Hardwater Gold
By Chris Powell
Well it’s just about that time of year to go hit the ice, and here in northwest Wisconsin, we have bountiful opportunities to hit ice fishing gold. First ice around here is usually hot. Lakes such as Marshmiller, Otter, the Chetek Chain, Menomin, and Miller Dam are popular with local anglers in search of a good meal of bluegills. Look in the shallow water during this early ice period. Tear drops, moon jigs, and rockers work well tipped with waxies, wigglers, or if you can find them, mousies.
Early ice is also a great time to break out the tip-ups for bass and northern pike. I usually set out two tip-ups while I jig. I like to use a mono leader about 18 inches long with a split shot eight inches above a number 4 treble hook, tipped with a small to medium northern shiner. I will usually set one shiner directly under the ice and place one near the bottom as well. First ice is also a great time to catch walleyes by way of jigging pole or on tip-ups. Personally, I prefer jigging them with a jigging shad rap, as they put up a great tussle and taste great afterward. Look for them in low-light hours of the day in 10-20 feet of water.
I know many of you diehard ice fishermen and women hear this every year, but it is worth repeating: No fish is worth risking your life over. Always use caution when heading out onto the ice, especially this early in the season. Always bring a spud bar along to check the ice for weak spots, and never fish alone. It is a good idea to pick up ice picks to hang around your neck, just in case you do fall through. These will help you to pull yourself out. Also, with the lack of snow the last couple of years, it would be a good idea to invest in a pair of ice cleats to help with traction. These lakes can get downright slippery!
I wish you all a fun and safe ice fishing season!