.

What is Ice Fishing?

Ice fishing is a popular form of angling in northern regions, where lake surfaces freeze solid. Ice fishermen drill holes through the ice, then lower lures or baited hooks into the water. By jigging the lure or bait, or by letting live bait swim freely on the end of the line, the angler hopes to attract game fish. Although ice fishing can be done with regular bait fishing tackle, most enthusiasts prefer ice fishing rods, which are shorter poles with less complicated reels. Many anglers drag lightweight, wooden shacks and plastic or nylon tents onto the ice, to provide protection from the weather.

Contributed By:

Jay H. Cassell, M.A.
Senior Editor, Sports Afield. Member, Outdoor Writers Association of America. Contributor, Business Week, Camping Journal, and other publications.

"Fishing," Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2000
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2000 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.