ice ice baby

[Adrenalinerush]

Get ready for the hard water boys! Based on the forecast I think we will have safe ice on some of the smaller northern impoundments by next weekend!

Jim

[Jigman13]

That's ambitious... I like it!

[Andrushkin33]

My prediction by Christmas still stands ..... and looking better every day. If all is good I be on ice next weekend but in NY though.

Eddy,

You hear that buddy.... Christmas .....

Andre

[Adrenalinerush]

10 day forecast Vernon
Tuesday low 25
Wednesday low 13
Thursday HIGH of 21 low of 10
Friday HIGH of 24 low 10

Sounds like ICE




.

[Chrisper4694]

Depends on the winds, and also the main lake water temps were still mid 40s the weekend. I'll take anything better than last year, though we def made the best of it. Plenty of good open water fishing too, I'm not concerned...always an option here in nj, always!

[Skunk City]

As of Tuesday afternoon, main lake of Hopatcong was 42 degrees. Saw a small pond on the way there that was skim iced shoreline to shoreline at 2pm, always a good early season sign. Being out on the ice before New Year would be great :D.

[Adrenalinerush]

Depends on the winds, and also the main lake water temps were still mid 40s the weekend. I'll take anything better than last year, though we def made the best of it. Plenty of good open water fishing too, I'm not concerned...always an option here in nj, always!

I not talking Hopatcong Chris, I'm talking smaller bodies of water. I have seen skim ice on a couple of real small ponds already. If the forecast is correct all the smaller shallow ponds in my area will be fishable by Saturday. FLAG UP!

[Skunk City]

P.S.: Chris, don't think we forgot about you eating that hat buddy!!!

[Mikey topaz]

P.S.: Chris, don't think we forgot about you eating that hat buddy!!!

HAH!!!!! Ill be out lookin thursday at my first ice spot think 3 inches by then hopefully

[Rich196]

Sorry guy's I heard it's gonna be in the mid 50's and low 60's from next Wednesday on for the rest of the winter. Oh wait, that that's what I was dreaming of the other night...LOL I'm not a ice fisherman, but if we get ice this year, I'm gonna have to come check it out when you guy's are out there fishing. BE SAFE GUYS!!!

[bigboy5522]

Bring on the ice!!! Cant wait!

[catfishonthelake]

I had a dream last night that Skunk City Rob and Fast Eddie were catching walleye on 6-inches of black somewhere in Sussex County and wouldn't post the location or tell anyone. Weird. :confused:

[Chrisper4694]

I ain't fishing no damn dink ponds just because there's ice on them when the good waters remain open! Bring all out ice or Mother Nature can keep it!!

[acaravaglia]

I'm ready

[Skunk City]

I had a dream last night that Skunk City Rob and Fast Eddie were catching walleye on 6-inches of black somewhere in Sussex County and wouldn't post the location or tell anyone. Weird. :confused:

That wasn't a dream, more like a premonition :).

[Adrenalinerush]

I ain't fishing no damn dink ponds just because there's ice on them when the good waters remain open! Bring all out ice or Mother Nature can keep it!!

Ya your right, there no big fish in those little lakes anyway;)

[NJSquatch]

Skim ice in the skinny water on da cong

[briansnat]

I saw a skim of ice on some small ponds a few mornings this week.

[Jigman13]

So glad I bought a skim ice suit, too. It hooks into high powered drones that hover you over the ice. You're in trouble boys!

[acabtp]

LOL I'm not a ice fisherman

don't worry. there are 2 types of fishermen:

those who love ice fishing
those who haven't tried it yet

[23cardinal]

don't worry. there are 2 types of fishermen:

those who love ice fishing
those who haven't tried it yet


On that vein.... I've never been. Hopefully someone takes pity. Lol

[icebadger]

hold on fellas lets not jump the gun.nothing wrong with fishing "dink ponds" please remember safety first.if you go out on early ice bring picks and wear a pfd and don't go alone.icebadger love ice fishing and is very anxious to get out on the hard water but just remember 4" of ice will hold a 200lb person,that includes your gear.you have love ones that want to see you come home dry and safe.i already did my ceremonial ice dance. lets hope for a good ice season,i hope to see you out there :cool:

[Delawareriver]

hold on fellas lets not jump the gun.nothing wrong with fishing "dink ponds" please remember safety first.if you go out on early ice bring picks and wear a pfd and don't go alone.icebadger love ice fishing and is very anxious to get out on the hard water but just remember 4" of ice will hold a 200lb person,that includes your gear.you have love ones that want to see you come home dry and safe.i already did my ceremonial ice dance. lets hope for a good ice season,i hope to see you out there :cool:

