01-03-2019, 03:03 PM
So many variables to think about. One other thing to be very careful of is when you're icing a fish through a 6" to 10" hole you or someone else is often staring right down the line to a hook in a struggling fishes mouth. If that hook pops loose it may impale you in your face. It's always a good idea to wear sunglasses or stay just off to the side when trying to slide that fish on to the ice. I got a hook past the barb in my hand last year from a hook coming through a hole.
Another thing when dealing with large fish, stay calm and let him fight! It's also important to keep the line in the center of the hole as much as possible. Without holding the line you guide the line with your hand so the fish doesn't saw you off, especially important when using 6 lb test or less. A little tricky when you're alone, but I do it all the time.
If you plan to release your fish, pay attention to the weather and ice conditions. If you're outside and the temps are below about 20 degrees the fins will freeze quickly so you have about 30 seconds or less to get that fish back down the hole. I never leave a fish laying on ice for more than a few seconds unless there is snow or melt water to protect it from freezing. If the wind is blowing cold the fins with freeze rapidly. All this changes somewhat if you're in a tent, but just pay attention to conditions.
I personally never use my boot or any tools to handle or manipulate fish, only to remove hooks. My hands are easier on fish and I take a hand towel to dry off and stay warm.
My 2 cents.
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Another thing when dealing with large fish, stay calm and let him fight! It's also important to keep the line in the center of the hole as much as possible. Without holding the line you guide the line with your hand so the fish doesn't saw you off, especially important when using 6 lb test or less. A little tricky when you're alone, but I do it all the time.
If you plan to release your fish, pay attention to the weather and ice conditions. If you're outside and the temps are below about 20 degrees the fins will freeze quickly so you have about 30 seconds or less to get that fish back down the hole. I never leave a fish laying on ice for more than a few seconds unless there is snow or melt water to protect it from freezing. If the wind is blowing cold the fins with freeze rapidly. All this changes somewhat if you're in a tent, but just pay attention to conditions.
I personally never use my boot or any tools to handle or manipulate fish, only to remove hooks. My hands are easier on fish and I take a hand towel to dry off and stay warm.
My 2 cents.
[signature]