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Dress For the Ice Fishing Success: Choosing Ice Fishing Gear
from: Maxx Sports GuidesOne of your main considertions when ice fishing is dressing warm and staying warm while out on the ice. Thus it's important to get the right ice fishing gear so your day is as comfortable as possible. The new moisture wicking fabrics available are great for assisting to keep the fisherman dry, but the ultra light and very insulating microfibers are also hold heat extremely well and provide maximum strength wind resistance.
Always Dress for Succes in Layers
The main factor in choosing ice fishing gear to keep you warm and dry is dressing in layers, instead of selecting one heavy or bulking item in an attempt to have it do everything. Inner layers should, obviously, be designed to keep moisture and perspiration away from your skin, with the next layer for insulation, and then a final layer for wind and moisture resistance from the outside. Each layer of your ice fishing gear is critical for preventing hypothermia that could result from sitting those long hours on the ice.
Even if you have a shanty or ice fishing tent or shelter, it's critically important to so you're fully prepared to get back to shore in the event of an emergency or sudden blizzard that prevents you from getting back to your vehicle or the shoreline.
Essential Ice Fishing Gear:
* Moisture Wicking Underlayer: Sporting goods stores sell moisture wicking clothing for work-outs in the gym, which can double as a good under layer for winter. The polypropylene fabric actually draws the moisture away from the skin, preventing that damp feeling often is felt with cotton. Once your skin gets damp, you'll find the cold is much more intense and uncomfortable.
* Warming Layer: There are many traditional fabrics that are perfect as the warming or insulating layer of your ice fishing gear. Wool, fleece as well as down items can be used for this purpose. Remember, if you're using wool or fleece they'll need to have a wind breaking fabric such as a nylon blend on one side to prevent the wind and outside moisture from getting in. Microfiber has become increasingly popular because it's both lightweight and very warm, with water resistance to top it all off.
* Water and Wind Resistance Layer: Nylon or leather are great as a wind breaking outer shell, with nylon being much lighter and easy to carry as an extra only to be used, if required. Many of the nylon windbreakers or shells fold into clip on pouches, ideal for packing into tackle boxes for use when needed.
* Foot Protection: Waterproof rubberized boots with a removable felt liner are a great choice when combined with moisture wicking socks and sports socks. If you have room, take an extra pair of felt liners if your feet tend to give off a lot of moisture.
In addition, goggles, scarves, face-masks or wool hats with ear flaps are important to keep your head dry and warm, even if your jacket has a hood. Mitts, gloves and hand warmer packets are great ideas to add to your ice fishing gear.
Ice Fishing Resorts News