Ohio Catfish Fishing Tips

Catfish are one of the most popular fish to catch in Ohio. They can be found in rivers, lakes, ponds and reservoirs throughout the state. Catfish are opportunistic feeders that will eat almost anything, from worms and minnows to cheese and hot dogs. Here are some tips to help you catch more catfish in Ohio.

- Choose the right bait. Depending on the type of catfish you are targeting, you may want to use different baits. Channel catfish are the most common and will bite on a variety of baits, such as chicken liver, nightcrawlers, shrimp and stink baits. Flathead catfish are more predatory and prefer live bait, such as bluegill, shad and carp. Blue catfish are also carnivorous and will eat cut bait, such as chunks of shad or herring.

- Choose the right time and place. Catfish are more active at night and during low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk. They also tend to feed near the bottom of the water, especially near structures like rocks, logs, dams and bridges. Look for areas where there is a change in depth, current or temperature, as these may attract catfish.

- Choose the right tackle. You will need a sturdy rod and reel that can handle the weight and fight of a catfish. A medium-heavy or heavy action rod with a baitcasting or spinning reel is recommended. You will also need a strong line, such as braided or monofilament, with a test strength of at least 15 pounds. A leader line of 20 to 30 pounds may also be useful to prevent abrasion from the catfish's mouth and teeth. You can use a variety of hooks, such as circle hooks, treble hooks or J-hooks, depending on your preference and bait. A sinker or weight may also be needed to keep your bait near the bottom.

- Be patient and persistent. Catfish are not always easy to catch, especially if they are not hungry or active. You may have to try different baits, locations and techniques until you find what works best for you. Don't give up if you don't get a bite right away. Sometimes it may take hours before a catfish decides to strike.

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South Carolina Saltwater Fishing Secrets

If you are looking for some of the best saltwater fishing in the United States, you should definitely check out South Carolina. The state has over 180 miles of coastline, with a variety of habitats and fish species to explore. Whether you want to catch redfish, flounder, trout, cobia, tarpon, or sharks, you will find plenty of opportunities in South Carolina's saltwater fishing grounds.

One of the secrets to successful saltwater fishing in South Carolina is knowing where and when to fish. Depending on the season, tide, weather, and water temperature, different fish will be more active and abundant in different areas. For example, in the spring and fall, you can find redfish and trout in the shallow marshes and creeks, where they feed on shrimp and crabs. In the summer, you can target cobia and tarpon near the beaches and inlets, where they migrate along the coast. In the winter, you can catch flounder and sheepshead around docks and bridges, where they seek warmer water.

Another secret to saltwater fishing in South Carolina is using the right bait and tackle. Depending on what fish you are targeting, you will need different types of rods, reels, lines, hooks, and lures. For example, if you are fishing for redfish and trout, you will need a light to medium spinning rod and reel, with 10 to 15 pound test line, and a variety of soft plastic baits or live shrimp. If you are fishing for cobia and tarpon, you will need a heavy spinning or conventional rod and reel, with 30 to 50 pound test line, and a variety of live or artificial baits such as eels, crabs, mullet, or bucktail jigs.

The last secret to saltwater fishing in South Carolina is having fun and being respectful of the environment. Saltwater fishing is a great way to enjoy nature and relax with your friends and family. However, you should also be aware of the rules and regulations that apply to saltwater fishing in South Carolina, such as size limits, bag limits, seasons, and licenses. You should also practice catch and release whenever possible, and avoid harming or disturbing the fish habitat. By doing so, you will help preserve the saltwater fishing resources for future generations.

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Helpful Tips for Night Fishing

Night fishing can be a fun and rewarding activity, but it also requires some extra preparation and safety measures. Here are some helpful tips for night fishing that will make your experience more enjoyable and successful.

- Choose a familiar spot. It is easier to navigate and fish in a place that you know well during the day. You will also have a better idea of where the fish are likely to be and what baits and lures to use.

- Use a headlamp or flashlight. A hands-free light source will help you see what you are doing and avoid accidents. You can also use a flashlight to attract fish by shining it on the water surface or near your bait.

- Use glow-in-the-dark or reflective gear. You can make your rod, line, bobber, and lure more visible by using glow-in-the-dark or reflective materials. This will help you see your casts and strikes better and avoid tangling with other anglers.

- Be quiet and stealthy. Fish are more sensitive to noise and vibration at night, so you need to be quiet and stealthy when approaching and fishing your spot. Avoid slamming doors, talking loudly, or walking heavily on the shore or boat deck.

- Dress appropriately and bring extra clothes. Night fishing can get cold, especially if you get wet or there is a breeze. Dress in layers and bring extra clothes in case you need to change. You should also wear a life jacket if you are fishing from a boat or near deep water.

- Check the weather and moon phase. The weather and moon phase can affect the fish activity and behavior at night. Generally, cloudy nights with a full moon are better for night fishing, as they provide more light and stimulate the fish feeding. Clear nights with a new moon are worse, as they make the fish more wary and less active.

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Walleyes in the Detroit River

The Detroit River is a prime destination for walleye fishing in North America. Every spring, millions of walleye migrate from Lake Erie to the Detroit River to spawn on rocky substrates. Anglers flock to the river to catch these prized fish, which can reach trophy sizes and provide delicious meals.

