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I've been ice fishing sporadically for the last decade or so. Never really had much gear other than a couple cheap ice rods and a second hand ancient auger. I got a decent auger for Christmas so I'm anxious to get out a bit more this year. What are some suggestions for basic budget gear everyone needs to have?
Fishinguy1212 you should add you location to your profile ...could be a deal on all your needs nearby .
Best advice I can give is safety first and a little at a time. Spread out the cost and get a few items each year. They will add up and you will zero in on what you need (want) during your experiences.
Some great suggestions here so far. I agree safety gear and warm clothing are the #1 most important items. Some other items that are handy include, in no particular order-4- bait pucks. Nearly every bait shop sells bait in cheap, flimsy containers (including us), and bait pucks are a cheap way to keep the bait safely. some people use chewing tobacco cans or altoids tins. both also work.
Just curious---What is a bait puck?
Wow guys, thanks so much for all the helpful info. I'm currently located in sw pa. Looks like an ice scoop and ice picks are a couple things I'll be getting right away. Are those auto inflating life vests good for ice fishing? I'll keep my eyes peeled for a used flasher maybe this spring, but I do mostly fish smaller shake lakes. If like to get down to deep creek lake in Maryland a few times this season. If the weather decides to turn back into January at some point. Thanks for all the info!