Ice fishing is an addicting activity, providing you have the clothes and gear to help you spend long windows of time on a frozen lake. (Simon Matzinger/)
Even in the warmth of a heated hut, ice fishing can still be an uncomfortable pursuit. Temperatures cold enough to lay down ten inches of boilerplate on a lake surface will quickly take their toll. But once you have the shelter and basic gear taken care of, it’s time to think about investing in a few of the creature comforts that make ice fishing both safer and more enjoyable. Here are a few accessories to consider.
Ice Cleats
Turn any pair of boots into ice-gripping machines with a pair of cleats. (Yaktrax/)
When a cold front with high wind scours the snow off the ice pack, footing can be treacherous. Increase your traction with a pair of slip-on ice cleats. Some brands are adjustable for a universal fit, while others require sizing to your specific footwear.
Heated Socks
If you want to keep your feet especially warm, you can’t go wrong with electric socks. (GLOBAL VASION/)
A pair of battery-operated socks will make you a more productive angler by extending your time on the ice. Look for stocking-length socks with a rechargeable battery system so that you always have a pair ready to go when the walleye or pike bite heats up.
Arctic Boots
If you want to keep your feet dry, as well as warm, a one piece, insulated, over-the-calf boot is the only way to go. (Muck Boot/)
Not just any old boot will do for ice fishing. To sit for long hours in an ice hut, you need a serious pair of insulated boots that are still comfortable enough to hike in. A pair of flexible, neoprene-insulated muck boots will keep you warm, dry, and mobile in temperatures far below freezing.