WINSTON WEEKLY©^[1]

January 12, 2025

Vol. 3, No. 2

BENEATH THE ICE

Given the continued cold, I am staying with a “winter theme” this month. This week, the focus is on ice fishing. It is not for the faint of heart, especially when friends past often questioned such endeavors by exclaiming, “Are you nuts!?” Forty-plus years later, I now understand the question should have given me pause. But growing up on a Wisconsin farm with more than its share of frigid temperatures, ice fishing was a welcome break from chipping out stock tanks. Back then, there were no stock tank heaters nor many of the other modern conveniences enjoyed today.

There was something magical about breaking a hole in the ice and pulling out a fish. Of course, it is not so simple. It takes significant preparation, starting with warm clothing and boots. Although we often fished on ponds that were somewhat protected from the elements, no amount of protection could keep temperatures in the single digits at bay. There is always a concern that the ice is not solid enough to support one’s body, even as a child. But ice at least a few inches thick is typically safe, if you avoid breaking through it near a stream and multiple vehicles are not parked nearby. Breaking through three-plus inches of ice is a challenge, but better to have that challenge than having to retrieve someone from the frigid waters! Regardless of how experienced one may be at ice fishing, never venture out alone and always ensure you have the necessary rope and other rescue equipment nearby.

If exploring a larger body of water or one unfamiliar to you, check with as many locals as possible for safety and other tips. Bait shops are a good place to start. Although night fishing has its share of adventures, it should be avoided and never undertaken with a flashlight in hand. A clip-on light is a better option, freeing up your hands to navigate the bait and pole and retrieve safety gear if needed.

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITY

For anyone interested in learning almost everything about ice fishing, check out Tim Allard’s 2010 book, Ice Fishing The Ultimate Guide. Even if his book is not of interest, Allard and others have a bounty of fishing and outdoor tips for adults and children at www.wired2fish.com. Happy fishing and learning!

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[1] A Sunday newsletter and blog by Alysen Bayles to be shared with the appropriate attribute.