Walleye are cool water fish that can adapt to a variety of habitats. They have large eyes that help them see in low-light conditions, and they feed on smaller fish, insects and crustaceans. Walleye are typically olive-green or brown on their backs, with yellow or white bellies and dark spots on their fins.

The best time to fish for walleye on the Detroit River is from late March to early May, when the water temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The most popular technique is vertical jigging, which involves dropping a weighted jig with a minnow or plastic bait near the bottom and lifting it up and down. Walleye tend to congregate near drop-offs, current breaks and other structures that provide cover and food.

The legal walleye limit on the Detroit River is five walleye per day (15-inch slot) on the American side and six walleye per day on the Canadian side . Anglers need a valid fishing license from either country, and they must follow the regulations of the country they are fishing in. A passport or enhanced driver's license is required to cross the border.

The Detroit River walleye run is a spectacular event that attracts thousands of anglers every year. It is a great opportunity to experience some of the best walleye fishing in the world and enjoy the scenic views of the river and its surroundings.

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Ontario Canada Crappie Fishing - Techniques, Tips

Ontario is a great destination for crappie fishing, as it has many lakes, rivers and reservoirs that hold healthy populations of both black and white crappies. Crappies are fun to catch and delicious to eat, but they can also be challenging to locate and target, especially in the fall season. Here are some techniques and tips to help you catch more crappies in Ontario.

- Use a sonar unit and a bottom-contour map to find crappie hotspots. Crappies tend to move from their summer habitats, such as deep weedlines, reed beds and docks, to their winter habitats, such as deep pockets and basins with soft, muddy bottoms. Look for areas where the fish are filtering out and trickling in, and scan for schools of crappies suspended off the bottom or near cover.

- Choose the right bait and presentation for crappies. Crappies are opportunistic feeders that will eat a variety of prey, such as minnows, insects, worms and crustaceans. You can use live bait, such as minnows or worms, or artificial lures, such as jigs, spinners, crankbaits or flies. The key is to match the size and color of your bait to the natural forage and water conditions. Crappies have excellent eyesight, so use light line and small hooks to avoid spooking them.

- Adjust your technique according to the season and weather. Crappies are sensitive to changes in temperature, light and pressure, so you need to adapt your approach accordingly. In early fall, when the water is still warm, you can fish for crappies in shallow bays and cuts with light tackle and fast-moving baits. As the water cools down, you need to fish deeper and slower with heavier tackle and more subtle baits. In late fall, when the water is cold, you need to fish very slowly and vertically with jigs or minnows in deep pockets and basins.

- Practice catch and release for crappies. Crappies are a valuable resource that need to be conserved and managed properly. To ensure a healthy crappie population, you should practice catch and release whenever possible. Use barbless hooks or pinch down the barbs on your hooks to minimize damage to the fish. Handle the fish gently and quickly, and release them back into the water as soon as possible. Avoid keeping large crappies, as they are important for spawning and genetic diversity.

Crappie fishing in Ontario can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience if you follow these techniques and tips. With some patience, skill and luck, you can catch some slab crappies that will make your day on the water memorable.

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Bluegill Fishing Tips

If you are looking for a fun and easy way to catch fish, bluegill fishing might be the perfect choice for you. Bluegills are small but feisty fish that can be found in many lakes, ponds and rivers across North America. They are also delicious to eat and can provide a great meal for your family or friends.

- Choose the right gear. You don't need fancy or expensive equipment to catch bluegills. A simple rod and reel combo with light line (4 to 6 pound test) and a small hook (size 6 to 10) will do the trick. You can also use a bobber or a float to suspend your bait above the bottom and detect bites more easily.

- Choose the right bait. Bluegills are not picky eaters and will bite on a variety of natural and artificial baits. Some of the best natural baits are worms, crickets, grasshoppers, maggots and corn kernels. You can also use small jigs, spinners, spoons or flies to imitate their natural prey. Experiment with different colors and sizes until you find what works best for you.

- Choose the right spot. Bluegills like to hang out in shallow water near cover such as weeds, rocks, logs or docks. They also prefer warmer water, so look for sunny areas or places where warm water flows into the lake or pond. You can use a fish finder or a depth finder to locate schools of bluegills in deeper water as well.

- Choose the right time. Bluegills are active throughout the day, but they tend to bite more during the early morning and late evening hours. They also feed more aggressively during certain seasons, such as spring when they spawn or fall when they prepare for winter. You can also check the local fishing reports or ask other anglers for advice on when and where to fish for bluegills.

- Have fun and be respectful. Bluegill fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy nature. It is also a great way to introduce kids or beginners to fishing, as they can catch a lot of fish in a short time and have fun doing it. However, you should always follow the rules and regulations of your fishing area, such as size and bag limits, license requirements and catch-and-release policies. You should also respect other anglers and the environment by not littering, not trespassing and not harming the fish or their habitat.

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Bass Fishing Tips

Bass fishing is one of the most popular and rewarding types of fishing in the world. Bass are strong, aggressive, and often elusive fish that can provide hours of fun and excitement for anglers of all skill levels. However, bass fishing can also be challenging and frustrating, especially if you don't know the right techniques, strategies, and equipment to use. In this blog post, we will share some of the best bass fishing tips that can help you catch more and bigger bass on your next fishing trip.

