Tips for a Fun-Filled Day of Ice Fishing with Your Kid

So, you want to go ice fishing, but you don't have a sitter for the little one. Don't sweat it. With a little planning it could end up being the experience of a lifetime.

First of all, make sure the area you will be adventuring to is safe. Hopefully you are already familiar with the area and know the conditions of the ice, but if you don't, ask the locals. Bait shops, coffee shops, or better yet, the lake access parking lot are good places to get info from fellow anglers. When you talk to people let them know you are taking a child and want to know how safe it is, not where their honey-holes are. Most fishermen would be more than happy to help you out.

Don't worry about taking the kids fishing for trophy fish right away. Start somewhere you know they have a good chance of catching a lot of fish. You might like sitting in the cold for hours to catch a big walleye, but children don't have that level or patience. Let them play around with a school of bluegills for a little while. If you have a shanty even better. If they can see the under-ice action they'll see what they have to do to get the fish to bite. Once they get the hang of it you can introduce them to some bigger species and the excitement that comes from seeking trophies.

Dress for success. A cold kid is a miserable one so make sure they are warm and comfortable. Dress in layers so clothes can be shed if they get warmed up. And being that you are standing on ice, make sure they have good boots. If you can keep their feet, head, and hands warm the rest is easy. And use caution if you choose to use a portable heater. Keep your shanty well ventilated and don't leave your child alone for one second.

Pack snacks and drinks. Even if you are just planning a short trip it will distract them for a while if the action is slow. A Thermos of hot cocoa and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich will usually put a smile on almost any child's face. It'll help keep them warm and comfortable also.

Keep the video games home. For one, the cold isn't good for the screens or the batteries. And there is always the chance that it could be dropped in the hole and then the trip is basically over. A small FM radio will provide some entertainment if needed, but stay away from the mp3 players with headphones. Ice fishing is a great chance to sit and chat, and headphones make that difficult.

A well planned trip could provide a child with a lifetime of memories. But chances are if they don't enjoy the first time they may have no interest in going again. Spend some time in the outdoors with your kid today and they'll be thanking you forever.