| Careful planning and preparation is all it takes to | | | | are going to use. Q-tips are best for taking out |
| make ice fishing the greatest time of your life or | | | | the nicks in every nook and cranny of your ice |
| the worst. Easy? Take a look at the following tips | | | | rod. Non-freezing oil for lubing fishing reels is |
| and see how prepared you are to catch those | | | | advisable. |
| fish! | | | | Heat up |
| Buy early | | | | Do not forget to bring those heaters and pounds |
| Make a list of the supplies you used last season | | | | and pounds of propane cylinders. One cannot fish |
| and replenish them early. Make sure you get all | | | | comfortably if he or she is as cold as the fish |
| those Glo-Buster Bluelights or Lindy Tazers. All | | | | under the ice. Ice fishing should be fun and feel |
| you need to remember is four words: wise up, | | | | comfy too. |
| stock up. | | | | House up |
| Check the hole on the ice floor | | | | The ice is harsh and cold but it doesn't mean you |
| Simply put, make sure the hole is clean. Chips or | | | | have to feel that too. Ice tents should be cleaned |
| chunks of ice could cause entanglements in one's | | | | out as well by putting over a light coat of lubricant |
| fishing line and could make you catch fish or | | | | at the joints. If there is any wear or tear, it is |
| literally break your chances of getting any, as | | | | best to contact the manufacturer in order for |
| these could sever the line therefore losing your | | | | them to send out the appropriate repair kit, as |
| chance of getting that trophy of a lifetime bluegill. | | | | deemed necessary. |
| Remember to keep the hole clear of any barrier. | | | | Gear Up |
| Fish more, get the big four | | | | Better be safe than sorry, make sure you get a |
| The bait you simply cannot go on without: wax | | | | set of lifeguard spikes as well as a safety rope. |
| worms, minnows, assorted PowerBait, maggots. | | | | Also, to feel less of the cold and at the same |
| It is best to keep these bait separated and as | | | | time be cool, pick up a fishing coat from the |
| much as possible alive using coolers such as a | | | | Carhartt Extremes Arctic Jacket. Avoid frost bits |
| small Coleman. | | | | on your toes and feet, the best shoes are the |
| Clean `em all up | | | | Irish Setters Versa Trax to keep you warm all |
| Inspect and clean the rods and fishing reels you | | | | over. |