Tip #1: Know Your Bass

Bass are not all the same. There are different species of bass, such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass, and more. Each species has its own preferences, habits, and behaviors that affect how and where they feed, spawn, and hide. Knowing your bass can help you choose the right bait, lure, location, and time to fish for them.

For example, largemouth bass are usually found in shallow water with plenty of cover, such as weeds, rocks, logs, and docks. They are opportunistic feeders that will eat almost anything that moves, including fish, frogs, crayfish, insects, and even small birds and mammals. Largemouth bass are most active in the early morning and late evening hours when the water is cooler and dimmer.

Smallmouth bass are usually found in deeper water with clear and rocky bottoms. They are more selective feeders that prefer smaller prey items, such as minnows, shad, leeches, and worms. Smallmouth bass are most active in the spring and fall seasons when the water temperature is moderate and stable.

Tip #2: Choose Your Bait or Lure Wisely

Bass fishing is not a one-size-fits-all sport. Different baits and lures work better for different situations and conditions. You need to consider factors such as water clarity, depth, temperature, weather, season, vegetation, structure, current, and of course, the type and mood of the bass you are targeting.

Some of the most common and effective baits and lures for bass fishing include:

- Live bait: Live bait is hard to beat when it comes to attracting hungry bass. Live bait mimics the natural food sources of bass and triggers their predatory instincts. Some of the best live baits for bass fishing include minnows, shiners, shad, nightcrawlers, leeches, crayfish, frogs, and salamanders. You can use a simple hook-and-line setup or a bobber-and-sinker rig to present your live bait.

- Soft plastics: Soft plastics are artificial baits that resemble various creatures that bass love to eat. Soft plastics come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures that can be customized to suit different scenarios. Some of the most popular soft plastics for bass fishing include worms, grubs, tubes, craws, lizards,

flukes,

and swimbaits. You can use different types of hooks,

jigs,

weights,

and rigs to fish with soft plastics.

- Hard baits: Hard baits are artificial lures that create noise,

vibration,

and flash to attract bass. Hard baits come in a variety of designs,

styles,

and actions that can be matched to different water conditions and fish behaviors. Some of the most popular hard baits for bass fishing include crankbaits,

spinnerbaits,

topwater lures,

jerkbaits,

and spoons. You can use different types of rods,

reels,

lines,

and techniques to fish with hard baits.

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Best Bait For Freshwater

1.Bluegills and Sunfish:

These fish prefer small earthworms but they have a knack for stealing the bait without taking the hook. You can avoid this by threading a worm onto your hook from one end to the other, until it's completely covered. sunfish and bluegills also like to small crickets, grasshoppers, caterpillars and white grubs.

2.Crappies:

Crappies favor minnows that are 1.5 to 2.5 inches long. Bait your hook by running it through the back of your minnow at a spot that's just in front of the dorsal fin. You can also hook both lips, starting with the bottom one, the tail, or behind the head. If you don't have minnows, crappies will also eat earthworms, crickets and hellgrammites.

3.Yellow Perch:

Two-inch minnows ring the dinner bell for yellow perch. The best way to rig them is by running your hook through both lips, starting with the bottom one. An earthworm or two that's hooked through the side in several places can also be effective.

4.Bass:

Largemouth bass like minnows and small frogs but they also go for large night crawlers. Hook your minnow's back just in front of the dorsal fin or hook your frog's leg so that it's still able to swim. If you use a night crawler, hook its head and allow the body to dangle from the hook. Smallmouth bass will take the same bait but they prefer crayfish and hellgrammites. You should hook hellgrammites under the collar and crayfish in the tail. Don't drop them to the bottom or they'll find a hiding place and crawl under it.

5.Northern Pike:

Pike have razor sharp teeth but wire leaders can keep them from biting the line. Since wire leaders can also reduce the number of strikes, you'll have to decide when to use them. Active 4-inch minnows are the ticket for northern pike and you should hook them through the back, in front of the dorsal fin.

6.Pickerel:

Pickerel have the same diet as bass, so minnows and small frogs are ideal. Hook your minnows through the back and your frogs through the leg as you would if you were baiting a hook for bass.

7.Walleyes:

Walleyes prefer live minnows and fat night crawlers but you'll have to go deep to find them. Use a heavy sinker to get your bait on the bottom or just above it. Run your hook through a minnow's back near the front of its dorsal fin or hook a worm through its head with the body trailing behind.

8.Trout:

All three types of trout have a weakness for earthworms, grasshoppers and crickets. You can hook an earthworm by piercing the body in several places. Bait a grasshopper or cricket by putting the point of your hook between its eyes and threading it through the body and out the other end. Always cast upstream and let the bait come back to you.

9.Bullhead Catfish

Catfish love earthworms and night crawlers so they're the best bait to use. Hook a few earthworms through the side in several places or thread your hook from one end to the other with a large night crawler to completely cover the hook.

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Tips for Small-Lake Fishing

First, a quick physics lesson. We live in space and time – and since your space is limited in a small lake, it will help to optimize your time. What is the best time to catch fish? If you have to wake up early in the morning, even a little before dawn, or wait until evening, do so if those are your best chances to catch small fish. If you can fish on a calm lake, you’ll have the advantage of finding undisturbed fish.

