Hello to One and All,
This week I want to share a simple way to rig your ice fishing outfits. I like to use short rods and reels but I also use it on my tip up setups.
Two of my main ice fishing locations allow the use of live minnows and I take advantage of those opportunities. I use a 3 way swivel tied to the main line, the drop weight on one eye and a hook on the other eye making sure the line to the weight is slightly longer than the line to the hook. Fishing for perch with small minnows I like to use a # 8 or #6 Aberdeen hooks. Larger minnows need a larger hook gap. I like to use the lightest wire hook I can which allows the minnow to struggle more, sending out “injured” vibrations calling in the fish. Another detail is to hook the minnow lightly just behind it’s dorsal fin. The line is then dropped to the bottom which positions the bait right where the fish are most active.
Be cautious this time of year, with the sun higher in the sky, the ice is subject to it’s warming rays. Use your head and be safe, separate when walking on the ice, wear a life jacket, have a safety rope and if it doesn’t look safe… there’s always another day!
Pat Slater
Pro Staff Mack’s Lure & Ranger Boats
National Professional Angler Association #757
DON’T LET YER MEAT LOAF!!! by Montana Grant
By angelamontana
FWP News: Darting for Research (Bighorn Sheep)
Don’t mess with the bull…
The perfect footage
“Bird Day” celebration scheduled for May 4 at Spring Meadow State Park
By Moosetrack Megan
Seasonal Roads Opening Today on Seeley Lake Ranger District
A long trip home: One steelhead’s journey to the Potlatch River
2024 Spring Mack Days-Week 6 Update
FWP News: FWP announces Mule Deer Citizen Advisory Committee
FWP News: Walleye Spawn Update III, April 19th, 2024
Helena Area Reservoirs Fishing Report 4.22.24
GOPHER GUTS!!! by Montana Grant
PANSY POWER!!! by Montana Grant
YOU MAY BE A CAVEMAN!!! By Montana Grant
Montana Fishing Reports for 4/20/24
By Kamp Cook
Spring Weather Roulette – Listen to last Weeks Show 4/20/24
MT Outdoor Podcast: The Wizard of the Waterways is Back with 2024 Boat Tech!
TURKEY TRADITIONS!!! by Montana Grant
Group grabs bear cubs for photo
OFF TARGET!!! by Montana Grant
How to Clean a Wild Turkey
Fisherman harpooned after argument over catch size
Common sense isn’t always common…
FWP News: Partial closure at Swinging Bridge Fishing Access Site beginning April 22
Riley's Meats - Butte Wild Game Processing