Ice Fishing Gear

[d1rtydeedz]

Where are you pros buying your ice fishing gear:  jigs, lures, poles, etc.  I'm an hour away from any cities and only have easy access to WalMart.  I worry about buying something online I won't use, or is not what I expected.  What I'm looking for is specific suggestions for in-store or online.  I'm sure many other newbies would appreciate it as well.  In return, I promise to praise your names during each catch I get with your suggested lure.  Your welcome.

[Baetis62]

Where do you fish and for what?

[d1rtydeedz]

Where do you fish and for what?

I suppose that could help.  I plan on hitting DeWeese for trout and smallies, and 11 Mile for both trout and pike.

[Baetis62]

I like to shop online even though I live in the front range.  You can get stuff on sale or find coupon codes without the hassle of climbing in the truck but if you have access to a quality shop it's always worth your time to visit.  FishUsa is good for nearly everything from terminal tackle to rods, reels, raps and other hardware lures.  Your Bobbers Down and Custom Jigs & Spins have good quality tungsten jigs, finkees, ratsos and slender spoons.  Use the search function above for specific feedback on gear for your budget, target, species and locales.  I think you'll find many guys will spend more $ if they are looking for the lighter panfish/walleye rods.  Customs like Thorne Bros, DH and TUCR can run considerably more than $100 and are aesthically pleasing but for trout or SMB use the search function here to find a good match for your budget...HT, Frabill, Fenwick, St. Croix all make some good rods but do your homework here.  I've never fished DW but would guess a L or ML rod of good quality would serve you well.  I fish 11 Mile 2x times every year but have not figured out that place.  Some have but more find it a humbling place.  Bigger fish in there...maybe a M rod, jaw jacker rig or even a tip up if you like to chase Pike.  The search function here is the most valuable tool you can tap into for feedback on products and current deals.  You will find considerable savings by monitoring the sight from time to time.  Use the site sponsors if you are able.  Good Luck!  Welcome!

[Unclegillhunter]

I like to shop online even though I live in the front range.  You can get stuff on sale or find coupon codes without the hassle of climbing in the truck but if you have access to a quality shop it's always worth your time to visit.  FishUsa is good for nearly everything from terminal tackle to rods, reels, raps and other hardware lures.  Your Bobbers Down and Custom Jigs & Spins have good quality tungsten jigs, finkees, ratsos and slender spoons.  Use the search function above for specific feedback on gear for your budget, target, species and locales.  I think you'll find many guys will spend more $ if they are looking for the lighter panfish/walleye rods.  Customs like Thorne Bros, DH and TUCR can run considerably more than $100 and are aesthically pleasing but for trout or SMB use the search function here to find a good match for your budget...HT, Frabill, Fenwick, St. Croix all make some good rods but do your homework here.  I've never fished DW but would guess a L or ML rod of good quality would serve you well.  I fish 11 Mile 2x times every year but have not figured out that place.  Some have but more find it a humbling place.  Bigger fish in there...maybe a M rod, jaw jacker rig or even a tip up if you like to chase Pike.  The search function here is the most valuable tool you can tap into for feedback on products and current deals.  You will find considerable savings by monitoring the sight from time to time.  Use the site sponsors if you are able.  Good Luck!  Welcome!

Except for The rod makers I have delt with all of the above mentioned. addition Cabelas and 13 fishing, also reeds never had a problem. Have had to return a couple of items seems like the all the orders come with return labels.
Keep it safe! JDL

[stinkyfingers]

It's likely enough that the equipment you buy now when you're just starting out is not going to be the same stuff when you refine your style. My call would be to get some mid-level rods and reels online until you know for sure your target species and techniques and then get the best you can afford. Get your knots down cold. Talk to people. Ask questions just like you're doing. The articles in InFisherman are mostly BS. Guys on this forum know their stuff but can be sort of lock-jawed.
  As Baetis says, a JawJacker is useful for pike at the Mile.

[d1rtydeedz]

Went to Bass Pro today to pick up a "few" things.  It's amazing how quickly some ice fishing gear can add up.  $200.00 later and I have a decent assortment of jigs and lures.  The fever is taking over.