December is here, and in Devils Lake, that means one thing — early ice fishing season is here! This time of year is perfect for gearing up and making sure you have everything ready for a successful winter on the ice. From checking your gear to getting your ice house in tip-top shape, here’s your guide to getting ready for the best ice fishing experience this season!
1. Respool and Refresh Your Lines
Start by respooling your lines. Winter weather can be tough on lines, and fresh line reduces the chance of breaks when you are setting that next hook into a walleye or jumbo perch. Braided line is an excellent choice especially when fishing deep basins on Devils Lake for perch.
2. Charge All Electronics
There’s nothing worse than hitting the ice and realizing your sonar or underwater camera battery is dead. Now’s the time to fully charge all your electronic devices, from fish finders to power augers, and consider carrying a backup battery pack.
3. Inspect and Prep Your Ice House
Your ice house is your winter home away from home, so give it a thorough inspection. Check for any damage to the walls, floors, or insulation, and repair any issues. Test zippers, windows, and doors to make sure they’re in good shape, especially if you’re planning on some long days out there. If you’re planning on taking out a wheelhouse or trailer, now’s also the time to inspect tires, brakes, and the hitch to ensure a smooth trip to your favorite spot.
4. Stock Up on Propane and Test Heaters
Nothing beats a warm ice house when it’s freezing outside! Make sure you have enough propane on hand to keep you cozy all season long. November is the perfect time to test your heaters and run them to ensure they’re in safe working order. Clean any dust or debris from the burners and check hoses and connections for leaks. This extra step will keep you warm and safe during long days on the lake.
5. Restock Basic Lures and Tackle
Devils Lake is home to walleye, perch, northern pike, and more, so get your lure collection ready. Stock up on essentials like jigging spoons, rattle baits, and your go-to jigs for those Devils Lake fish. Make sure you have a variety of sizes and colors since fish can be finicky, and a small change can sometimes make a big difference.
6. Prepare Your Winter Apparel
Staying warm is key to enjoying the ice season, so dig out your winter gear and make sure it’s ready for action. Look over your boots, gloves, hats, and bibs to ensure they’re in good shape, and consider investing in new layers if anything is worn out. A quality set of ice cleats for traction on slippery surfaces is also a must-have item especially on those first ice outings before we have any substantial amount of snow on the ground.
7. Safety Gear: Check and Prepare
Safety on the ice is paramount, so don’t skip out on checking your safety gear. Make sure you have a pair of ice picks, a rope, and a flotation device, especially if you’ll be out early in the season when ice thickness can vary. Bringing along a buddy and keeping communication open is always a smart idea, particularly if you’re exploring new areas on the lake.
8. Get Excited! It’s Early Ice Season!!
As you prep your gear, get ready for what’s shaping up to be another fantastic season on Devils Lake.
We hope to see you on the ice soon!