Well it's that time of the year when many folks huddle up next to a warm wood stove, crank the heaters, wrap up in a blanket, and curse the cold weather. On the other hand, it's also that time of year when people like myself, who love all the seasons and what they have to offer, get very excited. Now I'm not saying I truly enjoy feeling like a human popsicle or losing the feeling in my fingertips throughout the day, but I do whole heartidly enjoy pulling fish through a hole in the ice. A little bit of shivering and numbness is a small price to pay for the scenic beauty, and the tasty meal that usually follows a good day of ice fishing. North Idaho has numerous lakes that freeze over, and this year we've had some nice cold streaks that have locked in many of the smaller lakes providing a solid platform to fish on. Ice fishing is a relatively inexpensive pastime to get involved in. All you need is a fishing license, a hand powered ice auger, a couple ice fishing poles, some ice fishing jigs, some bait, an ice scoop, some warm clothes, a chair or bucket, and a sled to pull all of your gear. Now these things aren't truly necessary for the first timer as you can just take a wooden dowel or stick and find a hole that has been recently fished and re-open it. Mind you I said recently fished. You can also use a regular fishing pole though it will set you back quite a ways from the hole and can be cumbersome. Last you can just carry your gear if you don't want to purchase a sled. I however think it's a bit more enjoyable if you just buy a few basics and set yourself up for a better experience. Also, it is wise to let somebody know where you're planning on fishing, and you should absolutely do some research on ice safety and basic ice fishing techniques before you head out. Any local sporting goods store or tackle shop will be more than happy to set you up with the needed gear and let you know where the fishing has been best. It's also very important that you check out the regulations regarding ice fishing to avoid any problems with your local Fish and Game. Don't be afraid to stop into the local office and ask them any questions you may have. They're there to help, and they'll be the best resource on where to go. http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/fish/ Another great way to find out more about ice fishing is visit the lake and talk to somebody that's already fishing. Most sportsman are friendly folks and are happy to share some tips and will even direct you to a spot on the lake that might produce some fish. A couple important things to remember about ice fishing. While it is a relatively safe method of fishing a little common sense will go a long way in ensuring it stays that way for you and your family. Simply put--There's no fish in this world worth losing your life over. As with any other sport or hobby it is your responsibility to be prepared, and to know what safety precautions should be followed. Here's a great link to check out regarding ice fishing and ice safety-- http://www.nodakoutdoors.com/ice_fishing_safety.php Here also is a great video to watch before heading out. http://www.yukonman.com/cold_water.asp The first time out on the ice is always an adventure and can be a bit unnerving if you've never done it before. Once you've done it a few times you'll become a bit more comfortable and not so weary. Just remember being complacent is never a good idea and you should always expect the best but be prepared for the worst. You should note that even in the dead of winter with 12" of ice on the lake you may hear some popping or cracking. This is normal and often times there is a top layer of ice that has been thawed and refrozen and it too might make some cracking noises. If there are people all over the lake then your probably good to go as long as you're prepared and aware that there is really no such thing as 100% safe ice--then again tell me one activity that is 100% safe. If it's been 40 degrees for the last week and there's nobody on the ice you may want to reconsider your outing and find something else to do. Better safe than sorry. So my fellow Idaho residents. If you've been sitting around the house this winter and the kids are saying "I'm bored" and your starting to feel the "cabin fever" setting in then you should definitely give ice fishing a try. If you live in the north land and it's been below freezing for a stretch, then you can mark my words that somebody is out there catching fish and truly enjoying what life in the north country has to offer. Good luck and don't forget the snacks, the hot cocoa or coffee, a bucket to put your fish in, and a camera to capture the memories. Be safe and good fishing! 
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