Hello everyone!
First post on the Shanty. I grew up ice fishing Iowa and Minnesota. In 2003 I moved to Texas. Needless to say my ice fishing is severely limited. I go with a good buddy every other few years in Canada but I truly miss it. I want to find a lake/res within driving distance of Ft. Worth so I can take 1 trip every late winter to chase pike with tip ups. I absolutely love watching flags pop. I have no equipment, gave it to my buddy when I moved, but I can buy more. I'm sure my wife will LOVE that idea. For my own sanity, I want a place I drive to in about 10-13 hours. Sleeping arrangements....well i'll have to figure that out later. I'm trying to get a handle on the pike in your state. I had absolutely no clue you guys had fish pushing 30+ pounds. I know they are not popular among all fisherman and to each their own. But I enjoy the chase.
I'd love to introduce this to my son, who is a freshman. I feel ashamed he's never been ice fishing. I'm really looking for lakes with potential to catch the big girls. 20 pounds plus.
If anyone has any suggestions, i'd love to hear them. Stay safe and healthy!
Mitch