Great post. Spud bar as well, can't tell you many times a spud kept me dry and everytime I've gotten wet was when I got lazy and didn't spud. No ice Is safe but if you spud, have ice picks and a float suit/pfd I can guarantee you will get home. Extra pair of dry clothes I leave in the truck is always welcome as well

[pacrags]

this thread has made me search you tube for DIY tip ups and jaw jackers and check prices for augers on amazon ... good thing there is time to adjust my christmas list ... living in mercer county i have some time to do some more research before the ice is thick enough around here, but i am pretty sur ei am going to give ice fishing a try this year

any tips for a newbie is appreciated - and will be sure to put at the top of my gear list the safety items already mentioned

[Jigman13]

Keep your eyes out for ice meet and greets. Solid way to learn the ropes. Ask experienced guys if you can tag along once we have ice. Most are willing to teach. I only started 3+ yrs ago and it's one of my fav ways of fishing. Had a good teacher and learned a lot from others, too. A LOT!!!

Commence ice dancing!

[Mikey topaz]

this thread has made me search you tube for DIY tip ups and jaw jackers and check prices for augers on amazon ... good thing there is time to adjust my christmas list ... living in mercer county i have some time to do some more research before the ice is thick enough around here, but i am pretty sur ei am going to give ice fishing a try this year

any tips for a newbie is appreciated - and will be sure to put at the top of my gear list the safety items already mentioned

Save your money dont pay no attenttion to those automatic fishermens jawjackers . First year i went nutz buyin all those and were useless, you kinda gotta figure out fir starting out if you wanna fish for bigger fish with big baits or you just dont care what you catch as long as its action.... evreyones diffrent my self i have five ht lakers its a beefy large tip up for Bigger fish muskie pike etc. then i have five frabill acrtic fire low profile tip up for eyes bass pickerl perch the usual smaller tip up i rig em with 20 lb fluro and the bigger ones 50-60 fluro. Starting out id pick urself up a 6-8 inch auger couple tipups and try jiggin and see what your prefrence is some guys all they do is jig. As jeremy said any questions be happy to help

[Chrisper4694]

You can try ice fishing for next to nothing. Plenty of guys with spare tip ups who could punch a few extra holes. You could grab a 10 dollar ice rod and stick an ul trout reel on it if you want to try jigging. The cheap tip ups work fine if you want to buy them, just might not last through a lot of use...but with our ice record you won't have to worry about that.

[briansnat]

You can try ice fishing for next to nothing. Plenty of guys with spare tip ups who could punch a few extra holes. You could grab a 10 dollar ice rod and stick an ul trout reel on it if you want to try jigging. The cheap tip ups work fine if you want to buy them, just might not last through a lot of use...but with our ice record you won't have to worry about that.
On popular lakes you only need a jigging rod to get started. And a bucket or chair to sit on and poach the abandoned holes already cut by people who left for the day or moved on to a different spot. An ice auger will run you about 50 bucks and is a great investment. A spud will run you about 20 bucks but is lot more work.

When I started ice fishing I used an axe to cut through the ice. That works when the ice is thin. Once you get above 6 - 8 inches the axe won't work anymore.

But the best way to get started cheaply is to hook up with a veteran ice angler. They often have extra tip ups that you can use and I'm sure they will lend you some.

If you are on black ice or ice covered snow, a pair of spikes are also a good investment. Kahtoola MicroSpikes or Hillsound Trail Crampons are ideal for that.

[Adrenalinerush]

On that vein.... I've never been. Hopefully someone takes pity. Lol

I wouldn't mind showing you the ropes. I see you live in Haskell, I ice fish a like in that area that I know you fish from reading your posts. Shoot me a PM.

Jim

[bunker dunker]

ICE!!!! DID SOMEONE SAY ICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i to am ready but lets be smart and safe.wishing all my sweet water friends the best and safe ice season ever.
looking forward to seeing some of you out there.

[Delawareriver]

My spot is capped and solid but rain put a hurting on the edges, I'll be out Friday afternoon I'm guessing

[Mark B.]

Yes, be careful out there: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMRQb-RRt5g

[Adrenalinerush]

Thursday weather in Vernon high of 20 and low of 7, Friday high of 24 and low 14, ice, ice baby!:D

[Jigman13]

Time to hose off the gear I suppose and start tying up leaders... Oooooo weeeeee! FLAAAAAAGGGGGG!!!!

