Page 8 - Fishing Report 12-15-14

Get Ready for Ice 2015 with Dave Lefebre
Ice fishing prep for novices

Dave Lefebre may be better known as a professional bass angler on the FLW
Tour events. But during his winter downtime, Dave is a diehard ice angler spe-
cializing in panfish. Last year he was named to Rapala’s Ice Force Team. Antici-
pating solid ice on local waters sometime in January of 2015, I’ve asked Dave
to provide tips for beginning ice fishermen.

Few of us can run out and spend a bunch of money unwisely on a new pastime
activity. But if you are just getting into ice fishing there are numerous items
which are must-have.

“One thing you cannot skimp on is an ice hut,” says Lefebre. “This shelter serves as a home base. That
does not mean you spend all your time in the hut. On the contrary, I fish more out of the hut than in it
because I move around a lot drilling new holes. But you need a hut to get out of the elements and warm
up. I’ve been doing this a long time, and there is no compromise when it comes to a hut – get the best
you can afford. I use an Otter, and I cannot say enough good things about it. It is easy to haul, carries
everything, sets up quickly and is insulated.”

Next you need an auger, along with electronics to see under water. This stuff can be pricey, too.

“It is nice to have a power auger, but if you are looking to stay within budget, you can get by with a
manual one,” explains Dave. “A 6-inch blade is all you need for crappies and panfish. Matter of fact, you
really don’t want a manual auger that cuts a hole bigger than six inches – a 8” or 10” manual auger will
wear you out. I use a StrikeMaster Electric Auger, but StrikeMaster also makes a nice six-inch manual
model for the beginner.

“Underwater cameras are super nice, but they are expensive compared to an ice sonar,” continues
Dave. “If you are trying to decide between the two, go with the sonar first. If you find ice fishing to your
liking, then you can pick up a camera later. I would not attempt to fish without a sonar – it is a must
have to find depth, cover and structure, as well as fish moving to your bait. My sonar is by MarCum –
the Flasher Ice System is an outstanding portable unit for ice fishing.”

Dave knows from years of experience that ice anglers don’t need the highest price ice rods and reels to
catch fish. “You can buy cheap ones for less than $20 or newest high tech ones for more than $100. I
would suggest getting a $50 rod-and-reel combo from 13 Fishing – solid and reliable and will last a long
time. Use light line – I’m talking one and two-pound test. Buy the smallest ice jigs you find and tip them
with a live maggot. Now, you almost ready to go fishing.”

The final advice involves dressing for the ice. “You must have a waterproof outer
shell in order to stay dry. You are bound to be kneeling around the hole in sloppy
ice water and if you get wet, your day is done. The other absolute must have
item: ice cleats! These can save you from a wicked fall. I recommend 32 North
cleats which are easy on and easy off, and can literally save you from serious in-
jury!”