Ice fishing poses a unique set of environmental challenges for both the fisherman and his or her equipment. Frigid weather, frozen surfaces, and harsher climates force an ice fisher to prepare for not only the task at hand - fishing - but also the climates they’ll be fishing in. Frigid conditions, hefty workloads, and potentially dangerous situations are all just part of the game when it comes to fishing out on the ice. Simply put, ice fishing is just one of those sports where preparation is just as important as the action of fishing itself.
Have a look at the checklist below, and run through your inventory of gear. Always be sure to bring your up-to-date fishing permits and licenses along for the trip.
Click here to download a printable PDF shopping list.
Essential Fishing Gear
Equipping oneself for angling on the ice requires specialty equipment that can handle the environmental demands. The implications of these differences results in vastly different options for rods, reels, lines, tackle, and accessories. Fishing in icy conditions puts unique strains on one’s equipment, but attracting that catch-of-the-day can be an even more demanding task for your terminal tackle. Accessories unique to fishing on the ice are also listed here for your essential gear checklist.
Item | Why You Need It |
Protect Your Equipment from Salt | |
Tip Up | |
Tool for Cutting Line | |
Lip Grip | Tool for Safely Gripping Mouth of Fish |
Assists with Bringing in Catch | |
Place Catch for Live Transportation | |
Tool for Line/Leader/Hook Manipulation | |
Dry Your Tools and Yourself! | |
Cooler | Keep Items Cool |
Basic Gear
In addition to your activity-specific essentials, it’s always important to also pack for the outdoors with some basic gear. This gear can improve your safety and comfort while ensuring that you make the most of your trip. While you may choose to opt out of some of these items, be sure to review the list to know what’s recommended for your trip.
Item | Why You Need It |
Communication with Traveling Partners | |
Portable Energy Source | |
Camera | Remember the Day! |
Navigational Assistance | |
Navigational Assistance | |
Energy Food/Snacks | |
Keep Extremities Warm in Cool Conditions | |
Essential Tool | |
Light Source and Energy Source | |
Relax in Comfort | |
Detect Depths Below Ice | |
Ice Sled | Transport Gear Across Ice Easily |
Clothing
The attire you choose to wear for your ice fishing trip can make or break your experience altogether. Nowadays, many pieces of ice clothing and accessories are designed with user comfort and safety in mind, making for a more enjoyable experience overall. In fact, opting to forego many of the basics is simply not an option if you truly want to spend some time out on the ice without getting frostbite or other ailments.
Item | Why You Need It |
Waterproof Insulation | |
Traction on the Ice | |
Keep Warm in Cool Conditions | |
Light Torso Protection | |
Waterproof Coveralls | Keeps Legs Dry and Warm |
Protect Yourself from the Rain | |
Keeps Your Face Warm | |
Insulation for Head | |
Insulation for Neck |
First Aid
As with any outdoor activity, you’ll want to ensure that you always bring your first aid essentials along for the trip. Keep in mind that wetter fishing conditions require first aid equipment that is stored in a watertight bag and that is designed to protect the user even in the presence of water. Also, conditions for ice fishing make emergency situations more dangerous if you aren’t prepared to handle lower temperatures. Always bring extra heaters and thermal blankets in case of an emergency.
Item | Why You Need It |
Cover Wounds and Keep them Dry | |
Necessary Insulation When Stranded |