[Andrushkin33]

Yes my friends,

The time has come to drill some holes and get a lots of fish. Nothing better than first ice we all know that. Be safe out there and well you know where to find me this weekend.

Andre

[Jigman13]

Yes my friends,

The time has come to drill some holes and get a lots of fish. Nothing better than first ice we all know that. Be safe out there and well you know where to find me this weekend.

Andre

Face down in a frozen parking lot covered in pickerel snot? Hahaha! Jk andruski... FLLLAAAAGGGG!

[Andrushkin33]

Face down in a frozen parking lot covered in pickerel snot? Hahaha! Jk andruski... FLLLAAAAGGGG!

Lol....that sounds about right.... only I probably be passed out at Eddies car since it usually the only one open. lol

[Chrisper4694]

damn you guys...looks like you were right this year. *ice crap dusted off*

[Eskimo]

.


Here's a totally irrelevant post:
Here's a video of people ice fishing in China. Seems like the ice could not hold the weight of all these people as it starts breaking up under them and causing someone to fall into the ice cold water.


http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=505_1480834621


.

[Mikey topaz]

Just got back from a little ride......looked at a few spots evreywhere seemed to have 1-1/2. My first ice spot i got on and walked out a few steps

[Skunk City]

Face down in a frozen parking lot covered in pickerel snot? Hahaha! Jk andruski... FLLLAAAAGGGG!

LOL classic Andre!

[Andrushkin33]

LOL classic Andre!

Its only funny cause its true ...... lol

Andre

[FASTEDDIE29]

Hahaha!!!! Andre YOU SUCK!!! Lol!!! Kidding........maybe!

Ohhhhhhh, it's coming wether you like it or not! Looks like a possible flash freeze situation in most of NJ For the end of the week. Let's see what happens and be careful most importantly! I've went threw before and don't wish that pain on anyone! Buddy system, ropes, picks, float suit or flotation device! They're all must haves when venturing out onto early ice and "ALL ICE!!!" I'm really hoping for a better season than last! Good luck to all and be careful on your scouting missions!!!!

TIGHT LINEZ and FLAGS for ALL!!!!! YEA BUDDY!!!!!!!!!

[icebadger]

great post eskimo,looks like the googans come out in the winter as well :(good reminder to be safe out there any ice can be dangerous.

[thmyorke1]

My experience with ice fishing so far

Threw some rocks on a half frozen river and it made a cool sound.

That was Sunday when it was snowing. And I saw a heron on the ice figuring out the situation (tbh it probably knows more about fishing than I do)

[saxmatt]

My experience with ice fishing so far

Threw some rocks on a half frozen river and it made a cool sound.


This is why I won't be using my new auger near boat launches.

[Delawareriver]

This is why I won't be using my new auger near boat launches.

Haha, same stuff year after year. Good luck matt hope you find your 50 this season, sure I'll see you out on one of the lakes in the near future

[Andrushkin33]

OK boys and girls.

It is official. I was on safe ice last night at 2am and surprisingly it was not y bathtub.

Yes I couldn't wait till weekend. Yes I know I am nuts. No I was not alone, had a buddy with me at all times. No I was not drunk (I know that's a surprise). No I didn't catch anything.

Only issue I had was actually finding a safe ice closer to shore. Everything 5 feet out had a solid 3 to 4 inches of ice.

On a side note I found out that I really need to drop some damn weight.

Be safe everyone and get ready for this weekend.

Andre

[Delawareriver]

Not surprising after the rain we had yesterday morning. It really messed up the ice closest to the shore

[NJSquatch]

For the uninitiated this is a good ice fishing safety resource.

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/ice/index.html

Remember there is no such thing as safe ice! There are a million and 1 variables that can affect the ice thickness within any given lake (springs, weeds, wind, snow cover, bird activity, dock bubblers, etc).

Personally I don't like going out on anything less than 6" because you never know how much ice is under that next step.

Be safe out there!

[briansnat]

A short video that can save your life. Hopefully none of us will never need to try it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gOW8ZaYqHA

[Matt_Conway71]

Great!

