First
Ice Predator Fish
By Mike Mladenik
The early ice period is by far
the most productive time to be on the ice. Not only will you
experience fast action, but also catch big fish. This is one of
the few times when you can fill a pail and catch a trophy on the
same day. Unlike later in winter when finesse presentations are
needed, early ice tactics are simple since fish are seldom
finicky.
Before heading out on the ice
always put safety first. On many lakes and flowages, the first
time out can be treacherous. Make sure there is at least three
to four inches of ice and try to avoid lakes and flowages with
moving water. Typically small lakes under 200 acres are the
first to have first ice. Another tip is to avoid fishing alone
at first ice.
Early ice can also be one of
the most comfortable and easy periods to fish. While
temperatures are cold, prolonged periods of sub-zero cold are
rare. Although nights are cold it is not unusual to be on the
ice and have temperatures above freezing during the day. Access
is also easy at first ice. Most of the action occurs within a
short distance from a lake’s access. With only limited snow
cover, moving around on the ice is no problem. However, if there
is snow on the ice, extreme caution is advised. No fish is worth
putting your life on the line.
Large predator fish are on the
prowl, and finding consistent action on many lakes and flowages
is no problem. Most fishermen will encounter both numbers of
fish and a real shot at a trophy. In fact, when it comes to
landing a wall hanger, there is no better time. In many places,
even large pike are common. Panfish will also feed heavily and
for extended periods of time. Like the predator fish, there is
an increase in the quality at first ice.
Most successful early ice
fisherman have a definite game plan before heading out on the
ice. Sure, there are many fish taken by lucky anglers, but
don’t rely on it. However, you won’t need the finesse
presentations that are needed later in the season. This is one
of the few periods when location is much more important than
presentation. Through the years I have seen fishermen doing many
things wrong, but they still catch fish, because they are on
fish. The secret to consistent catches of both numbers and
quality are shallow-water weeds. Many fishermen make the mistake
of looking for deepwater fish at first ice. Weeds that seemed
dead a few weeks before the ice covered the lake are now teaming
with life. Forage fish will move into the shallow weeds to feed,
and in turn, the larger predator fish will follow.
Throughout most of the open
water period, much of my time is spent fishing weedlines.
However, don’t make the mistake of just working the weedlines
at first ice. While weedlines will hold large fish they are not
the real hot spots. Fish holding on the weedlines tend to be in
the neutral mood. Open pockets in the weeds are the real haunts
of trophy pike and walleye. These fish are feeding and easy to
catch. It will take time and you will need to drill a series of
holes to find these open pockets. Since the ice is not that
thick, drilling a series of holes with a hand auger should be no
problem. If the lake you are fishing has different types of
weeds, then try to be specific. Cabbage weed will attract the
most fish, with coontail being a close second. Milfoil, although
it may seem dead can also be productive. Weed/transition areas,
where weed types change, can be sleeper areas for trophy pike
and walleye.
Both live and artificial
presentations are productive when working weeds at first ice. The
smart ice fisherman will use both presentations. Since we are
allowed three lines in Wisconsin, use them all. What I will do is
set one tip up along the weedline, one in an open pocket, and jig
with my third line. When jigging, work both the open weed pockets
and the weedline. Drill a series of holes and spend about ten
minuets in each. By jumping around, you will find the active fish.
While jigging use both jigging spoons and minnow baits, and give
them equal attention. On some days you will have action on the
spoon, then the action can stop, and the jigging Rapala will start
catching fish.
When using tip ups, use the
largest minnows if you are in pursuit of a trophy walleye or pike.
Golden shiners are the favorite bait of most winter fishermen.
They are hardy and the preferred forage. If you are just out for
action, than use smaller minnows. However, even a 20-inch walleye
will take a large golden shiner. If you are looking for walleye
after a passing cold front, go to a smaller minnow. Fatheads are
also a good choice in this situation.
The type of lake or flowage
you pick is, of course, important. It is important to know your
objective before heading out on the ice. If you are interested in
a trophy, choose a lake with a reputation for producing big fish.
If you are interested in action, fish an action lake. Also, choose
a lake or flowage with high numbers of your preferred species.
Some lakes will be predominantly walleye lakes while others will
be better known for pike or panfish. There are a few waters that
offer a multi-species fishery.
Both flowages and smaller
lakes are equally productive during the first ice period. Flowages
have a tendency to produce larger walleye. On the other hand, if I
am in pursuit of a trophy pike I might choose a natural lake. Many
flowages are better known for producing trophy walleye as opposed
to numbers. However, there are exceptions to every rule.
Don’t pass up the early ice
action once December arrives. For those who have limited
experience or want to learn more there is no better time. For
information on my winter guide service call 715-854-2055, e-mail mladfish@ez-net.com
or see my web page www.fishinginfo.com/go/mikemladenik
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