Evan Gregor: Catch bigger fish through the ice with active presentations
It is time to dispel a popular myth about ice fishing. While yes, panfish are a popular target for ice anglers, predator species like bass, pike, walleye and trout are able to be caught through the hardwater too. In fact, if you can dial in how to catch these species through ice, you may find that this is one of the most fun ways to fish for your favorites.
When we think of ice fishing, we think about extremely downsized gear. We think about short rods, mini reels, small baits and light line. Put that together and it makes sense that small fish would be the assumed ceiling for what can be caught through the ice. However, with just the slightest modifications to your gear and your plan, bigger things are possible.
Over the last few years, more and more companies have begun making tougher, more durable ice rods and reels, which are designed specifically for combat with bigger fish. You will even find that ice combos now can be identified by their power and action in the same way that regular rods are. For bigger fish, I recommend a medium or heavy power with a fast action.
With a beefed-up rod and reel, you can expand your bait options greatly. For species like bass, walleye and pike, it is better to use larger, more active baits like spoons, jigging raps and blade baits. Not only are these baits better for drawing and holding a fish's attention, they also tend to dissuade smaller fish from attacking your offerings. As they say, bigger baits equal bigger fish.
Active baits are not the only ticket for a successful day on the ice. On some days, particularly those that are extremely cold, fish can be in a negative mood and don't feel like chasing down an active bait.
Recently, the "deadsticking" technique, which involves presenting a live or dead baitfish on an ice rod and watching for a strike has grown in popularity and is a great option.
Once you have your gear locked down, your approach in targeting predator species through the ice should be the same as it is during open water.
For the most part, fish will relate to similar areas with some variance. Work the same areas you normally would, and if you don't have success right away, stay mobile. As long as you are fishing safe ice, it pays to be mobile and always have contingency plans to find the bite.