[Esox Luciano]

Save your money dont pay no attenttion to those automatic fishermens jawjackers . First year i went nutz buyin all those and were useless, you kinda gotta figure out fir starting out if you wanna fish for bigger fish with big baits or you just dont care what you catch as long as its action.... evreyones diffrent
Spot on there Mikey...with the everyone's* different* part. For just getting started on the ice, I'd say go simple like Crisper & Briansnat shared. Just land some fish, keep busy, & most importantly make an enjoyable experience. That'll make you come back, then you can decide what's your preferred style of fishing on the hard stuff. Personally, the 1st fish I landed on the ice was on a homemade slammer/automatic-fisherman. Banked perch, crappie, bass, pickerel, and a muskie on it as well. Sturdy, tried & true. Costed me less than $5 to make! Seems like any you buy should come with a fragile warning and the poles I've seen used are too parabolic with not enough backbone to actually set the hook. If you don't mind me asking Mikey, what problems did you have with yours?

A short video that can save your life. Hopefully none of us will never need to try it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gOW8ZaYqHA
Definitely don't want to need to use these methods. But great to know. Can never be too prepared when it comes to ice knowledge & safety and after all else fails, lessons from this video can be the difference between another future trip or death. Thanks for sharing. Viva la NJFers!!!

[Delawareriver]

Anyone out today? I would be if I wasn't working and headed to the Christmas party tonight

[fishingbuddies]

Do you guys think it will be safe to go out this weekend? The temps are supposed to be in the 40s and 50s for Saturday and Sunday. I was thinking more Sunday morning if its snowing in the morning before the rains arrive?

[NJSquatch]

Do you guys think it will be safe to go out this weekend? The temps are supposed to be in the 40s and 50s for Saturday and Sunday. I was thinking more Sunday morning if its snowing in the morning before the rains arrive?

I would give it more time

[Chrisper4694]

in all seriousness, the wind can do a number on fresh forming ice skim to 2"...i just got word that the wind today really messed up the ice on some popular early ice lakes that were looking really good to go soon (and now might no longer be).

[Delawareriver]

Yeah don't think any of the bigger lakes even the ones the freeze early will be able to hold up with the wind and warm up this weekend. Some smaller ponds I know will be OK, got one that is protected from the wind that I'll be checking out tomorrow

[icebadger]

i checked out one of my old local ponds and it had only 2" not safe, the ice had alot of bubble chambers in it maybe the warmer temps will help to fill them and refreeze at night.the shores are going to take a hit with the pending rain.i also drove by splitrock and it was wide open with small white caps. some parts of da cong are locked up but the main lake was open.we still need a little time.please be careful out on your scouting missions a spud bar and measuring device are a must.

[Adrenalinerush]

9 degrees in Vernon right now, there are places to fish tomorrow but Sunday is gonna mess things up, be safe, I always have a rope in my sled, space yourself when your walking out and don't fish alone this early in the season, flag up!

[Delawareriver]

It has begun gentleman. Worked an 18 hour shift yesterday so don't have to be back till 930. Wanted to be at my spot at sunrise but not getting to bed till 3 plus the -2 real feel kept me in bed for an extra hour. Anyways only had an hour but managed a few gills, perch, and crappie
http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae342/delawareriver/Mobile%20Uploads/20161216_075426.jpg (http://s986.photobucket.com/user/delawareriver/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161216_075426.jpg.html)

[acabtp]

It has begun gentleman. Worked an 18 hour shift yesterday so don't have to be back till 930. Wanted to be at my spot at sunrise but not getting to bed till 3 plus the -2 real feel kept me in bed for an extra hour. Anyways only had an hour but managed a few gills, perch, and crappie
http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae342/delawareriver/Mobile%20Uploads/20161216_075426.jpg (http://s986.photobucket.com/user/delawareriver/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161216_075426.jpg.html)

http://www.njfishing.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gifhttp://www.njfishing.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

yeah man nicely done! be safe out there have fun. i think i'm about to head out to the garage and dust my gear off

[Andrushkin33]

Very very nice.

With another good ice making day and night tonight, just have to get out tomorrow before the rain comes calling. Will be out come 6am.

Andre

[fishingbuddies]

Trying to get my buddies to head out this weekend. No takers yet. :mad:

How thick was the ice? how far up north are you relative to 80 and 15?

[Delawareriver]

Trying to get my buddies to head out this weekend. No takers yet. :mad:

How thick was the ice? how far up north are you relative to 80 and 15?
I had 4" and I'm south of 80 but it's the perfect scenario. Small pond, protected from wind and southern exposure plus has some elevation. Always freezes finstead every year. I don't know if I would go out tomorrow, snow on top of ice then rain, wet snow will be heavy on thin ice isn't good. Makeep sure your spud your way out in the morning

[Mikey topaz]

Just got off the ice with a few of the boyz few pike landed.... first fish mine was a 34-35 incher. got 3" over there now should be easy 4. By tomorrow i would think

[tycomps]

For the uninitiated this is a good ice fishing safety resource.

