Ice fishing, like its sister sport fly fishing, can be a solitary endeavor; however, both types of fishing are also enjoyed by those who enjoy a little company while casting their rods. Ice fishing has become increasingly popular amongst those who appreciate company on the ice. Every year it seems more and more people take up the sport of ice fishing.

Ice fishing requires a lake with fish in it that is covered with a solid sheet of ice. Ice fishers drill a hole in the ice; plop themselves down on a seat of some sort and then wait for the fish. Thousands of people participate in this sport and their number is growing larger every year.

It would seem obvious that ice fishing would be a favorite among people who live in the northern most states of The Union. It does indeed prosper there but many would be surprised that there is also good ice fishing much further south. Colorado might not be much of a stretch for ice fishing but there are also several excellent sites in the mountains of Arizona.

Just like hunting and fishing during the warmer seasons, ice fishing requires a license. Most states require that those who hunt and fish carry their licenses on them at all times. There may also be regulations about the lakes which can be fished. Check with the state in which you plan to fish to find out the specific details of the laws in that region.

Many different types of fish find their ways onto the hooks of ice fishers. Perch are widely fished on the ice. If you are looking to land a perch, you will probably want to cast your line down low. A lot of perch will be found deep in the water during the winter.

Obviously, taking to the ice to fish requires special gear. Clothing will be one of the most important parts of your equipment. Dress to ice fish just like you would dress to go out in extremely cold weather. Wear multiple layers and do not forget to cover your head, ears, and neck.

In addition to the regular equipment carried by fishers, those who ice fish have several pieces of equipment which are specific to the sport. Ice fishers need drills to cut through the ice. They also need tools for keeping the hole open. You will probably decide that a sled on which to carry all of these provisions is an absolute necessity.

Hearty souls may choose to sit out in the open while ice fishing. A lot of ice fishers find that bringing a portable ice shack with them increases their enjoyment. Shacks allow ice fishers to stay on the ice for longer periods of time. Some ice fishers have semi-permanent shacks that are large enough to accommodate several people at one time.

All ice fishers will tell you they have a special trick for catching fish. The most important trick may be in knowing your quarry. Trout respond well to lures that move. Bounce your lure along just below the surface of the water and see how many trout jump to the bait.

Pulling out the fishing gear when old man winter is well on his way may at first seem out of place. One trip to the ice turns many a skeptic into a lifelong ice fishing enthusiast. Therefore, when there is a decided nip in the air, pull your waders on over a few pairs of thermal underwear and head off to the lake to ice fish.