Ice fishing is a Canadian winter pastime that anyone can enjoy. All you need is some basic gear, and you can fish at all your favourite spots — or even discover some new ones!

A great way to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors over the winter months is to take up ice fishing. It’s a fun activity that’s easier to get into than you might think. Once you have some basic gear and know-how, you can head out on the ice and get started. Here’s a guide to your basic ice fishing essentials.

A Note on Ice Thickness

Safety should be your number one priority when ice fishing. You should never walk out onto ice unless it is at least 4 inches (10.16 cm) thick. Note that ice thickness can also vary on the same body of water, so make sure you check as you move from place to place. Ice needs to be even thicker to safely support snowmobiles and ATVs (10 inches or 25.4 cm), cars (12 inches or 30.48 cm), or trucks (14 inches or 35.56 cm).

Your Essential Ice Fishing Gear

Ice fishing requires some specialized gear, but it’s nothing you can’t pick up from your go-to outdoor store. Make sure you have these essentials before stepping out on the ice.

Spud Bar
A spud bar is a metal bar with one pointed end that you can use to test ice thickness or break up ice forming over a drilled hole.

Ice Auger
To drill your fishing holes, you’re going to need an ice auger. A manual auger is much more affordable, but a gas auger is easier to use and will allow you to drill more holes.

Ice Scoop
An ice scoop will make it quick and easy to remove pieces of ice from your newly drilled hole. It can also help you break up ice if the hole refreezes.

Rod and Reel
Ice fishing rods are considerably shorter than regular rods, usually measuring between 28″ and 36″. While you can use a regular rod to ice fish, the length generally makes it harder to manoeuvre and detect a bite. Ice rods are usually paired with spinning reels, which are also smaller in size.

Bait
Anglers use a combination of live bait, dead bait, and lures for ice fishing, depending on their preferences. Natural baits include minnows, mealworms, night crawlers, and salmon eggs. Ice fishing lures are a little different than lures used in the warm season because they are designed for a vertical presentation.

Warm Clothing
Ice fishing wouldn’t be ice fishing without freezing temperatures. Make sure you wear warm clothing and dress in layers so that you can take them on and off as needed. You won’t regret investing in a good pair of thermal underwear!

Bucket
It’s always handy to have a bucket around when fishing. You can use it to transport your tackle and even to sit on!

Sled
While not essential, a sled is also nice to have for pulling all of your gear out on the ice. You will expend far less energy simply sliding it over the slick surface.

Ice Fishing Shelter
Finally, an ice shelter will ensure you stay warm and safe in freezing temperatures, especially if you plan to stay out after the sun goes down.

There’s no need to stay cooped up over the winter. Ice fishing offers a fantastic chance to get outside and enjoy the crisp fresh air. With the right gear, you can have a great time out on the ice and hopefully snag a few bites!