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/ice/index.html

Remember there is no such thing as safe ice! There are a million and 1 variables that can affect the ice thickness within any given lake (springs, weeds, wind, snow cover, bird activity, dock bubblers, etc).

Personally I don't like going out on anything less than 6" because you never know how much ice is under that next step.

Be safe out there!

good read! now someone post a link on why I SHOULD try ice fishing! :p

[Delawareriver]

good read! now someone post a link on why I SHOULD try ice fishing! :p

What else ate you gonna do during winter?

[Andrushkin33]

good read! now someone post a link on why I SHOULD try ice fishing! :p

Simple. So you can see my definition of ice fishing. LoL. You will never
look at fishing with same eyes again.

But in all seriousness good times with good peoples.

Andre

[FASTEDDIE29]

good read! now someone post a link on why I SHOULD try ice fishing! :p

Fish eat all year long. So why stop fishing? Just because it's chilly out? Hell to the NO!!! Come on out man! It's seriously a great time just about everytime!!!

[Bruce Litton]

Saw 50's early next week, hope not. Guess small ponds are safe now.

[bigfishy]

good read! now someone post a link on why I SHOULD try ice fishing! :p

I second that thought!!! other than partying and chillin wit peeps i dont see the draw?? fishing glory shots are cool but im not a hand liner type a guy....:confused:

[Jigman13]

I second that thought!!! other than partying and chillin wit peeps i dont see the draw?? fishing glory shots are cool but im not a hand liner type a guy....:confused:

Get a 40" musky or a pig pike on an jigging outfit and you'll sing a different tune haha... you should come out with us and give it whirl!

[Esox Luciano]

fishing glory shots are cool but im not a hand liner type a guy....:confused:

Should give the slammer/automatic-fisherman a try. Fish will be hooked and fighting before you even get to the hole, and its awesome to see your fishing rod going crazy while running towards it!

I know Mikey's got some crappy ones he doesn't need.:rolleyes::D

[bigfishy]

Get a 40" musky or a pig pike on an jigging outfit and you'll sing a different tune haha... you should come out with us and give it whirl!

A jiggin setup makes perfect sense to me!!!but cant wrap myself around usin tipups...I totally understand the need, to cover more water and diff depths at the same time but dont think ill ever wanna hand line fish....i dont knock others that do...its easy to see the effectiveness....just not me
guess i'm just a jigger threw N threw

[briansnat]

I second that thought!!! other than partying and chillin wit peeps i dont see the draw?? fishing glory shots are cool but im not a hand liner type a guy....:confused:

Partying and hanging with friends is a big part of it. Sometimes we are having such a good time the flags constantly going up become a bit of an annoyance. We'll look at each other and say "OK whose turn is it now?"

[briansnat]

A jiggin setup makes perfect sense to me!!!but cant wrap myself around usin tipups...I totally understand the need, to cover more water and diff depths at the same time but dont think ill ever wanna hand line fish....i dont knock others that do...its easy to see the effectiveness....just not me
guess i'm just a jigger threw N threw

I admit that I was never thrilled with hand lining the fish. It takes something away from the fishing experience. Its why I've slowly been replacing my traditional tip ups with ones that use jigging rods.

[tycomps]

anybody planning an ice meet-n-great? sounds like it would be a good time to introduce the novices to "the other water"! :)

[Delawareriver]

A jiggin setup makes perfect sense to me!!!but cant wrap myself around usin tipups...I totally understand the need, to cover more water and diff depths at the same time but dont think ill ever wanna hand line fish....i dont knock others that do...its easy to see the effectiveness....just not me
guess i'm just a jigger threw N threw
I understand it but it's not as bad as you would think. Fighting a big fish your hands is an experience letting line slip between your fingers so they don't break off is an adrenaline rush. You don't have drag or a rod to absorb the shock which makes it tricky when you have a big fish.

[Adrenalinerush]

Partying and hanging with friends is a big part of it. Sometimes we are having such a good time the flags constantly going up become a bit of an annoyance. We'll look at each other and say "OK whose turn is it now?"



Yep grilling and chilling is all part of the fun. Oh and I'll always take the flag if your to busy, lol

[Jigman13]

Some of my biggest freshwater fish came through the ice. Pike, largemouth, crappie, yellow perch, pickerel... plus you get to extend fishing into a year round activity.

Would love to bang an eye and smallie thru the ice this yr...

