Ice Fishing: Tackle

Tip-ups - Used for game fish; a flag "tips up" when a fish strikes. Lures - Ice flies and teardrop lures with live bait are recommended for panfish. Hooks - Small No. 10 or 12 hooks are recommended for panfish. Short shank No. 3 hooks work well for walleye, while northern pike require large No. 2/0 to 6/0 hooks.
Tip-up Lures Lures Hooks

In addition, some other helpful tackle information.

Jigging Rods - Light and flexible rods used primarily for panfish and walleye. Jigs - Walleyes can be caught on minnow imitation jigs. What type of Line to use for ice fishing
Jigging Rods Jigs Line for panfish for small No. 10 or 12 hooks - light, monofilament, 2 to 4-pound test is all that is needed.
Game fish - require a stronger line - for the short shank No. 3 hooks for walleye, and large No. 2/0 to 6/0 hooks for northern pike require at least a 10-pound test is advised.

Additional equipment includes an ice chisel to widen auger holes. Illustrations by David Brickert.

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Last Revised: Tuesday February 19 2008