Ice Fishing Basics and Safety
Ice fishing opens up water you can't easily reach by boat, and some of the best perch, walleye and panfish action of the year. Safety comes first.
Ice thickness
A common guideline is at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice for walking, 5 to 7 inches for a snowmobile or ATV, and 8 to 12 inches or more for a small car. Ice is never uniform. Check it often with a spud bar or auger, and stay off gray, slushy or cracked ice and areas near moving water.
Safety gear
- Ice picks worn around your neck.
- A throw rope and a flotation jacket or suit.
- A buddy, and someone at home who knows where you are.
Basic setup
A hand or power auger, a short rod with light line, small jigs tipped with waxworms or minnow heads, and a flasher or fish finder. Tip-ups are great for pike and walleye while you jig nearby.
Check the local rules
States set their own rules on how many lines you can use and on shelters left on the ice. Check the regulations link on each lake page before you go.