[Adrenalinerush]

Some of my biggest freshwater fish came through the ice. Pike, largemouth, crappie, yellow perch, pickerel... plus you get to extend fishing into a year round activity.

Would love to bang an eye and smallie thru the ice this yr...

I love that you never know what's on the end of the line when you run to the flag, could be a 7" perch or a monster!

[FASTEDDIE29]

Fishing/ Ice fishing is a way of life. I'll have a M-N-G somewhere granted we get the safe ice I'm praying for! I invite all members to give it a shot at least once if you haven't done it yet! I've been out twice already and can't get enough! The people, the food, the laughs and good times had by all are what it's all about! Catching fish is the added bonus of course! Fishermen fish and they fish all year round! And dat bees da truth!!!! Give it a shot fellas!!!! Don't stay in the house waxing your rod,,,,,,,, that's pretty damn boring if ya ask me!!!:D

P.S. Stay tuned!!!!

[Adrenalinerush]

Fishing/ Ice fishing is a way of life. I'll have a M-N-G somewhere granted we get the safe ice I'm praying for! I invite all members to give it a shot at least once if you haven't done it yet! I've been out twice already and can't get enough! The people, the food, the laughs and good times had by all are what it's all about! Catching fish is the added bonus of course! Fishermen fish and they fish all year round! And dat bees da truth!!!! Give it a shot fellas!!!! Don't stay in the house waxing your rod,,,,,,,, that's pretty damn boring if ya ask me!!!:D

P.S. Stay tuned!!!!

Very well said Eddie, I'm getting old and don't like the cold anymore, but I love the ice! The great thing about ice fishing is it creates a natural home base where you hang out, cook, fish and bullshit. When it comes to open water, I'm walking and covering ground trying to seperate myself from everyone else, the ice is different

[acabtp]

another couple reasons to ice fish
-access parts of lakes that you can't get to from shore, especially handy on no boating spots
-your lure goes EXACTLY where you want it. no interference from wind, waves, current, etc moving you around. just you and the jig. can help you fine tune your jigging game.
-perch roe scrambled eggs

[Jigman13]

Fishing/ Ice fishing is a way of life. I'll have a M-N-G somewhere granted we get the safe ice I'm praying for! I invite all members to give it a shot at least once if you haven't done it yet! I've been out twice already and can't get enough! The people, the food, the laughs and good times had by all are what it's all about! Catching fish is the added bonus of course! Fishermen fish and they fish all year round! And dat bees da truth!!!! Give it a shot fellas!!!! Don't stay in the house waxing your rod,,,,,,,, that's pretty damn boring if ya ask me!!!:D

P.S. Stay tuned!!!!

How'd it hold up after the snow/rain?

[Chrisper4694]

The surface was getting very sloppy...cross your fingers if you want ice to stay where it is and get more! Personally ice or open I don't really care, I'm fishing no matter what...its this half and half crap that drives me nuts. Freeze it all or don't freeze anything Mother Nature! I'm tired of you bull Crap!

[saxmatt]

It was awesome to get back out the last 2 days. No monsters but good times. Let's hope for a long season!

[tycomps]

Fishing/ Ice fishing is a way of life. I'll have a M-N-G somewhere granted we get the safe ice I'm praying for! I invite all members to give it a shot at least once if you haven't done it yet! I've been out twice already and can't get enough! The people, the food, the laughs and good times had by all are what it's all about! Catching fish is the added bonus of course! Fishermen fish and they fish all year round! And dat bees da truth!!!! Give it a shot fellas!!!! Don't stay in the house waxing your rod,,,,,,,, that's pretty damn boring if ya ask me!!!:D

P.S. Stay tuned!!!!

say the word and I'm there!

[Skunk City]

Had the pleasure of spending the morning on ice with some of NJF's finest today. Eddie, Mikey, Yuri, Andre, Barry, Matt, very solid crew! I think everyone enjoyed a hot breakfast of blueberry pancakes and hotdogs for lunch( Mikey Flay on the tail gate grill), lots of BS'ing, and of course, flag chasing. First ice is nice!

[njflyfisher]

Had the pleasure of spending the morning on ice with some of NJF's finest today. Eddie, Mikey, Yuri, Andre, Barry, Matt, very solid crew! I think everyone enjoyed a hot breakfast of blueberry pancakes and hotdogs for lunch( Mikey Flay on the tail gate grill), lots of BS'ing, and of course, flag chasing. First ice is nice!

Let's see the pics !!:D You guys are crazy going out on that sketchy ice but at least you got some fish!!

