Text by Dick Snyder. Image courtesy of MIHTIANDER (iStock).

Ice fishing may not be an exclusively Canadian winter pursuit, but it’s pretty close — close enough that we may as well claim it as our own. Ice fishers across the country are passionate about this activity, and for good reason. Come winter, we swap the fishing boat for an ice hut — or similar shelter — and create memories with our friends and families that last a lifetime. We also catch a lot of fish. Want to get in on the action? Here’s how.

Where to land a big one

Rated as one of Ontario’s top icefishing spots, Lake Nipissing is known for a lively winter supply of walleye, perch, pike and whitefish. (It’s the third-largest lake located entirely in Ontario.) The social scene is also lively, with hundreds of shacks, both private and rentable, from ice-fishing outfitters. Newbies and pros alike love this lake as it’s surrounded by communities that provide services and accommodations. Ontario’s official tourism website — destinationontario.com — offers advice on charter outfits that can set up a fishing expedition for you.

Pack right

A pleasant and comfortable day of ice fishing depends on preparation. You can fish with little more than a stool and a rod (and bait, of course), or you can go full on with a fully furnished cabin — or even a purpose-built icefishing vehicle with an open floor. But if you’re a newbie, here are some things you’ll definitely need:

• fishing licence (huntandfishontario.com)
• layers of clothing
• hot drinks or soup in an insulated container
• rod, tackle, bait and an auger
• gloves (at least two pairs)
• hand warmers
• ice auger and tape measure
• battery booster (just in case)

Safe on the ice

Make sure the ice is thick enough to support you. A tape measure and an ice auger (hand, electric or gas) can be used to measure ice thickness and to drill fishing holes. Check with other anglers to get their expert opinions about ice conditions, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area where you intend to fish. Because ice does not freeze at uniform thickness, its strength can vary. Follow these basic guidelines to determine if you will be safe on the ice.

Ice fishing or skating: 4 inches (10 cm) Snowmobiling: 5 inches (12 cm) Car or small pickup: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) Medium truck: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) Large trucks: 30+ inches (76+ cm)