What other accessories do I need for ice fishing?Ī. If you’re bringing a vehicle or tons of gear, look for ice that’s at least 8 inches thick.
This can hold an average person’s weight on the ice. It’s recommended that ice be at least 4 inches thick before you step on it. Ice fishing jigs FAQ How thick should the ice be before I can fish on it?Ī. Expect to spend around $20-$45 for a medium-sized set, or $0.30-$1.00 per jig. The cost of ice fishing jigs usually depends on the piece count and whether you prefer tungsten or lead. How much you can expect to spend on ice fishing jigs If you don’t have one already, look for an ice fishing jig kit that comes with a tackle box. That’s why it’s important to keep all of your ice fishing jigs organized in their own divided compartments. In certain situations, you may need to grab a specific type of jig fast. Once submerged, a flash of light can be seen at a greater distance, increasing your chances of a bite.
Many feature a shiny surface that will reflect sunlight even in murky water. Most fishing lures have bright colors which draw out curious fish. Every species is different, however, so the key is choosing a kit that comes with a wide variety of jig shapes for every occasion. In the water, certain shapes and orientations provide visual stimuli that can capture the attention of nearby fish. Ice fishing jigs appear in many different shapes and sizes, from vertical “spoons” to horizontal teardrops. What to look for in quality ice fishing jigs Shapes While most ice anglers use a combination of lead and tungsten, this ecological concern encouraged many to choose tugsten exclusively. That being said, some ecologists have concerns that the lead found on jigs could slowly dissolve and seep into bodies of water, posing a potential environmental hazard. Because it’s less expensive to produce lead products, you’ll find a greater variety of shapes and sizes to choose from. Tungsten jigs are more environmentally-friendly than lead, but they often come with a higher price tag.Ĭompared to tungsten, lead jigs sink more slowly, which can be attractive to certain species of fish that like to feed near the surface of the ice. You can also use tungsten ice fishing jigs to strike the bottom of a lake with greater force, a technique that’s particularly effective if you’re targeting bottom-dwelling species like panfish or bluegills. They may also show up more clearly on an ice fishing flasher. This is a huge advantage if you’re fishing through slushy ice or need to drop a line fast. Tungsten is extremely dense and heavy, so the jigs sink quickly and in a straight line. Most ice fishing jigs use either lead or tungsten to add weight. Fishing with a jig is known as “jigging” and is currently one of the most popular styles of ice fishing. Once the jig is in the water, it makes a jerking motion that is attractive to certain species of fish, particularly those sought after when ice fishing. luresĪlthough it has the same basic function as a traditional fishing lure, a jig features a weighted component that causes it to sink quickly. What to know before you buy ice fishing jigs Jigs vs. If you’re looking for a comprehensive jig set that offers the best of both worlds, the Goture Tungsten Ice Fishing Jigs Kit with Tackle Box is the top pick. Some manufacturers design ice fishing jigs with versatility in mind, while others tend to attract specific species of fish. These lures have a weighted sinker and are often brightly colored to attract the attention of nearby fish. Ice fishing can require a lot of gear, but few accessories are as important as a quality jig.