Ice Fishing Trout

Rainbow through the ice

Ice fishing trout is a terrific way to catch this species of fish. Fortunately for fisherman, many trout species are stocked in reservoirs and lakes all over Canada and the northern United States. This gives hard water anglers an opportunity to catch these game-fish year round.

One particular species that is stocked in a huge number of lakes is the rainbow trout. Being a cold water fish, the rainbow continues to be aggressive year round. This is something smart anglers know they can take advantage of.

Like real estate, the underlying principle for ice fishing trout is location, location location. The rainbow trout will prowl the shallows during the winter months as it scouts out its next meal. This is where you need to set up shop.

Typically the most success ice fishing for rainbow trout happens during low light periods. In the evening or early morning the rainbow will invade the shallows looking for a variety of baitfish to devour.

Large rainbow trout (topping 10 pounds) have been caught in water 5 feet or less. Many anglers know that when it comes to ice fishing for trout, bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. Tiny jigs (even those 1/100 of an ounce) with maggots loaded on them have produced some terrific fish.

Keep in mind while ice fishing trout that they have a very good sense of smell. Powerbait is an effective attractant to help lure them in. The same can be said for a number of other artificial baits if the maggots aren’t working.

Give yourself a real edge. Get out to your fishing location and drill your holes 45 minutes before sun-up. You don’t want to show up in 4 feet of water and drill a hole right over their heads. So get there early, and you will be ready and waiting when they start their prowl.

Set up along the edge of underwater shelves and creek channels to give yourself the best chance. There should be baitfish in the area and the trout will move in for the kill when the light is still dim. Make sure you align your holes to varying depths along the shelf and prepare yourself for some action.

Ice fishing for trout is a terrific way to spend a winter day. Arm yourself with knowledge, the right bait and the right tackle and you will get your share of rainbow.

Thanks for reading.

Good fishing.

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