Those who just can't wait until spring to hit their local pond, lake or stream, and who live in a climate temperatures cold enough to freeze these types of water, should give ice fishing a try at least once.

Similar to the regular type of fishing one does in warmer conditions, ice fishing involves using lines and hooks to catch fish. The main difference between the two is that ice fishing generally takes place on a frozen surface, as opposed to a boat or a dock, and therefore an opening to access the water below must be available.

Ice fishing is popular in colder countries such as Canada, Sweden, Finland and Norway, as well as in certain states within the U.s. including Alaska, Minnesota, Michigan, New England and New York.

Equipment
Ice fishing is one of those activities that requires some specific equipment specially designed for the sport.

Ice shanty - A small shelter that keeps the cold and wind at bay. They usually accommodate two individuals and are six feet by six feet in size

Ice auger or chisel - Both are used to cut a hole in the ice, however the chisel is generally used on thinner ice early in the season.

Skimmer - As new ice begins to form, this is used to remove it and also to remove slush created from cutting the hole.

Gaff hook - This large, heavy book is used to assist in pulling slippery fish through the hole in the ice.

Tackle Box - A good tackle box containing hooks, rods and lures, among other items, will help prepare you for almost any type of fish to come your way.

Heater or stove - It can get pretty cold out there on the ice and having a source of heat, especially for the hands, is recommended.

Compass - It may not seem that large from shore, but once in the middle of a big lake, it's easy to become disoriented and lose a sense of direction. This is even worse if a winter storm should hit, so a compass to help keep pointed in the right direction (figuratively and literally) is recommended.

Safety First
Ice should be four inches in thickness at the bare minimum before would-be fishermen venture onto it. If using a snowmobile as transportation, follow the trails that have already been created and always keep an eye out for water or pre-existing holes. A general rule-of-thumb followed by ice fishers is, ""Thick and blue, tried and true. Thin and crispy, way too risky."

Be sure to familiarize yourself with any guidelines or regulations for the area you will be fishing, as well as check conditions ahead of time to ensure no warning advisories have been issued.

Keep it Green
If you don't plan to keep fish or if you accidentally catch a prohibited fish for the area you are fishing in, practice the "catch and release" method . This will prevent the fish population from depleting unnecessarily. Lakes require larger fish to help keep the population balanced, as these fish have typically managed to survive the early years when many die, so even if you catch a real prize, take you picture with it, then consider letting it return home.

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