Some small lakes have rules that dictate how long people can run their motors on a high level. You’ll want to avoid these hours, as smaller lakes will be easier to disturb. During these hours, make sure that you have something else to do so that you don’t get antsy waiting to fish. If you can, try to get your fishing done early as opposed to later, as this will free up your time as the evening hours roll around.

Next, be sure that you can optimize your bait. What does “optimizing your bait” mean? It’s just a fancy term that suggests you have the right bait for the right kind of fish. Ask some locals nearby what kind of fish you can expect to catch, and what the biggest kind of fish enjoy for bait. Then head to the bait shop. If you simply roll up to a lake with the same old bait, you can’t always be sure you’ll be bringing the right “stuff.” Sometimes, worms and leeches will work just fine, but it always helps to be sure, just in case.

After that, try to find out the behaviors of the fish you’re catching. If they flock to one area, be sure you put your boat in that area. Since there won’t be a lot of options in a small lake, it’s quite likely you can find out if there’s an ideal “spot” for fishing.

Remember that fishing requires preparation and patience – if you have neither, chances are you won’t come back with much. But if you have both, you can succeed, even on a small lake.

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Fishing the Pond for Catfish

Pond catfishing

is excellent. Most anglers don't even think about fishing for cats in ponds, because it means not being able to use a boat and other handy things. But, it's a shame, because you can catch nice 10-pounders in ponds all across the nation. There are a few things you have to think about when angling for catfish in ponds, but once you get them down, you're all set.

Pond Catfishing Tips

Ponds are small, and that means that those cats will hear every move you make. For that reason, you have to be especially quiet when you're pond catfishing. Walk as softly as you can, don't talk too much, and make sure your tacklebox and other things don't bang around too much. Once the cats get wind of you tromping around in their pond, they'll get away quick.

If you can find a good spot to drop your line that's close to the shore, you don't even have to get into the water. This is the best situation. Crouch right on the shore and get your line out as far as you can. This technique sometimes works wonders in ponds.

Same as with a river or lake, put your bait as close to the bottom as possible. In a pond, catfish will be even more likely to stay close to the deeper parts, so you have to get your bait way down there.

Finding catfish in a pond is not so different from finding them anywhere. Look first in the deepest parts of the pond, especially if there is a hole or dip in the ground underwater. They love to hang out way down in the depths, and this is just the same with ponds. If there is a dam or other obstruction, you will often find catfish down under it. At those depths the water is nice and cool, and that's what cats prefer. Around any kind of obstruction like a pile of rocks, a beaver dam, tree stumps, logs or humps you'll find catfish. Keep in mind that wherever it's dark and cool, that's where they are most likely to be.

If you have a creek that feeds water into the pond, that is a good place to look for catfish. Drop your line in the area of the pond right where that creek comes in. This will be a great place for catfish to feed, so they'll be looking there for something to eat.

Some ponds have algae and other vegetation floating around, and this is a good place to find catfish. We call this "cover," and you can almost always find catfish hiding out underneath cover.

A good technique to use when pondfishing for cats is to tightline. This is where you attach a tiny weight to your line, get it way down there, and keep the line extra tight so you can feel those bites.

The best bait to use is anything stinky. Catfish will always go after live bait much quicker than any other, and the more it smells the better. This is because they have a great sense of smell, and they use it to find most of their food. Earthworms, chicken guts, shad and other fish are all great ways to catch pond catfish.

Night time is the best time to find catfish in a pond, but you can find them any time of day, depending on the spot. Each pond is different. If you plan to fish that spot again, you might try angling at different times of day. Conduct a little experiment and see when the local cats like to come out and bite.

Finally, just because you're pond fishing doesn't mean you won't get a big fish. Pond catfish can be pretty big, so there still might be a fight. Never underestimate your enemy!

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How to Make Paper Fishing Floats

Things You’ll Need:

*Parchment paper

*Bamboo skewer

*PVA-based glue stick

*Fluorescent paint

*Paintbrush

8Clear varnish

Instructions :

Step 1 Cut a piece of parchment paper 1.5 inches wide by 12 inches long.

Step 2 Cut the paper in half diagonally, creating two triangles.

Step 3 Cover one side of one of the triangle-shaped pieces parchment paper with glue.

Step 4 Leave two inches at the top of the skewer for your tip (also called an antenna). Starting with the short flat side of your triangle, wrap the parchment paper around the skewer tightly so that the side with glue on it is touching the skewer. This creates the body of the float.

Step 5 Paint the two-inch tip with fluorescent paint and allow to dry.

Step 6 Cover the entire float with a coat of clear varnish and allow to dry. Repeat two times.

Tips & Warnings :
For a thicker float body, wrap the bamboo skewer with multiple triangles of parchment paper, one on top of the other.

The clear coats of varnish make the float waterproof. Be sure to apply all three coats, allowing the float to dry completely after each application.

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Carp Fishing Tips

1st Tip: A very simple, tip for catching carps of any size. Carp is a herbivorous fish, hence try silk weed. Make a set of 4-5 small hooks and one above the other so that it can hold the silk weed. Put one floater (indicator) with a gap of 1-2ft. and drop it at any medium distance. Keep enough line for the fight.

