Growing up in Northern Wisconsin typically means long winters with several feet of snow and many days well below zero. When I was a kid, winter was also a time that I spent with my dad on the ice. He taught me the basics, was patient, and encouraged me each time that we were out fishing. I have my dad to thank for getting me started and showing me the basics. He is also the reason that I enjoy introducing the sport to others.
In February of 2019, I hosted the First Annual “Ladies Midwest Meetup” in Chetek, Wisconsin, an ice fishing event for women that live throughout the Midwest. The participants ranged in skill level; some of them had little to no experience. The newcomers learned how to set up tip-ups, jig while reading a flasher, operate an auger, choose appropriate tackle for certain species and the list goes on. Months of planning went into this weekend to ensure that everyone involved would learn, have fun and want to go ice fishing again. The best thing about the sport of ice fishing is that anyone can do it.
Maybe you are reading this and you are thinking of teaching kids to ice fish, or you have a spouse who might have an interest in learning the sport, or you want to learn for yourself. I am going to share some tips on how to introduce newcomers to ice fishing and a few ways to keep it fun.
Ice Safety is Vital
Ice safety and being prepared are two of the most important aspects when it comes to the hardwater season. Before taking someone new out on the ice, they need to be informed about checking for safe ice and what to do if they fall through. Showing them how to use an ice chisel and ice picks are a great way to introduce ice safety. One key tip that can be remembered at all ages is to keep the windows rolled down while driving on the ice in case the vehicle breaks through. Adults can also benefit from learning about ice thickness, such as knowing when the ice is safe to walk on, when it can handle snowmobile and ATV traffic, and automobile traffic. However, keep in mind that the ice is never completely safe.
Appropriate Clothing
Experienced anglers know that weather conditions can change in the blink of an eye, which means that you need the appropriate gear and the right amount. When taking someone new out on the ice, it’s vital that they are wearing the proper clothing. Start with warm base layers, wool socks, a middle layer such as sweatshirt and sweatpants, and a jacket and bibs to keep dry and block out the wind. Also, wearing the proper size boots is extremely important. From personal experience, buying boots that are a little big is the way to go. A little extra room allows for thick socks and plenty of space for feet to breathe. Too often I hear from others about their feet getting cold before any other part of the body, which is typically because they are wearing boots that fit too snug.
Specifically, young children tend to get cold at a fast rate, so multiple layers and proper boots can help reduce this problem. After all, you want the newcomer to focus on learning how to catch fish and have fun, and not about how cold they are. Aside from clothing, an ice shack and a heater will add additional warmth and keep everyone out of the elements.
Start With the Basics
Now the fun part — getting the new anglers on the ice to fish. Depending on their age, you may want to teach small amounts of information at a time. Start with the basics, such as how to set up a tip-up and what to do when a flag goes up. Tip-up fishing is an old tradition and was the first method that I learned from my dad. Kids will enjoy tip-up fishing and stay intrigued, especially if the flags are popping.
Other aspects that can be taught, depending on age, include learning how to jig, reading a flasher, using an auger, understanding a lake map, choosing tackle for panfish vs. tackle for walleyes or northern pike, etc. When teaching someone the basics of ice fishing, allow the experience to be hands-on to keep the participant engaged.
The approach that I like to use is tell, show, do. First, start by telling them what to do and why. Then, demonstrate the action as the individual observes. Lastly, have the individual perform the task while you watch. Kids will want to jump right to the “doing” step, even if they have no idea what they are doing. Combine the process as needed to keep kids engaged and having fun.
If you want to learn how to ice fish and you are going on your own, I suggest doing some research on what equipment and supplies you should buy for your first time out. The equipment you use does not have to be expensive or any specific brand. Instead, it is important that the equipment is in good working condition and can successfully perform as needed. Talk with other anglers, local bait shops, or research online to find the best deals on equipment. Keep in mind, the supplies you buy will depend on what species you are planning to target.
Positivity for the Win
I want to stress the importance of maintaining a good attitude and patience throughout the entire excursion with newcomers. Even if the fish are not biting and everything seems to be going wrong, staying positive will help a new angler have a solid experience, which will hopefully lead to them wanting to get out again. During the ladies ice fishing event I hosted this past February, each new angler was able to have a solid first impression and catch fish due to all of the support, encouragement and patience they received from everyone in the group.
When the fish aren’t biting, there are plenty of activities that can be done to keep newcomers engaged. Let’s focus on kids for a moment. When I was little, my dad would bring a shovel and ice skates along so that I would have something to do while we waited for the evening walleye bite. You know your children better than anyone, so bring items along that they will enjoy. I would encourage leaving the phones and other electronics at home so that family time can truly be spent with your children outdoors.
Young kids will not hold their attention for too long, especially if the fish are not active. Keep the trip short, yet long enough for them to have a chance at catching fish. Also, I suggest taking kids out on a fair-weather day instead of a day that is calling for extreme winter conditions. The weather cannot be controlled, of course, but looking ahead at the forecast can help to determine a good day to take the kids out for the first time. Lastly, having snacks and plenty to drink is great for any age.
Two of the best aspects of ice fishing are that it can be learned at any age, and that it’s a wonderful way to spend time with family and friends during the long winter months. So, whether you want to learn on your own or have an interest in teaching someone else, I hope these tips will help in your future pursuit.