[Chrisper4694]

i wasn't sure how crowded it would be so went elsewhere nearby. 20 fish between 2 guys, pickerel, perch and bass, nothing big, jigging was slow. took one pic just cause it was the first ice trip...and forecast isn't looking promising for any other options becoming available the next week :(

[Adrenalinerush]

i wasn't sure how crowded it would be so went elsewhere nearby. 20 fish between 2 guys, pickerel, perch and bass, nothing big, jigging was slow. took one pic just cause it was the first ice trip...and forecast isn't looking promising for any other options becoming available the next week :(

Chris, you were on the ice yesterday? Did you eat your hat 🎩 plain or with a little salt and 🌶

[Mikey topaz]

Chris, you were on the ice yesterday? Did you eat your hat 🎩 plain or with a little salt and 🌶

Hahahahahahahaha for someone that was the biggest debbie downer last year!!!! This year one of the first ones out 😱

[Mikey topaz]

Fri we had 3inches solid ice sat was id say4-41/2 normal pike 21-28 inchers i got one at 34-35. But as we all know they are few and far between over there.... little pike nothing picture worthy so

[Chrisper4694]

Hahahahahahahaha for someone that was the biggest debbie downer last year!!!! This year one of the first ones out 😱

What, you think I wasn't out early last year?! I think I missed the first ice weekend because I was trying to smash ice out of my boat to get to spots...unsuccessfully I might add.

If I don't say it isn't going to happen, it won't happen! I'm always fishing, I just don't care if it's ice or open water. it's the half ice purgatory I hate and looking at the forecast that's what we will be getting...again!

[Adrenalinerush]

What, you think I wasn't out early last year?! I think I missed the first ice weekend because I was trying to smash ice out of my boat to get to spots...unsuccessfully I might add.

If I don't say it isn't going to happen, it won't happen! I'm always fishing, I just don't care if it's ice or open water. it's the half ice purgatory I hate and looking at the forecast that's what we will be getting...again!

Wah, wah, wah...... there will be safe ice from today on, but if your in between give me a call I'm setting up a tog trip for later in the week

[Chrisper4694]

Well that all depends on what boat you pick this time! Hahaha.

I'm planning on open water fishing next weekend, that's all I'm saying!

[Andrushkin33]

Ahhhhh,

Always a blast to hang out with hard core maniacs. Mike had the grill going like a pro ....thank you very much. Just to rub it in boys flags started to fly again after 3pm. Managed to even land one on a jig rod with a 2 lbs test.

Of course one day was not enough for me so was out again yesterday. To all ice stayed the same and was a fun day indeed again. Even in the rain.

Should just get better and better. Only one missing was our hat eating champ.

A taste from yesterday.

http://i1379.photobucket.com/albums/ah123/Andrusha_Gil/1218161131_zpsid7qtxpj.jpg

Andre

[Adrenalinerush]

Well that all depends on what boat you pick this time! Hahaha.

I'm planning on open water fishing next weekend, that's all I'm saying!

It wasn't the boat it was the fishermen. And Mikes picking the boat this time. I just going along for the ride!

[Chrisper4694]

if you got next week i'm in. this week i can't make it on a weekday.

[Delawareriver]

Who's game for another ice contest, Eddy you willing to run it again, if not I would be willing to

[ScowardNJ]

Who's game for another ice contest, Eddy you willing to run it again, if not I would be willing to

I would be happy to participate!

[Andrushkin33]

I would be in a second

[Chrisper4694]

I think we should have a contest every month!!!

[MattK]

Just has to be after Christmas so i can use all my shiny new toys!

[Adrenalinerush]

I am in, but does that mean I have to stop fishing all the private places and go on the public water with all the goons? LOL?!:D

[Adrenalinerush]

And is it okay to photo shop the contest banner onto some of my old pictures or is that generally frowned upon?;):D

[Jigman13]

If it happens again this year private lakes are excluded

[AndyS]

I think we should have a contest every month!!!

Not everyone on here is hardcore !!!

[briansnat]

I am in, but does that mean I have to stop fishing all the private places and go on the public water with all the goons? LOL?!:D

Probably. I never entered because in the past I did most of my ice fishing on Fayson Lakes and it would have been unfair. There are some big ass fish in those lakes, holdover browns and rainbows 5 lb and up, wipers, walleye, pike, some big bass and monster pickerel. I miss the place.

[Chrisper4694]

private lakes aint crap, bring it on.

[Jigman13]

I beg to differ lol. I'll pass on a public water body any day to fish a well managed private lake. I like catching big fish regardless of whether public or private. I have a very limited schedule to get out so making the most of it matters to me. Others have diff views and that's great. Just 2 cents from lil ol me!