2nd Tip: Take 2 kg of powder (only from the husk, you can find this in any rice mill), add little flour (Wheat) so that it can get hold good on the hook. There are two way of catching with this.
1st.) take a triple hook, add lead just above the hook and add one good and long indicator. Put the ball on the lead...the moment the indicator moves you can give a hit.
Second.) is to take a small hook make a ball and throw it to the ground--wait till it pulls, normally you get the big ones with this method.

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Fishing Pole Set Up

What fishing gear you need for fishing pole set up (of course apart from the fishing rod) are fishing reel, test line, small bead, hook, sinkers and bobber stop.

Now, we come to the actual fishing pole set up. Start by attaching the chosen fishing reel to your fishing rod. Then making use of the reel seat, place the reel in it and tighten it. But ensure that you do not tighten it too much. Then let the fishing reel be spooled to your test line. In fact, you can even buy a reel, which has been already spooled with a test line. Next, thread the test line up in your fishing rods, through the holes in the rod. To ensure that you can attach rest of the equipments, keeping a lot of slack in your line once you thread it. Follow it up by slipping your bobber stop onto the test line. The most easily available and popular is the rubber stop. That looks like a grain of rice with a hole at each end which the test line is threaded through. This bobber stop is essential for keeping the bobber from sliding past the depth that you choose. Now, directly under the bobber stop, thread the small bead. This bead is crucial, that helps to keep the bobber stop from slipping down, in the situation of a fish being hooked and it pulls on the test line. Then slide your slip bobber up the test line. Next, through the eye of the hook thread the test line and then attach it to your test line. Follow it up by clipping 2 small split shot sinkers to the test line by using a pair of pliers. Then clip them around 10 inches above the the hook and an inch or 2 apart from the 2 split shot sinkers. And last but not the least, put the bait of your preference on the hook and there you are, all set for freshwater fishing. You can use a bee moth, cricket, earthworm or a minnow. But hey, you can go for other baits as well, you need not use just these.

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Ice Fishing: Great Winter Recreation

Eskimos do it. So do polar bears and seals. People in Norway, Sweden, New York and Minnesota do it too. What is it? It's ice fishing! Wherever there's a lake with ice thick enough to walk on, you will find people ice fishing. This charming sport has entertained fishermen in the 'off' season for ages. Putting on layers of warm, dry clothes, you can't help but feel a part of the long line of ice fishers before you.

So you think you can plod out onto the ice, drop a line and start hauling in the fish? Think again. There are many small details involved in ice fishing that the novice might not have thought about. There is so much more to this sport than waiting and trying to keep warm until 'the big one' tugs on your line! There are a few steps in the process, from the moment you make the hole in the ice to the moment you release the fish from your hook. Your goal is to have a successful day, not sit out there shivering in the wind because you have nothing better to do.

The first thing you should do when arriving at the lake is to make sure it is completely frozen over and thick enough to withstand the weight of you and your equipment. The next step is to begin drilling. The pros say that you should drill your holes first because the noise of the drill can frighten the fish temporarily. If you drill early the fish should have returned by the time you are ready to drop a line. It is smart to drill at least ten feet from shore. Begin by drilling a number of holes in a line and repeat, making several lines.

Once your holes are drilled and structure is set, it is time to start fishing! For beginners there are two different approaches to take when ice fishing, active or passive. When most think of ice fishing they imagine the passive method, where you set a few lines and relax, trying to stay warm while you take part in something else like cooking or listening to the game. On the other hand the active approach, as the name implies, is well, active. It is considered active because you fish by jigging by hand or with a wind-operated tip-up.

Using a set line is the most common way to ice fish. A set line will usually be rigged with a single small wire hook tied to the end and a split shot attached six to eighteen inches up the line. After hooking a minnow to the end the line is lowered to near the bottom or in the optimal strike zone. You may also use bear paws to add dropper lines to your main line. A dropper line makes it easy to fish at multiple depths with one line. Once the lines are set all that is left to do is sat back and enjoy the winter weather while you wait.

You've caught the fish, now what? When bringing in the line by hand, you have got to make sure the line doesn't go slack. As you are pulling with one hand, grasp the line with the other before letting your first hand go. You are going to also have to judge quickly how green the fish is before it reaches the surface. If it's too active, the fish will be harder to bring up through the hole, and you will run the risk of losing what you have worked so hard to catch. Once you do have the head through the hole, the fish is all yours. Now that you have the basics, what are you waiting for? Get out on the ice and start fishing!

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Important Ice Fishing Equipment

Many northern places enjoy the great fun of ice fishing. If you have lots of patience and the right ice fishing equipment this could be something for you. Without the right equipment ice fishing can be a very dangerous sport. Ice fishing was first performed in Norway and Canada, but today many other countries are enjoying the fun. The best place is actually Alaska since the ice is so thick. This is part of the dangerous when you head out on lakes you are not familiar with the ice could be weaker on some spots.

Back in the times ice fishing equipment was created by a wooden pole and a long fishing line with hook and bait. Pretty much like a regular fishing rod, without the reel. Add a chair to sit on and they were ready to get at it.

