Frabill's Tips for Ice Fishing Beginners
Every year it seems like more people are showing an interest in the fun and affordable sport of ice fishing. Some anglers may have never fished in their lives until being introduced to the icy side of fishing. This project has tips and tricks from Frabill, including the ice fishing equipment you'll need to get started with frozen lake fishing.
Starting on the ice is not expensive. The basic ice fishing equiptment tools are a rod / reel combination, drill, bucket with a seat, jigs and bait. Galusha also suggests adding portable ice fishing shelters to your gear, especially after the first few times if the decision has been made to stay in the sport.
Galusha suggests a spinning combination with 24" light action rod. He specifically recommends the Frabill 24" Ultra Light Panfish Popper Plus Ice Combo for it's ease of use and spring bobber. If budget allows, purchase two combinations. The reels are ultra lights, which can also be used during open water times of the year.
Next, comes a drill. This tool is essential, and a hand model may be preferred at the beginning, mainly because of cost. If you think you'll stick the the sport, Galusha suggests a power drill may be considered to drill your holes. The DEWALT Compact Cordless Drill / Driver Kit is sure to do the trick with it's 18V power and long batter life. 
Another essential of the sport is a stool to sit on while you're out on the ice. Frabill has a combination of bucket and seat called a Sit-N-Fish, which also has an area for bait and tackle. This multi-functional product has a padded foam snap - on seat lid and beverage holders on inner bucket lid. 
When it comes to ice fishing jigs, Galusha recommends sticking to the basics. Custom Jigs & Spins is one of the most popular and productive products in ice fishing tackle. The assortments he uses are the glow colors in the Ratso, Rat Finkee and Demon models, in sizes of 12 through 8. 
Wax worms are a good all around bait, but make sure to have some jars of Berkley Powerbait Biodegradable Crappie Nibbles as well. While there are other Powerbait items to consider, Galusha has had excellent luck in tipping the Rat Finkee and Demon jigs with the Nibbles. Powerbait colors to consider are white, chartreuse and pink.
Ice fishing safety is very important, so be sure to have the proper warm clothing, including a good pair of gloves. Frostbite and hypothermia can be a serious problem for ice anglers. Wear thick gear like a Carhartt jacket and flannel lined jeans. 
Another product for safety on the lake is a set of ice picks that are worn around the neck on a cord. Hopefully a person will never have to use this device, but if they fall through the ice, it is the easiest way, other than having a rope thrown out by another person, to pull out of the hole.
As with everything, remember, safety first. Make sure the ice thickness is good (at least 3 to 4 inches). Check the ice fishing reports in your area. If possible go with a buddy, or where there is a group of other ice anglers close by. Even experienced ice fisherman can find themselves in some tricky situations if they let their guard down.
