When winter returns and the lakes are frozen, Michigan Fisherman change over to hard water fishing, more commonly known as ice fishing. Ice fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family with a minimal investment in gear and equipment.

The fishing gear and equipment needed to get started is an Ice Fishing Rod & Reel, Ice Fishing jigs and lures, Ice Auger, Ice Scooper, folding camping chairs, bucket and an Ice Fishing Shelter. All of these items are easily found in outdoor stores and web sites such as Bass Pro Shops, Gander Mountain or Cabalas. Approximate costs for these items are as follows: ice fishing rod and reel combo ($27), Ice fishing lures and jigs ($1.00 -$10 each), hand Ice Auger($90), Ice Scooper ($8), Folding Camping Chairs ($18 if you do not already have any), Bucket (use any one in the house or garage or for $28 purchase an Ice Fishing Bucket with a top thatvalso functions as a seat), and Ice Fishing Shelter ($200 and up). If you do not already have a good set of boots, Winter Jacket, Gloves and hat, you will need them.

In Michigan we are fortunate to have many lakes to choose from for Ice Fishing. One of the most popular lakes is Lake St Clair. There are several reasons for this. One of the main reasons is easy public access through the Michigan DNR Sites and Metro Parks (i.e. Metro Beach). Aside from having easy access, Lake St. Clair is known as one of the best overall freshwater fisheries in North America. Some bait shops in the area such as Anglers Point, also offer Ice Shelter Rental and/or ice taxi service onto the ice.

Some of the best ways to find out what baits and lures to use is to ask a fellow ice fisherman who has a full bucket or the local bait shop. Always keep in mind that the baits, lures and colors will vary each day depending on water clarity and the type of fish you are going after. Other important keys to successfully locating and landing fish are the ability to identify fish habitats and how to fish them. At Michigan Boating we have videos for you to watch that are from accomplished ice fisherman that offer ice fishing tips that you can apply to improve your success. Check out a sample of the ice fishing videos below on the three types of ice fishing knots and how to tie them and late season ice fishing tips for Perch and Blue Gill.