The thing about ice fishing is that you need to stay active. The bait should seem alive and lure the fish to bite. You have to make sure the hole in the ice is not starting to freeze again and you have to make sure it is big enough for your catch. Many ice fishers have ended up loosing their fish since the hole was too small. Having a good ice saw or an ice drill is an essential part of your ice fishing equipment.

Another good equipment to have on the ice is "ice pikes" on your sleeves. These can save your life if you are unlucky and falling into the water. Since the ice is so slippery and the water is so cold it is almost impossible to get up if you fall through the ice. With these pikes you can pull yourself up a lot easier and they are a cheap life insurance. Other ice fishing equipment that could be useful is a small ice fishing rod. It is small because it gives you shorter time to react when you feel the bite and you have more control over the lure. The lure should be a small shiny lure often baited with some live worm or similar.

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Top Reasons the Modern Ice Fishing House is Great

Ice fishing is a winter sport that is gaining popularity seemingly at breakneck pace. Given the advances in this industry over the past decade, it is no wonder this is taking place. Today is equipment is lightweight, portable, and extremely refined for the ice fishing game. Gone are the days of freezing on the ice catching no fish. This is especially true with the modern ice fishing house. If you have a modem and ice fishing house lately, you're in for a world of change.

Types of ice fishing houses

Old-school ice fishermen are very knowledgeable about the large, heavy, bulky, and leaky icehouse of yesteryear. Thankfully in its place are several different options. If you are one that likes to sit in one spot in a very comfortable ice house, not only do you have the standard ice houses, there are also a great new invention called the wheelhouse. Simply attach them to your truck hitch and move them from spot to spot. If you're more of a run and gun type ice fishermen, a portable ice fishing shelter is the ticket. If houses are lightweight, extremely portable, and come with a canvas sheath that while very thin retains heat extremely well.

How to use an ice fishing house to your advantage

One of my favorite ways to use my ice fishing house to catch more fish than my competition is to use it as a base camp. I will finish in the house from time to time, mostly to warm up, but also if the fish are biting. Invariably, the fishing will slow down and I will take a track from the icehouse and punch holes all around it. This allows me to follow the fish while still remaining warm. The key being I can fish for a longer period of time than I otherwise would be able to. This works best when you're icehouse is on a known piece of fish producing structure.

Another great method, is to simply use a portable icehouse in a run and gun fashion. Before you get started fishing, punch about 30 to 50 holes in a large area. Go up and down depths as well as in and out of weeds. At this point bring your portable house to a hole and start fishing. As soon as the bite calms down move to the next hole. Keep doing this until you're done fishing for the day.

As can be seen there are many ways to use an ice fishing house to catch more fish winter. By using your fish house to the best ability you are guaranteed to catch more and bigger fish. Is it tips above to get the most out of your ice fishing house.

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How to Raise Fishing Worms

1.Purchase about 100 Red Wigglers worms for breeder stock. These are top feeders and won't burrow in the soil like garden worms.

2.Find a watertight container - an old bathtub, a metal drum cut in half or a plastic storage container.

3.Fill the watertight container with soil (4 to 8 inches deep), depending on the container's size.

4.Mix in an inch or so of organic matter, such as leaves or rotten straw.

5.Mix 1 lb. cornmeal and 1/2 lb. vegetable shortening into the top 2 to 3 inches of soil.

6.Add worms.

7.Cover the tub with damp burlap or board planks.

8.Add another dose of the cornmeal/shortening mixture in one month and then every two weeks. Add about 1 qt. of water while feeding.

9.Keep the worm bed cool and moist in the summer; it's best to place it in the shade

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Ice Fishing - Catching Fish in Winter.

Ice fishing is a great way to fill the freezer with filets during the cold winter. Ice fishing can be done with a minimum of tools and gear or can be done with all the latest in ice fishing technology.

You can use an axe to cut the hole or one of the many hole-cutting tools and augers on the market. You can stand in the open air or use any variety of protective structures, some are literal cabins with many comforts like heaters and cooking facilities.

First and foremost, make sure the ice is safe before venturing out. Local agencies generally monitor the thickness of the ice and announce when it is safe. If in doubt, stay off the ice. Wear plenty of warm clothes and shoes that will not slip on the ice.

Where to Fish

Like all other styles of fishing, the key is locating the fish. Once located they can be quite easy to catch. Their food supply is scarce so your offerings can look quite appealing to a hungry fish.

Seek out ice fishing reports for the area you intend to fish. Prior years reports are often archived on websites and local newspaper archives. Prior years reports can give you a good idea when the good fishing should start. It's a good idea to keep your own log tracking dates of the activity.

Once you arrive at your chosen lake, the next step is to determine exactly where to fish. If you know the lake well, you are aware of places that hold fish during the warmer months. Those fish will move to deeper water nearby their summer hang outs. If you don't know the lake, find a good map. Locate deeper water near shallow feeding areas. Often, congregations of ice fisherman tell you everything you need to know. Go around and ask questions about the bait or lures and the depth fish are being caught. Try to duplicate what the other successful anglers are doing. Set up close to the other fisherman yet far enough to respect their space.

During these ice-over conditions all fish look for the warmest water they can find. That's usually where you find the fish and the food sources.

