Ice Fishing

Ice Fishing Gear Essentials

Fishing season doesn't have to end when temperatures start to go below freezing. Reel in a big one with ice fishing gear from DICK'S Sporting Goods.

Be prepared for your next ice fishing trip with ice fishing essentials.

Check out ice fishing rods, ice fishing reels and ice fishing combos.

The perfect fishing reel doesn't mean much if you can't break beneath the icy surface. Drill in with precision with ice augers.

Know when you've got a bite with the help of a tip up which sends up a flag when triggered so you don't have to watch the rod.

Stay warm while you spend hours out in the elements with ice fishing apparel, ice fishing gloves, ice fishing shelters, portable heaters and more.

Shop ice fishing gear from top brands like Clam and Eskimo.

Looking for more? Check out the full collection of fishing gear from DICK'S.

How to Pack for Your Ice Fishing Trip

Use these guidelines for choosing your ice fishing gear. Remember to bring along food, drinks, blankets and even a portable grill, along with these essentials:

• Look for ice fishing clothing that is both windproof and waterproof yet breathable. Details like plush fleece lining adds soft warmth while pockets and zippered compartments let you easily stash away tools and small essentials.
• Haul your gear with ease with an ice sled.
• You can find ice fishing shelters designed for one or multiple people. Look for a sturdy, durable construction that is mildew and fade-resistant. Select an ice shelter that rolls up into a carry bag for simple transport. Choose a shelter with accessible areas to fish in comfort.
• Anglers can select from manual/hand augers or power augers. Power augers commonly run on gasoline, propane or batteries, while manual drills are lightweight and more compact in design—ideal for packing or traveling. Powered drills, however, offer better speed for effectively boring into ice.
• If you're opting for artificial bait, you should select a rod with fast action. The tips of these rods are sensitive to even the lightest bites, while the rest of the blank remains rigid for strength while fighting fish. Medium-action rods are ideal for finesse jigging or dead sticking. These rods flex in the middle and absorb shock from aggressive movements.
• Blanks are typically composed of graphite, fiberglass or composites. Graphite blanks are lightweight and sensitive, while fiberglass is more durable in freezing temperatures. If you want a more pronounced feel on hits, choose a graphite blank. If you're using a bobber as a hit indicator, opt for fiberglass.