job beautifully.

After the holes are cut you’ll need something to scoop out the slushy ice. That’s where a plastic or metal ice scoop comes in handy. The metal is durable, but freezes readily to wet hands and the plastic model is less durable so I own both. After the holes are cut and cleaned, it’s all about fishing and staying comfortable. The pop-up tents work great for this. They cut the wind, generally have a built in chair and limit the light making it easier to see down the hole. You will also want to bring out some collapsible chairs. Nothing beats kicking back in the open air and soaking up the sun on a warm winter day.

That’s a good primer so pick your lake, pick your fish, bring your rods and tackle and have fun. Happy catching.