I’m a big fan of the St. Croix Legend Tourney Walleye 71MMF. I run alot of puppet minnows in #7 (9/16 oz.) with 15# Seguar hardline to a 10# fluoro leader, so the rod flex is pretty important. I’m a Croix guy, so there’s a bias for sure, but I’m one who prefers the play to be in the rod blank rather than my line. I just appreciate extra feel from hard line being transmitted through a more sensitive blank, and while most times that’s not needed on a fish pickup, it’s really useful to tell if you’ve fouled in weeds or on the line itself.

The Eyecon 71MMF is an honorable mention, and actually fishes just a touch slower than the LTW71MMF, so if you’re concerned about the rod being too unforgiving or losing fish, that’s a good one to try.

I think losing fish on these baits can be inevitable at times, but with consistent pressure and a good net buddy I tend to keep a strong majority of fish buttoned up. Most fish I miss/lose come from rolling them at the end of a long cast and never putting a good hook in them to begin with. Just my experiences.

Joel

Thanks for the warm welcome too you guys. I do appreciate it. I hope to be a resource for everyone here and give you guys some heads up when new things hit before the general public.

The feedback is much appreciated, you guys are great!

Joel

weedis wrote:

Nice to see you back Joel and looking forward to using and trying this app, big fan of Onx hunt. Any consideration by OnX to consolidate the hunt and fish into one app?

Thanks for the question! It’s unlikely we’ll combine into one app, as things would get a bit crowded trying to serve hunters and anglers alike. That said, we’re looking into bundling options for those that also enjoy onX Hunt.

Joel

Bearcat89 wrote:

The app didn’t come up in my app store. I use onx hunt all year round, hopefully onx fish is just as useful

Hey all, here’s the direct link for all apple phones – https://apps.apple.com/us/app/onx-fish-minnesota/id6466307868

There is currently no android version, but you can check out the same functionality and more on the web version – http://www.onxmaps.com/fish

Both are free for the time being!

Joel

bigstorm wrote:

Good to see you back on here! Too bad its not live for WI otherwise I would certainly check it out

We’re coming for you, WI is in the works.

Joel

James Holst wrote:

<div class=”d4p-bbt-quote-title”>evan_pheneger wrote:</div>

<div class=”d4p-bbt-quote-title”>crappie55369 wrote:</div>
Not sure the circumstances

I would assume this is the circumstances.
http://www.joelnelsonoutdoors.com/
IDO can take it down if its not ok but he went out on this own (maybe with tony roach) from the looks of it.

The link to Joel’s site is absolutely fine. Joel and I are still good friends and we spent time fishing together up on LOTW this summer. The time IDO demands to be part of the shows is intense and Joel had too many balls to juggle to be a regular contributor. And that’s really all there is to his departure. He’ll be missed but the show must go on!

James said it better than I could’ve!

Speculation has run rampant. Got a message from a friend this morning notifying me that a YouTube user by the name of Hugh G. Rection – if that’s even his real name! – suggested that perhaps I had caught Chlamydia and died. Sounds painful.

Happy to report that I’m alive AND Chlamydia free, but more importantly, that I’m a friend to James, the show, IDO, and all the wonderful members that make this place tick. In addition to other duties, I’ve got an 8 year old and an 11 year old that I owe some more time to, and to put out a quality product like the IDO TV show requires that time. There’s tons of great staff to ensure that the show won’t only go on, but it will prosper and grow. My hope is to pop in from time to time and see what I can add to the fray.

I just want to thank everyone here for watching In-Depth Outdoors and appreciating the product, as I’ve met an incredible number of great people both through the site and that watch the show religiously. To you who have put up with me invading your Sunday mornings over the years, I’m indescribably humbled. To James and the crew who have tolerated me over that same time, I’m equally grateful and will make sure we meet up on the ice this winter at least a few times. Might even have a few new dirty jokes for you guys? No promises, hopefully you forgot the old ones and they’ll be like new again.

Pray for ice!

Joel

Hey Dylan – looks alot better than my first one did! Unfortunately, I felt like I knew it all even from a young age, so I didn’t support my writing much with facts like you did. That said, I think the factual links and citations here make the article a tougher read. Cite them in a different manner, maybe leading readers to the links in a small bibliography section at bottom. Like Grouse mentioned, every article needs a purpose and an audience with which to direct your focus.

There’s a million styles, and it’s up to you through trial and error to find yours. Mine is more conversational, as it’s comfortable for me to write more like I speak. One thing that really helped me was to read more. The more you digest, the better you get at processing the information, and ultimately re-forming it and finding a way for yourself to spit it back out.