[Adrenalinerush]

I beg to differ lol. I'll pass on a public water body any day to fish a well managed private lake. I like catching big fish regardless of whether public or private. I have a very limited schedule to get out so making the most of it matters to me. Others have diff views and that's great. Just 2 cents from lil ol me!

Agreed, a lot of the private lakes have a lot less fishing pressure and many are strictly catch and release

[Delawareriver]

I beg to differ lol. I'll pass on a public water body any day to fish a well managed private lake. I like catching big fish regardless of whether public or private. I have a very limited schedule to get out so making the most of it matters to me. Others have diff views and that's great. Just 2 cents from lil ol me!
Private waters are fun to fish but for a contest it should be an equal playing field.

[Adrenalinerush]

I am in, but does that mean I have to stop fishing all the private places and go on the public water with all the goons? LOL?!:D

I just wanted everyone to know that this post was my attempt at satire and was not serious.:confused: Obviously its not an equal playing field if some fish public and some fish private

[Jigman13]

Private waters are fun to fish but for a contest it should be an equal playing field.

Of course.

[Chrisper4694]

I'll smoke your private lake fish with public water fish all day every day!

[Adrenalinerush]

I'll smoke your private lake fish with public water fish all day every day!

Blah, blah, blah, your smoking something alright, I'll take greenpond and you can take any public water you want, the pickerel and smallies in green pond are insane! If your nice we will bring you! By the way I got new snow tires on my van for the next time I meet you at round valley and fish in a blizzard, lol

[Andrushkin33]

Blah, blah, blah, your smoking something alright, I'll take greenpond and you can take any public water you want, the pickerel and smallies in green pond are insane! If your nice we will bring you! By the way I got new snow tires on my van for the next time I meet you at round valley and fish in a blizzard, lol

Lol ....you know Chris will run of of hats that way. Speaking of pickerels still the biggest ones that I came across were from Farrington and they were pushing 30 inches.

Then again I been talking about catching a pike from there for the last 3 years so what do I know.

Andre

[Adrenalinerush]

Ah the mythical 30" pickerel, lol I have yet to see one. Dude your trying to catch a pike? Those 30" plus pickerel are pike, 😂

[Chrisper4694]

if you can consistently jig smallmouth through the ice on greenpond i'll eat my hat again hahahaha

[FASTEDDIE29]

Holy crap! This thread has 4,357 views and I have no ****ing idea why!!!!! LMFAO! Good shit fellaz!!! Maybe we can get this one to 10,000.........

[Jigman13]

Lol that's crazy. See what the ice does? Feverish

[icebadger]

i wonder if chris is running out of hats by now.:confused.

[Chrisper4694]

I have a closet full of them, like a cartoon character.

here's some jigged up crappie ice fishing the other night with delawareriver. the slabs come out in the dark! goooooooooooo 10k views hurry before it melts!!! we can beat fluke-a-saurus!!!

[icebadger]

nice slabs,how late where you out on the ice?

[Adrenalinerush]

Holy crappie! Nice slabs frozen cove or small pond?

[FASTEDDIE29]

I have a closet full of them, like a cartoon character.

here's some jigged up crappie ice fishing the other night with delawareriver. the slabs come out in the dark! goooooooooooo 10k views hurry before it melts!!! we can beat fluke-a-saurus!!!

Yessssssss!!! Slab-zilla!!! 4514 views and the skies the limit! LOL! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee Whooooooooooooooooo!

[Adrenalinerush]

Yessssssss!!! Slab-zilla!!! 4514 views and the skies the limit! LOL! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee Whooooooooooooooooo!


It's the ice, ice baby! Apparently, there are a lot of closet hard water fisherman out there!

[Delawareriver]

Chrisper went to town on the crappies after dark. I was beating up on him while the sun was up, managed to jig two pickerel, handful perch, nice bluegill and couple crappies but once or the sun went down he put a hurting on me catching 6 or 7 crappies with some really nice ones in the mix while I managed one dunk. Haha oh well

[Chrisper4694]

Holy crappie! Nice slabs frozen cove or small pond?

shallow lake, 5' depth average with one deep hole 6-9' which is were we fished. 5.5" of ice easy in the whole area

[Andrushkin33]

Ahhh,

Good job guys. And I was thinking should I stay or should I go. Decided not to go all by myself just to be on the safe side.

Nice hubcaps of a crappie Chris.

Andre