Once you locate a starting area, bore a small hole in the ice, big enough to test through. Be aware of the water depth by measuring the amount of line it takes to reach bottom. Experiment with bait depth. Start by fishing close to the bottom, then working your way up in 3 or 4 foot increments. Once you find the best depth, work it until the fish move or change their activities. If you are not getting action, move to a new test spot.

Once you locate a productive spot, set up your headquarters and try boring additional holes close by.

Each species of fish has it's own preferred depth and cover. Different baits, lures, techniques and depths vary for each species.

Crappie

Crappie are a schooling fish and will generally be found in 15 to 40 feet of water. You can catch crappie on small jigs and tiny spoons, but there's nothing like a small minnow to tempt a hungry crappie. Minnows in the one to two inch length tend to work the best. On 4 or 6 pound line, use one or more #8 hooks and enough weight to get to the bottom. Don't overdo the weights as it limits the movement of the minnow. Add a bobber to keep the bait at a preferred depth. The bobber should be just big enough to stay afloat so it can be pulled under easily. If the bobber is too big the fish will drop the bait and run when they feel the resistance. A short, flexible ice-fishing pole is ideal for crappies.

Crappie schools tend to migrate around the lake so you may find them one day and they are gone the next. Be prepared to move if the action is slow.

Sunfish

Bluegills and other sunfish tend to run in much smaller schools than crappie and tend to stay in a given area longer. They seldom move unless the food supply is depleted in the area. Use a #10 hook on 4lb line on a short, flexible ice-fishing pole. Small minnows, worms, grubs and salmon eggs all work well for sunfish. Look for these sunfish in 10 to 25 feet of water.

Perch

Perch, especially jumbo perch make a tasty fish fry. Like crappies they run in schools and tend to migrate around the lake. The good news is that when you find them, they are relatively easy to catch. The bad news is that they can often be difficult to find. Early in the season look for them on the flats. Later in the season they tend to migrate along channels and move deeper. Expect to find perch in 5 to 50 feet of water with 20 to 25 feet the most common. They typically spend most of their time on the bottom and cover is always a bonus when looking for perch.

Spoons and jigs work well for perch and should be worked very close to the bottom. Vary jigging techniques until you find one they like. Use a medium flex ice-fishing rod.

Trout

Trout tend to run deeper than most fish for ice fishing. Be prepared to fish from 20 to 100 feet deep, sometimes deeper for big lake trout. Heavy line is a must depending on the size fish you are likely to catch. Use up to 30 pound line for deep lake trout. The deeper fish tend to be more active during the day and shallower trout are more active early in the day and again late in the day.

Select an ice-fishing rod appropriate for the size trout you expect to catch. Use dead smelt, suckers and ciscoes or live minnows and fish near the bottom.

Walleye

Walleyes and sauger can be caught by jigging. Jigs, spoons and live minnows work well. Experiment with jigging action until you find the right amount of movement for today. It will probably require a different action tomorrow. Use 6 or 8 pound line with a No. 6 hook and bobber. Look for likely holding areas nearby summer, shallow feeding areas. Walleye can be found from 5 feet deep to more than 50 feet, sometimes suspended but generally near the bottom. Fishing is likely to be better early in the day and again late in the day.

Use tackle slightly heavier than that used for crappie or perch.

Northern Pike

These northern pike are predators. They come in all sizes and will take virtually any type of bait you offer. So use heavy line and steel leaders. Their sharp teeth will cut through fishing line with ease. You can find them very near the surface or into the deeper feeding and holding areas.

Tip-ups with 30 to 45 pound line with No. 1 treble hooks baited with suckers, chubs, shad or smelt work well for these big boys. For jigging with jigs, spoons or bait, use a heavier, stiffer ice-fishing rod.

Have fun and stay warm

Come prepared to stay warm. If you get cold and begin to feel ill, it's time to go somewhere and get warm. The cold is very hard on your body. It's always a good idea to fish with a buddy and watch out for one another.

When you leave, leave the area as clean and natural as when you arrived.

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Major Factors Effecting Lake Fishing

Seasons

Time of year is the very first thing to consider when approaching any body of water. In winter the water turns cold, the fishes' metabolism slows way down and they tend to get lethargic. This cold water slows everything down. The fish move less and tend to stay in a comfortable place with reasonable water temperatures and decent oxygen content. If food is nearby or migrates through the area, that's a plus. During winter, fish do not feed as often and the feeding spree is likely to be for a shorter period of time. They will seek out food that is easy to catch.

Spring is the beginning of good times for fish and fisherman. The shallows begin to warm and thoughts of spawn control most activities for fish. Before the spawn, both males and females begin to feed to build up stamina. Once the spawn starts, fish are active defending the nest. Once the female lays her eggs, she becomes wary and leaves for the solitude of a deeper holding spot. Them most males defend the eggs and fry for a short time, then slip back into deeper water to recuperate themselves. After the resting period of a few days to a couple of weeks, both will be back on the prowl for food in the shallows. Even their own fry.

Summer brings warmer waters. Plankton and algae growth expands and the bait fish get active. This in turn sparks heavier feeding by the predator fish. Fish may feed in the shallows as well as at intermediate depths, dependent on the food source. When not feeding the fish typically move to deeper, cooler water to rest.

