Hardwater Walleye

I will assume that everyone knows that Hardwater is ice and yes you can catch a lot of walleye through the ice,

If you are going to fish Hardwater for walleye you have to prepare much differently than for spring, summer or fall walleye, The weather conditions are much more severe and the fishing can be dangerous if you are not prepared.

We’ll start with your clothes. Layering works the best. I would start with current lightweight long johns (tops and bottoms), then a flannel shirt and some loose fitting jeans. Over that I would wear a pair of lined bibs and a heavy jacket with a hood. I prefer Carhartt’s but there are a lot of other brands available. Check out Cabela’s winter clothing line. They carry just about anything you would want. Gloves are necessary but once the fish start biting you will be taking them off so you can pull the fish out of the hole. Oh yes, insulated boots with good traction are also a must.

If you can’t go with an experienced ice fisherman, I would strongly recommend that you go with an ice fishing charter. They will know where the fish are and if the water is safe enough for fishing. They will also provide the ice shanty, the poles, the lures and the fresh bait.

If you are a newbie and have a friend who is experienced they will most likely be glad to ask you along. If that is the case you will need your own pole and lures. Ice fishing poles are specialty poles and much different than what you are used to. Your friend can suggest a bait store or sports outlet where you can purchase what you need. Tell your friend that you will pick up the live bait so you can share the expenses. Make sure you get exactly what he tells you. If he says shiner minnows then get shiner minnows.

In our area (Lake Erie Islands) there are basically two areas to fish. Along the shoreline and around the islands. Those fishing close to the shoreline usually pull their gear to the area they are going to fish on a sled constructed just for that purpose. Those fishing further offshore usually hire an airboat to take them and their gear to their spot. Those fishing the islands have to fly in or get there by airboat.

Whatever method you decide on, be prepared for the cold. Make sure the ice is safe and be constantly aware of your situation. Ice can break up very quickly. Don’t be one of those that the Coast Guard has to rescue from the Hardwater.