Dress in layers to stay warm, comfortable while ice-fishing
LINCOLN — Staying warm and comfortable while on the ice will go a long way toward ensuring you have
a fun outing icefishing. The conditions will determine exactlyhow you willwant to dress, but, regardless, you should dress in
layers. The reason?You’ll wantto stay warm, andyou’ll need toavoid sweating.Getting set upfor fishing – or
moving to newfishing areas onthe ice – is whereyou can work upa sweat. This includescarryingor dragging yourgear onto the ice,drilling holes and
setting up a shelter.Activity makes you sweat, even on frigid days on the ice.In the cold, sweat can lower your bodytemperature and lead to hypothermia.
You should lose or loosen layers during periods of activity then put them back on when you are finished. Wear layers of clothing that are loosefitting
and quickly can be removed.They will trap warm air against your body. For a first layer to put on, wear a wool, synthetic or moisture-wicking
base. Avoid cotton as a first layer as it holds moisture, and moisture against the skin on a cold day can lower the bodytemperature. Cotton or fleece can beworn as a second layer, but wool will
provide warmth even when damp. Anouter layer could be a waterproof, windproofparka, bib overalls or coveralls.Thick socks and a good pair of insulated
boots will keep your feet warmeven though you’re standing on ice allday. It’s best that the boots not be tootight. More room in the toe will allow
you a chance to wiggle your toes tokeep them warm. Wear a warm hat or cap to cover thetop of your head andears. Pair it with a
fleece neck gaiterfor extra protection on windy days.Anglers need touse their bare handsat some point — to
bait jigs, tie knots, or unhook fish — but always should have at least a couple of pairs of gloves or mittens. They don’t
need to be tightfitting. That way, they can be flung off quickly if a bait needs to be changed or a fish needs to be unhooked. Dress warm, be safe and have fun on the ice this winter.
For more on icefishing safety, watch a video at outdoornebraska.gov/ howtofish. Anglers can learn the basics of icefishing or pick up a few new tips from
experienced anglers at virtual Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in Jan. 16 and 19. Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Fish and Game Association
will host the classroom clinics via Zoom. Register to attend one or both sessions by going to the calendar event entries at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov.
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