I wish you luck, and thanks for sharing. Keep at it!

Joel

Hey Justin – Thanks for posting. Whenever I’m comparing electronics, I try to make sure it’s apples to apples, and unfortunately, these two units are about as different as they come. One is a digital unit with a large flat-screen and attached camera, the other is an analog flasher with a motor that spins a light wheel. That’s not a knock either, as I’m a big fan of the Marcum LX-5 which is also an analog system.

The differences are as easy to see as just reading a spec. sheet for each product, but if I’m considering one or the other, I’d first consider how you’re going to use it. The LX-9, especially with attached camera is a much bulkier system. Remove the camera, and you’ve still got something with a larger footprint than a small analog flasher. If you’re putting it on the front of a boat (large, cheap screen for open-water) or fishing in a permanent or portable and don’t move much, that’s a positive. You get a bigger screen and more ways to customize it. If you’re a twitchy hole hopper, then you’ll probably want something smaller unless you can’t live without the customized view and options in a digital unit. If you already have an LX-9, then you should understand how those features benefit you, or don’t.

As far as which one will catch you more fish? The one you like better for the way you fish will always win out!

Joel

In general, I think people fish too small for big gills. There’s many instances where that’s a warranted approach, esp. in clear water, pressured water bodies, etc. However, bigger baits, esp. plastics tend to keep the smaller fish away, and select for larger fish in the school.

As for colors, red and various hues with white such as pink, glow pink, etc. are a standard. Black gets little attention, and is dynamite. From there it’s chartreuse and on down the list for me. A lot depends on where you fish!

Joel

Hey Chris, that’s a trick question!

Yes, there are GIS services that are free. Q-GIS is probably the most widely utilized and recognized, but you can also download a version of the industry standard (ArcGIS) for personal, non-commercial purposes only, for $100. If you really get serious about it, that’s what I’d recommend. Until then, trial versions of ArcGIS or Q would be what I recommend.

That said, much of the data you’re looking for is not geographically registered. Especially the DNR Lakemaps from MN. That said, there are some bathymetry data available – https://gisdata.mn.gov/dataset/water-lake-bathymetry, and a host of other data which you’re probably thinking of as well. For a list of that, check out – http://www.mngeo.state.mn.us/chouse/water_lakes.html.

The Data Deli has been put into retirement, so the statewide plan for MN is Geospatial Commons. That’s where I’d look to find additional datasets.

That said, Google Earth and its multi-year layers of imagery are important sources of information, but it’s just not as easily transferrable.

Hopefully that’s a good start!

Joel

I own a Lazer Lite myself (same motor), and as I’m sure customer service has relayed to you, it’s a different motor with slightly different starting procedures. Mine’s only accompanied me on one trip, and so far, very successful operation.

For the benefit of all, check out these reference materials and some of the improvements to this motor.

Chipper Lite/Lazer Lite Starting Procedure

Here at StrikeMaster Ice Augers, we are always looking for ways to improve and simplify your fishing experience. Our new Chipper Lite and Lazer Lite models is no exception. The Chipper Lite and Lazer Lite is equipped with the latest 2 cycle technology from Solo Motors. The Solo 111 allows easy start up to get you fishing faster.

The new Solo 111 engine brings forth many refined technical advances to maximize the operator’s efforts. These vast improvements are aimed to minimize start up time during cold weather operation. Solo has refined the startup procedure and understanding these changes will help the unfamiliar operator avoid frustration during startup.

These improvements include;
-New and Improved carburetor for better fuel efficiency
-A “No Flood” bypass primer
-Maximum efficiency choke baffle
-Automatic decompression system
-Solo’s “Easy-Start” spring assist recoil assembly

The carburetor on the new Solo 111 boasts various improvements that will allow more holes per tank. Allowing the operator to spend more time drilling between fill ups.

The “No Flood” bypass primer will not flood the engine no matter how many times you prime it. Simply pump the primer until the bulb is 90% full of fuel. (There will always be a small air bubble at the top of the primer)This should require only a few pumps. Once the bulb, any excess fuel is routed back into the fuel tank. This makes flooding the carburetor during priming impossible.
The Maximum efficiency choke baffle reduces the number of pulls need to start up in cold conditions. The coke baffle has a minimal air bypass hole to compensate for cold weather air density. This increases the effectiveness of the choke and reduces the number of pulls during start up. However, you can easily flood the engine if you do not follow the directions. Be sure to reposition the lever the “RUN” position as soon as the engine fires the first time.

