Ice fishing in North America can take many forms and varying degrees of comfort. The costs involved are similar to fishing on the water.
At the basic level, you have a manual ice auger with a length of line and a bare hook with some bait.
At the other end of the spectrum, you have an electric auger that allows you to drill multiple holes quickly and efficiently. Instead of sitting outside and being exposed to the elements, you could make yourself comfortable inside a portable ice fishing shelter with all the modern conveniences possible. These may include a small
stove, carpets, television, bunk beds and a kitchen.
There are certain advantages and disadvantages with the outdoor versus indoor ice fishing experience.
The first big advantage of outdoor fishing is enjoying the fresh air. Being in a natural environment provides the opportunity to see local wildlife. There is also the opportunity to joke around and communicate with friends and family, as you can usually drill several holes in close proximity to each other.
The only downside to outdoor ice fishing is being outdoors and being exposed to the elements. If the sun suddenly disappears behind some clouds and the wind picks up a bit, things can get chilly quickly if you’re not dressed properly for it.
The main advantage of fishing inside a cabin is not what you think. The main advantage of fishing in a shelter, tent or other enclosure is increased visibility. Fishing in a dark enclosure suddenly opens up a whole new world. An aquatic world under the ice. If the interior of the shelter is completely dark, then the only light available is from the ice. That’s right. The ice lights up and you can see, depending on the depth, your lure or bait, and the fish that are approaching it.
The only downside to ice fishing with a shelter is the lack of mobility. You can’t run and shoot when looking for fish. That’s why it’s wise to choose your location carefully when choosing a place for your shelter.