How To Stay Warm While Ice Fishing
Geoff Stadnyk in Ice Fishing on
Ice fishing offers an angling experience like no other.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or brand new to ice fishing, the elements must be respected and staying warm is key.
We explore how to stay warm on the ice with our top 4 tips below.
Cover Your Face With a Specialized Fishing Face Mask
Protecting your face against the elements should be top of your list.
When you’re out on the ice, you’re totally exposed to the often beating sun, harsh winds and sometimes even snowfall.
A specialized fishing face mask such as a bandana or neck gaiter is a must have to not only stay warm, but to stay safe from the sun and harsh winds.
A fishing face mask can add some personality to your sometimes bland, warm ice fishing kit so why not have some fun with your mask by choosing a fishing inspired design?
The more versatile the design you choose the better, but always make sure the face mask you choose is soft, breathable, moisture wicking and wind resistant in order to keep you safe and comfortable for extended periods of time.
Layer Your Clothes
As ice fishing sees your time split between intense setting up, followed by long periods of down-time, layering your clothes is key and also wear a fishing bibs.
You want to wear layers that allow you to add and remove as the time comes to avoid both overheating, as well as the better known risks of hypothermia.
When you get out on the ice, you’re going to exert a lot of energy setting up so you don’t want to be too wrapped.
Allow your body’s core temperature to naturally rise and trap that in with layers as you then settle in for a long day’s fishing.
If you can successfully keep yourself warm and dry, you’ll ultimately be able to extend your time on the ice and catch more fish.
Here’s a also a list of the best ice fishing shelters and ice fishing heaters that you can use aside from layering your clothes.
Pay Extra Attention to Your Hands and Feet
While layers focus on your core body temperature, it’s actually your extremities that act as temperature regulators.
By paying extra attention to keeping your hands and feet warm, you’re able to stay comfortable for longer out on the ice.
Waterproof gloves and fishing shoes are an obvious tip, as allowing freezing cold water to seep through as you go about your day can be catastrophic.
Your gloves, socks and possibly feet warmers are pieces of equipment you want to go all out on when you’re stocking up.
If you’re trying to find somewhere to save money, we highly recommend not doing it here.
Stay Hydrated and Avoid Alcohol
Our final tip may come as a disappointment for some, but we have to bust the common misconception that alcohol keeps you warm on the ice.
While alcohol may feel warm going down, it will actually lower the core temperature of your body as you are dehydrated.
Instead, focus on staying hydrated by drinking a humble bottle of water.
It may not be as fun, but it will keep you warmer on the ice.
You can also have a fire while ice fishing, just read this article first to know the legalities and some safety tips.
We also have an article here about drinking alcohol while fishing that you might be interested in.
Geoff started fishing as a child in the gorgeous lakes of Mammoth, while on family vacations. His fishing experience includes the use of fly rod and reel. Guided trips along the Madison and Gallatin rivers in Montana, the Frying Pan and Animus in Colorado, and the Deschutes river in Oregon have all paid off and helped make Geoff the angler and writer that he is today.
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