Ice fishing is common around the Great Lakes region and fishermen can often be seen on the lakes throughout the day. Their goal is to escape the chaos of everyday life along with the challenge of catching fish.

Fishermen also find solitude in the outdoors when casting on line down a little hole in the ice. They are able to withstand the cold outdoor weather, a place many choose not to be in the dead of winter. If you can tolerate cold, ice fishing may be for you.

All around the Great Lakes region, there are plenty of icy shorelines, bays, and harbors to fish on. Other areas of the lake do not freeze solid enough to withstand fishermen and their vehicles so be cautious when you venture out on the lakes.

The Department of Natural Resources puts out warnings for areas that have thin ice. The DNR recommends that the people stay off the ice if it is less than 2 inches thick. If you are going to fish on the ice, make sure it is at least 4 inches thick. If you plan on hauling your fishing gear with a smaller vehicle on the ice, then make sure the ice is 8 to 12 inches thick.

The DNR also has information about what to do if you break through the ice. They suggest bringing two large nails with you to use as ice picks in case you fall through. When driving on the ice, keep your car windows and door partially open in case you go through the ice. This way you won’t be trapped inside.

When it comes to drilling a hole to fish in, you can use either a manual hand auger, which will challenge your arm muscles or a gas powered ice auger. Cordless drill augers and electric augers are also available. Once you have the fishing holes drilled you are on your way to a day of fishing.

Common fish caught during the winter months are bluegill and perch. Bluegills live in depths of less than 12 feet. They like to be in water with vegetation and no current. Perch can also be found moving close to the bottom of the lake and can be caught easier in the early mornings or evenings hours.

An interesting tidbit is that some fishermen believe that a full moon will trigger fish to feed more often than when it is dark. Remember to use more caution if you are fishing after dark on a full moon night.

When fishing, be mindful of the daily catch limit. The restrictions vary depending on location and type of fish. Not only will you keep yourself out of trouble but the lake will remain plentiful for another day of fishing.