I live in Western Washington and in warm months hike up to fish trout in mountain lakes. Because I suck at steelhead fishing I was thinking of hiking up there to try ice fishing in the winter. I’ve only been ice fishing a few times and have little experience with ice (and a healthy fear of it). But trying to avoid lugging a full size spud bar up. I see a 19” hammer chisel for sale, does something like that work fine? Any other recs? Thanks!
(Pic is Alaska)
Posted by je_me_n_fou_tiste
2 Comments
Literally anything sturdy that you are comfortable with smacking into the ice.
The weight of the spud makes it easier to break through…so you can quickly see if the ice is safe or not. Or, if you cant break through, you KNOW youre safe to walk. If you’re using something shorter and lighter, you’re probably going to have to use a lot more time and effort in one spot to really ensure your safe.
If you’re just looking to find a spot and set up all day, you’re probably good. But if you plan on moving around, drilling a bunch or holes searching for the bite, that might get old in a hurry.