Elimination of the decompression valve increases the cylinder pressure during startup. This will allow more fuel to be drawn into the combustion chamber for faster startup with fewer pulls.
The Recoil/starter assembly is Solo’s “Easy-Start” continuous engagement recoil system that ensures a “no-slip” grip between the recoil and the fly wheel. This eliminates any dry pulls which will reduce the risk of potentially damaging your equipment and reduce hand and arm fatigue.
Please follow these simple start up procedures for fast and effective startup.
1. Turn kill switch to the “ON” position
2. Pump the primer bulb until it is full of fuel
3. Move the choke lever to the “START” position
4. SLOWLY pull recoil handle out until you feel it engage the flywheel
5. Pull the recoil with an assertive, short pull
6. Pull the recoil until the first audible “fire” of the engine is heard(Should be 2-4 pulls)
7. Quickly move the choke lever to the “RUN” position
8. If the engine dies, pull over 1-2 more times.
Light pressure on the throttle lever after startup may be needed in extremely cold conditions to raise the engine RPMs to warm up the motor.

First – read this –
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fish/sunfish/management.html

Our panfish fisheries continue to fight old standards regarding bluegill proliferation. Historically, most anglers considered “thinning the herd” a necessity to bluegill angling; such that in order to have trophy fish, you needed to take alot of fish. We know that now to not be the case, but it’s still difficult to change old attitudes.

Special regulations for gills in our state, when first announced, faced a few major battles. The first being that now, anglers had lists to the top producing panfish waters in the state. Second, were they to work, they would likely take years to feel real and long-lasting effect. The third, and further reaching, is that panfish anglers did not support such changes. Worse, many concluded that should special regulations be effective in achieving an overall increase in fish size, they would resolve to fish harder and more often, thus increasing the overall exploitation rate. http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1577/1548-8675(1999)019%3C0515%3AAOOBMA%3E2.0.CO%3B2

That study is over 15 years old, and though we have increasing proof to the effectiveness of special regulations for gills (http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02755947.2014.1001929), many of those old attitudes still remain.

To the point, where should all of our wildest dreams come true, and bluegill sizes increase in all of the special regs. lakes that support trophy fish, will it matter? Bag limits will be smaller here, true. But will angler attitudes now, just as they did back in 1999, simply shift towards increased effort focused on a popular list of lakes, return trips, and effectively less limits…..yet all of trophy fish and many more of them? Both the path we’re on, and that path arrive at the same destination.

That’s why I remain a proponent of regulations similar to what Phil mentioned. 5 fish limits with 1-over a certain length limit. Only then can we not only reduce the numbers of fish taken, but reduce the overall size distribution of the ones that ARE taken. It’s difficult for most people to fathom, but five, 7″ bluegills when not being the only thing eaten, can effectively feed a family of 4. Fresh fish is a treat, and should be respected as such. Regulations are only part of the process, as prevailing thoughts, old ways, and resulting attitudes are the hardest change to effect.

Joel

Whoa, mega plunge. I still think Weather Underground has the best graphic of this like you’ve shown.

Joel

Mark’s right on. You need to get comfortable and familiar with the graph settings you’re using, then compare that with what you’re finding. I think another great way to figure this out is to drop a camera for instant visual confirmation.

Joel

Trevor Ellingson wrote:

How do the lithium batteries compare to the typical lead acid “brick” as far as longevity season to season? I seem to have the worst luck when it comes to batteries. Even being very diligent with maintaining it through the summer I’ve had to replace a few over the last few years. For me, $150 is a hard ticket to justify if they’re not more reliable in this aspect.

Hey Trevor – I couldn’t agree more, it’s alot to spend on a battery. Not to mention, there’s not a long product history here, so I myself was apprehensive at first. That said, the more I read on Lithium battery technology to begin with, the more impressed I am in it’s application for electronics like these.

This battery is a LiFePO4 version of Lithium Ion Technology. What does that mean to a fisherman? A minimum of 2,000 recharge cycles, up to 7,000 before charging gets you back to less than 80% of original capacity. In terms of years, that’s 5-7 years on average depending on how frequently you use it, with some science claiming its time durability to be greater than 10 years.

For me, that means as long as I charge it appropriately and don’t use it like a broomball stone, I’ll enjoy longer run times and an incredible weight savings for a long time before having to re-invest in newer battery technology. If you ask the guys at Marcum, or any other flasher mfr. for that matter, the vast majority of their service calls are battery related. After doing the research, I got one expecting not to have to worry about batteries as much again.

Joel

holmsvc wrote:

Has anyone been out fishing in there Hideout yet? I’m interested in getting one, but I need to see it and sit in it first I think. Is there enough room for 2 holes, a LX7, and a buddy heater?