The Fall season begins when the cool nights start to drop water temperatures. The shallows cool off faster than the deep water so for a while in Fall the fish may prefer the deep water, to the shallows. Often, the lake will "turn over"; the warmer water comes to the surface as the colder surface waters plunge to the deep. As a result, oxygen levels, ph and temperatures are all out of balance. So are the fish. Stay home for a couple of weeks when this happens. If the weather stays nice for a few weeks after, the fish will feed heavily before moving into winter patterns.

Weather

As a rule, what the weather has been doing for the last 24 hours is more important than what is doing at the time you arrive at the lake. If the wind has been blowing it's important to know which direction. Heavy concentration of plankton collect along the banks where the wind is blowing into the bank. This attracts the bait which excites the predator fish. High concentrations of oxygen in the water is a result of the waves crashing into the shore. This added oxygen also makes the fish more active.

Knowing the barometric pressure trend can give you an insight to how active the fish might be. A falling barometer is the fisherman's best friend. The fish are generally the most active while the pressure is falling. If the pressure stays low the fish will eventually become lethargic and less active. On a rising pressure the fish are a bit more active than normal. During periods of high pressure you can expect the fish to become quite inactive, holding tight to cover in deeper water.

When it's cloudy, fish tend to get a bit more aggressive than normal, especially in shallow water. Rain can improve fishing or turn it off depending on the associated barometric pressure. Bright sunshine will cause the fish to move into shady areas when they are shallow but has little impact when they are deep. Hot and cold weather only have an accumulative effect. A cold rainy day during an otherwise warm season has little or no effect on the fish.

Food Sources

Be aware of the primary food source of the fish. The more you know about the bait, the more likely you are to properly imitate the food source. Knowing what time of year the crawfish have hard red shells versus soft green shells may help you choose lures and colors for the day. Knowing what time the shad die off due to quickly cooling water could also give you direction for lures, colors and presentation. Be aware of lizards, frogs and other food sources along the banks of the lake.

Water Levels

No matter what the lake level, the fish will adapt. But it is important to know if the level is rising, falling or remaining constant. As a general rule, fish move out and down when the lake level is falling. Look for fish on outside points during these conditions. Conversely, they move up and in when the water is rising. Look for them back inside coves and newly flooded shallows when levels are rising.

Local Knowledge

Check the fishing reports ahead of time and watch for trends. Visit the local bait and tackle store and ask questions. Spend some time at the boat ramp to ask anglers what they caught, where and how. Local fishing clubs might be willing to share knowledge to help you enjoy their favorite lake.

Lunar Phases

There is sufficient proof to acknowledge better feeding times during the day which seem to coincide to phases of the moon. From my own experience, I keep it simple. Major feeds tend to happen when the moon is directly overhead and when it is directly under you (180°). Minor feeds tend to happen when the moon is on the horizon, east or west. All you can do with this information is to be on a prime spot during major and minor feeds.

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How To Fish A New Lake

Knowledge

The best way to approach a new fishery is to learn as much as you can before you leave home. Look for articles, fishing reports and fishing tournament results at that lake. The internet is loaded with information for those willing to track it down.

Fishing Maps

Get a good fishing map, the more detail the better. Get a lay of the land to determine where the deep channels are. Locate large flat, shallow areas. Identify the major coves or arms of the lake, ones with a significant river channel or creek bed.

Plan of Attack

If the lake is too big to cover in a day you can focus your efforts on a small sector in order to define what the fish are doing. Select a major cove define a pattern of fish location for the day. This cove will be a miniature version of the lake. The creek bed in the back of the cove is similar to the major riverbed feeding the back end of the lake. The back of the cove is shallow like the river end of the reservoir. The water gets deeper as you move out to the main body of the lake just like the lake does as you move toward the dam.

Cover all your options. By fishing various stations of the cove you can determine where the fish are holding. At each station, fish deep, then medium depths and then shallow. Use lures you can cover a lot of water quickly.

Begin fishing this cove by starting on the outside corner where it intersects the main body of the lake. Once you've covered the various depths, move inside the cove to the first irregularity - a small point, brush or rock piles. Fish all depths and move inside farther to about half way back in the cove. Move again to three-fourths of the way to the back. At this point you are probably out of deep water and are limited to shallows. Zig-zag your way across the back of the cove making certain you are fishing all the way up in the shallowest water in the back of the cove. Now work your way back out the outer side of the cove in the reverse order to which you came into the cove.

Once you have completed this process you should be able to identify the best area of the cove on which to concentrate. The vast majority of the time you will find fish concentrated in one of three general sections of a cove: outside, middle or the back of the cove. Within this section they may move up and down throughout the day. Pay careful attention when you get a strike or catch a fish as to why the fish was there. Learn as much as you can on this quick trip through the cove about where the fish are positioned, and around what type of cover.

Armed with this knowledge you can now productively plan your day. You should be able to "pattern fish" the rest of the day, concentrating on the most productive section of each cove on the reservoir.

Also remember that the cove is a mini-version of the lake. If you found fish in the back of the coves they will probably be concentrated in the river end of the lake, in shallow water. If you found fish half-way back in the cove, concentrate on the middle section of the lake. Try to duplicate the type of shoreline and cover where you caught fish. Adjust your depth throughout the day to cover fish which are moving up and down changing depth throughout the course of the day.

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