GEAR
UP
ICE
FISHING
ESSENTIALS CHELSEA SCHWABE CHELSEA SCHWABE
Winter transforms Wisconsin’s lakes into endless miles of frozen fishing action and adventure. With more than 24% of the annual catch in Wisconsin occurring between December and March, experienced and novice anglers alike bundle up and hit the ice for a unique
fishing experience. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources experts and the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Institute suggest gearing up with these essentials for a successful season from the water top.
FOR THE SETUP TOBOGGAN OR SLED: To haul equipment onto the ice. ICE AUGER: Use to drill the fishing hole in the ice. The hole should be no more than 12 inches across. SKIMMER: Scooping tool for removing slush or ice chips from the fishing hole. ICE CHISEL: Pick-like tool to create holes early in the ice fishing season when the ice is thinner. SEAT: Wait for the fish to bite on a small stool, folding chair or even a 5-gallon bucket.
For more ice safety tips, scan the QR code.
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Chelsea Schwabe is a publications supervisor in the DNR's Office of Communications.
