Walleye

What is Tip-Up Fishing?

What is Tip-Up Fishing?

What is Tip-Up Fishing? The sight of countless flags and indicators splashing color across the white expanse of the ice is one of my favorite things about ice fishing the Iowa Great Lakes. It’s a sight to see when you get a big group of dedicated fishermen fishing with tip-up lines. To me, this is […]

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First Ice

First Ice By Ben Leal Ahhhh…nothing like your first trip out to the ice. Days prior to your first trip you go through the list, Vexilar battery…check; auger…check; load new line on your ice rods…check; ice jigs and bait…check; ice shack…check; lantern and heater tested…check; everything seems to be in order and ready to go. […]

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Ice Fishing Rivers

Ice Fishing Rivers in Iowa

Ice Fishing Rivers in Iowa There are only a couple of rivers in Iowa that you might consider ice fishing; those along the east and west borders of our state. Including, the Mississippi River along the eastern border and the Missouri River along the west. “There really isn’t the habitat for ice fishing on the […]

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Three Panfish Lures for Iowa Ice Cold Water Fish Tactics

Cold Water Fish Tactics

Cold Water Fish Tactics Cold-man Winter is knocking on the door here in Iowa, but don’t give up on the open water yet.  Even though ice fishing, hunting and football are grappling with our time during November. There are still opportunities to get out and catch a few more fish before you will need an […]

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The Irresistible Allure of Devils Lake

The Irresistible Allure of Devils Lake

Hooked on Ice: The Irresistible Allure of Devils Lake The answer to “Why ice fish?” is the same as when asked why do Americans own so many rifles, pistols and guns.  Answer:  Because we can!  It’s in the Constitution (the gun part, not ice fishing), but it’s in the personal constitution of so many diehard […]

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Essential Gear for Iowa Ice Fishermen 

Essential Gear for Iowa Ice Fishermen

Essential Gear for Iowa Ice Fishermen Jigs & Bait  When the lakes freeze over in Iowa, ice fishing season begins, and having the right tackle can make the difference between a slow day and a full bucket. One of the most essential pieces of gear is a good selection of jigs. These small lures can […]

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5 Reasons to Ice Fish in Minnesota 

5 Reasons to Ice Fish in Minnesota 

5 Reasons to Ice Fish in Minnesota  What happens when you combine more than 10,000 lakes full of fish with a state that produces consistent below freezing temperatures? You get the recipe for ice fishing of epic proportions. Throw in dozens of full-service resorts, outfitters, and sleeper fish house businesses that cater to ice anglers […]

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Preparing for Turkey Season Providing Hope Through the Outdoors

Providing Hope Through the Outdoors

Providing Hope Through the Outdoors  The roosted gobbler startled Josh Herman; it was the first gobble of the morning, and Josh had never heard such a sound. He came to full alert as his guide and friend made the first call of the morning. Josh was experiencing his first turkey hunt while bound to his […]

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Early Ice Fishing Tactics

Early Ice Fishing Tactics

Early Ice Fishing Tactics At the time of this writing, Mother Nature had given Iowans a taste of what is to come. Daytime temperatures were peaking in the lower sixties and upper fifties, and northern reaches of the state saw nighttime temps dip to the mid-thirties. Ice anglers began contemplating the coming season.   Safety First […]

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Reasons why you Should Still be Fishing

Reasons Why You Should Still Be Fishing

Reasons why you Should Still be Fishing The fall months in Iowa are very special for those that love the outdoors.  Hunting seasons have begun and more will soon open for different species. However, as an Iowa Sportsman I turn to the water just as much or more during these late season months to fish.  […]

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