I went out today, and that was a mistake. Caught one small bluegill and my hands felt like they were frostbitten. I’m not giving up on ice fishing this season, but I’m waiting for the pre-spring warm up. Better days ahead, hopefully.

I used to only use a 24″ rod since I began ice fishing. This year, I got a 30″ rod, and I’m loving it more each time out on the ice. No more having to sit right up to the hole in the ice. Now that I can kneel or sit farther away, I don’t get flasher eyes as much. Also, it’s easier to get the rod tip closer to the water when fishing outside which keeps the line from blowing in the breeze.

Thanks for sharing, loomis821. This shack is definitely on my wish list. It’s not too overly large to handle w/ one person and would make a spacious one man shack. Going out with a buddy? Plenty of room to fish 2 people comfortably. Very versatile, warm shack in my opinion. I’ve checked out the fabric at a local sports shop and all I can say is wow. That fabric is very heavy/thick and should be incredibly warm. Congrats on the purchase!

Looking forward to the Battle! This will be my third year going, and I will be bringing 3 newbies with…my wife, my brother and his girlfriend. We all have off work on Friday the 21st, so we’re heading there early from the Madison area to fish day 1. Driving off Merritt street and hopefully we can get into those schools of whitebass right away. Should be a blast! Good luck at the tourney, Bagobum!