Ice Fishing Rigs 

During the winter, some areas permit the use of two fishing lines for ice fishing. In this case it is wise to keep two or three lightweight rigs with you at all times. Designed to be used with live bait, there are several forms of tip-ups from which to choose. Balancing types with free-running spools, flag-waving types that rest over the hole, and spring-loaded pop-up varieties that actually sit right in the water are only a few of the many kinds of equipment that are available. Lightweight and compact rigs are good choices since ice fishing often demands lots of moving around to locate fish.

Line weights should not be less than ten pound-test as the sharp edges of the fishing hole can cause considerable damage to the line. You may, however, wish to use lighter leader material to aid in a more natural movement of the live bait, but take care when it is exposed to the sharp edges of the hole during the play.

Terminal rigs using live baits can be singles, doubles, or triples. Double and triple lead-offs require the use of a sinker or weight at the very bottom with six- to 12-inch lead-offs spaced a couple of feet apart directly above. Single rigs may have the hook and minnow below with the sinker above, however, these too can be rigged like the others. Ideally, hooks should be short shanked, small, and allow the minnow freedom to move naturally.

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