Depends on how much distance you want between the holes in the ice! Plenty of room for the LX-7 and buddy heater out front, but this sounds like a personal preference question that you’d need to answer in person. The cottage is the next size up, and lots of guys like it as an incredibly spacious 1-man.

Joel

Trevor Ellingson wrote:

Nice to know. Picked mine up at the Blaine show and obviously haven’t been able to put it to work yet. Joel do you have a recommendation as to where to get a lithium battery from?

I’m using the Ice Force version – http://goo.gl/7XBDXl, though I know there to be various versions on Ebay and other online sites. The charger on Lithium batteries can be a concern in that they are different from standard lead-acid battery chargers. If you don’t have a charger up to the task, you’re only going to fill the Lithium batteries up halfway. Wherever you would buy, make sure you research the charger. I’ve been using the Ice Force battery and charger for 2 years and so far, so good.

Joel

You’ll need the big windpole setup on the back wall (upright in pic).

Joel

You’ll want the 1/16oz version for crappies, esp. if you’re fishing in deeper than 20 FOW. Shallower or negative ‘pies, I’d consider the 1/32oz size. You’ll like that jig!

Joel

No. You’d be best off selling what you have and investing new than the cost they’d have to charge for the skin. Good luck!

Joel

Go peep sight and never look back. My experience with open sights on my TC Encore and my CVA are not good. Big fiber optics fuzzy as I try to lock-in, and precision is hampered. I shoot pretty well with my Encore now after putting a Williams peep on it.

Joel

Eelpoutguy wrote:

screen envy!

Serious, Ben have you noticed if the 7 or 9 battery goes all day like a 6? and why are you on the internet when you have ice up there?

I’ve run an LX-7 with both lead-acid (standard) batteries and the Lithiums, and have no problem getting a full day on the ice with either. That said, I always carry a backup with just in case. Compared to the LX-6, I think the effect would be negligible.

Joel

Trip down memory lane….fun to see. We’ve had a blast and learned a pile along the way. Wondering how it’ll look in a few more years!

Joel

They made a big upgrade this year in respect to their customer service warranty forms online. Fill it out, ship it in, and get it back. No having to call or email to request an RMA# or anything. If you need service, get it there! http://marcumtech.com/customforms/index/warranty/

Joel

Dave – New for 2015, the fabric is free floating and not attached to the trim lock. This allows you to adjust how much slack in the fabric you want before screwing it down. Yes, you have to screw through the trim-lock, then thru the fabric to lock it down to the sled, but the holes are tiny and the effect is negligible.

Joel

Nice Fella wrote:

My favorite was Joel comparing the bluegill size to hubcaps and manhole covers. Now that’s quite a stretch, even for fishermen, (but I’ll be sure to use it myself in the future)!

Not the size, the shape! Truly big gills grow just as tall and sometimes even taller than they are long. But I’m still a fisherman, so I’m still prone to exaggeration.

Joel

I think that’s a good route. You can always screw it down later if you prefer, but I never had an issue with the older trim popping off provided it was properly secured in the first place.

Joel

smasher wrote:

Looking for a little help. I’m in the market for a new pair of Costas. My last pair, Jose w/580g blue mirror lenses, are currently resting in peace at the bottom of the Mississippi near wabasha. They left me way too early, only 3 months old.

I’ve been researching a new pair now. I have decided the blue mirror wasn’t my favorite for everyday. They didn’t allow enough light when driving. Also, more importantly, if fishing in shaded area they had to be removed to see anything at all. However, when out ice fishing on bright days…they were great!

Long story short is this….I’ve made up my mind that I do not want blue mirror again. I also know I want 580g lenses. I like the green mirror but am wondering if I’ll have similar problems as the blue mirror.

I know the correct answer is to have a few pairs with different lenses but for the time being I’m looking for pair #1 to be a versatile pair for general everyday use. Again, I’m leaning toward green mirror and possible silver mirror.

Looking for recommendations from fellow Ido and Costa fans!

I’m another green mirror guy. For much of the fishing I do, it offers the best contrast, esp. during low-light periods. On snow/ice, the blue mirror can be nice, especially during the longer days of March if it’s bright and sunny all day.

That said, it’s worth pointing out that blue, green, amber, or any other color in a Costa is an improvement from the other glasses I’ve ever worn. I’m in the same boat as you in that I’d like to make the best choice with that money, but don’t fret the decision too much!

Joel

I might say even less, as it bumps right up against the front of the sled so it should really only be the width of the tubing which is around an inch.

Joel

Phil is right on, this is the quickest way to get service!

http://www.rapala.com/content/rapala-contact-us/customer-contact-us.html?fdid=strikemaster-contact-us&id=11