Comfort on the Ice, or outdoors begins with fingers, toes, and your noses. If they get cold, the day will be cut short. Most ice fishermen hate being on the ice once they freeze up.
Fishermen will inevitably get their hands wet. Try carrying several extra sets of lightweight gloves. You can buy lightweight cotton gloves at the local hardware store on the cheap. They come in 3 packs or by the dozen. When they get wet, grab another pair.
Hand Warmers can save the day. The shake and bake style hand warmers are simple and keep your fingers comfy. Use the larger sizes. They offer over 12 hours of warmth. Open the wrapper before you hit the water and place them into your parka pockets. Don’t get them wet. This style of warmer is cheap, disposable, and stink free. Other older style warmers have odors and can get too hot. Another option is the gel pack, reusable warmers. You simply squeeze them to start, and they warm up fast. The downside is they offer only a few hours of comfort. If your fingers get cold, grab a gel warmer. To reuse, you need to boil hem when you get home.
Standing in cold water atop the ice, or winter wetness will freeze your feet. Try wearing a thin polypropylene sock. Attach a toe warmer to the top of your toes. These warmers are like the shake and bake styles and stay warm with minimal air. Don’t wear too many socks If your feet are tight in the boot, circulation of blood is reduced. Leave some wiggle room. Socks and liners that wick moisture away from your toes and feet are great. Rubber, insulated pacs, or high-topped boots keep the water out and heat in.
Ears are also something to remember. Frostbite can quickly nip at your ear tips. Earmuffs or a wrapped scarf are helpful. Coating your ear tips, nose, and fingers with a moisturizer or Vaseline will prevent freezing.
Most of your body heat is contained in your core. A vest helps keep your core warm. Most of your heat is lost from your head. Wear a hat that also wicks moisture away. Carry an extra cap or watch cap if your head gets sweaty in the cold.
Great polarized fishing goggles or glasses will protect your eyes from brite, reflected light. They also keep sharp hooks away from your important peepers.
Chocolate helps generate heat in your body. Warm liquids and snacks can keep your body’s furnace going.
Booze will cause your body to lose heat. Finding a pee tree on an open lake is unlikely. Booze is a diuretic and will make you pee more.
There is no reason to be miserable when out in the wet, cold, and winter weather. Gear up properly and address your personal and specific needs. Everyone is different. The more comfortable that you are, the more fun you will have.Stay toasty and comfy!
Montana Grant
