Ice Fishing With Kids

Over the past weekend we decided to venture out into the cold temperatures for some ice fishing. This winter, we have spent a lot of time on the ice as we consider it a great socially distant activity. Some family joined us out on the ice with their kids and it turned out to be a fun-filled family day! Spending the day with my nieces and nephews is always a blast, but we enjoy it even more when we get to teach them about something we love to do. 

Throughout the day we could see them processing things as they came up with new questions about fishing. Through all the fun and memories made, there were a few lessons that came out of the day about ice fishing with kids. Read on - this could help you out if you are planning a family ice fishing trip to Tupper Lake. 

Patience

Patience is key. My husband found that out while setting up tip ups for a day of ice fishing is a process on its own, it takes even longer when there are kids around to help. From wanting to help with unwinding the string on the tip ups to helping to put the bait on the hook, their little hands were everywhere! 

Once we got everything set up the real test of patience started. Sometimes we go hours without a flag up, but luckily that wasn’t the case today. After a little waiting time we started to get some flags. The kids were so excited to run from flag to flag to see what could possibly be on the hook. Sometimes there was a fish and sometimes there was nothing but the bait. Patience prevailed and throughout the day we caught some decent fish.

Not about the size of the catch

We found that although we weren’t impressed with every catch of the day, the kids were excited whether it was a tiny perch or a large northern pike. I realized throughout the day that it’s not necessarily about the size of the catch, because memories are being made all day, no matter what the tip ups do. They were no more impressed by any certain fish than another, but their smiles every time were contagious! 

Dress in layers and bring extra clothes

There is bound to be some slush and water on the ice from drilling holes. No doubt, the kids will find it and their mittens will be soaked. It’s always a good idea to bring extra mittens or gloves, socks, hats, etc., so they don’t get wet and cold. 

Also, while ice fishing we have seen it be a beautiful day with no wind, yet turn to a very brisk wind chill on the ice. If that happens, you will want to put another layer on to keep you warm enough. 

Bring a lot of hotdogs and snacks

Kids get hungry! Make sure to pack snacks for throughout the day; we enjoy bringing a tiny grill and hot dogs to make “ice fishing hotdogs,” in the words of my nieces. Stop by Shaheen’s IGA to stock up on all food supplies you will need for an enjoyable day on the ice. 

We will be back on the ice soon with family to make more memories. Looking at planning a winter getaway to Tupper Lake? Now is your chance! Find a place to stay, and stop by the local bait shops for gear and all the best ice fishing info.