The temperature has dropped well below freezing. The wind is blowing.
The local lakes are topped with at least four inches of ice. It is the type of day most of us would choose to spend curled up on the couch, with a fire in the fireplace, sipping on a warm hot chocolate and reading a good book. But, to an ice fisherman, it is a perfect day to spend on the lake waiting for the big one to bite.
Early in the morning, before the sun has even appeared, fishermen scurry out onto the frozen lake with their sleds loaded with equipment to find the spot to drill their fishing hole. Armed with an ice auger, they drill the hole and drop their lines. The determined fishermen sit on an overturned bucket, with the wind at their back, and fish. Others bring a shanty, a small hut to protect them from the cold and wind, which they place over their fishing hole. A propane heater keeps the shanty and the fisherman warm.
The poles used to fish may vary from a short 16-inch pole to one 4.5 feet in length. Many use more than one pole at a time. Just like summertime fishing, both live bait and lures may be used.
According to Dave Koehl, an avid fisherman and owner of Koehl’s Bait and Tackle in McHenry, “Fishing is best in the early morning or just before sunset. That is when they bite the most.”
As with all outdoor winter activities, maintaining warmth is important when out on the lake. Because you are standing on ice, insulated boots are a must. Warm, layered clothing that wicks moisture away from the skin and a windproof outer layer help keep the fisherman warm and dry. Don’t forget a hat and warm gloves. Many carry instant hand and foot warmers that can be placed inside gloves and boots to retain heat.
For Bill Moerschbacher, who grew up on McCullom Lake and began ice fishing at an early age, it is a way to get out of the house and enjoy the crisp winter air. He describes ice fishing as a sport that can be enjoyed alone or with the camaraderie of friends.
“Ice fishing can be dangerous,” he warns. “You need to be certain there is at least 3 to 4 inches of ice. You need to know your lake so you avoid areas where springs feed in and make the ice soft.”
Fish caught in the winter taste better than those caught in the summer. Both Dave and Bill agree that it is due to less turbidity of the water and the water’s cold temperature. The cold temperature gives the fish a firmer texture. The day is not complete until you have grilled the fish that you have caught.
“Sometimes we grill the fish right out on the ice,” said Bill, adding that panfish, croppies, and blue gill are among his favorite catches. “If the catch is large enough, they become the main course for an evening party.”
So, don’t think of fishing as only a summer sport. Those tasty winter fish are waiting for you.
