bozeman area ice fishing

[nicgilpin]

hello,
I am a bozeman resident and i have never gone ice fishing (idk why im kinda nervous of ice) and im feeling a bit couped up lately and wanna try my luck at ice fishing.... im just curiou about the ice thickness around the bozeman area ponds (specifically the one next to the mall). just wondering if anyone in here fishes these local ponds and what the conditions are. also, what do you use when ice fishing? i have a ice pole and plenty of tackle, just not sure if you use different bait etc.

i know i sound like a total noob but any help would be appreciated.
Thanks!

[PablitoPescador]

That mall pond is a blast for ice fishing. Lots of bluegill and some bass. Not sure of the ice conditions as I don’t live there anymore but I’m sure after this recent cold spell there’s plenty to fish on. Take a spud bar out and make sure it’s solid. Wax worms or maggots on a small tungsten jig will do the trick. Pm me if you wanna talk more ice fishing

[GottaBeThick]

Pond by Map is a great time.

[cmark4454]

Went out yesterday and the ice was 5-6" thick at Bozeman pond. 

[Wapiti406]

What all these guys have said.  Don't be afraid to talk with folks at Bob Wards or Sportsmans.  They can point you in the right place.

[silage]

I’ve been out the last 2 days at Bozo Pond with my little boys.  There is about 6-8 inches of ice and the fishing was good ‘for kids’.  Chartreuse Ratso tipped with maggots were great for rainbows and we caught a mix of bass, perch and gills on a small spoon tipped with maggots in 16 ft of water near the dog swimming area.  Have fun and take your young ones - they’ll love it!