I'll recommend a 28" Ugly Stick med action ice rod as the one to get....it's 20.00 at Dick's....I happen to like that rod because it's tip is super sensitive and appropriate for jigging and feeling a light bite...(yes I broke one over the weekend but it was my error)......If you have a small reel already you use for trout, you can slap that on......the only thing you'll have to do is strip some line off and put some ice line on....so for @ 30.00, you're in business.....jig selection is pretty easy too.....a 1/8 oz silver kastmaster or swedish pimple and a few teardrop jigs is all you need.....I'll post a link for that rod in the am....hope that helps.....some others will give you good suggestions on here as well....there are some very knowledgeable guys on this board....

As for food, I think a big pot of homemade New England Clam Chowder or Cream of Mushroom Soup is gonna be my item!!....Is either one ok w/ everyone or is there a preference towards one.....Not a problem, just let me know in advance!!.....

Here is the link for the Ugly Stick:
http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/pr...414792.4414795

Also, just got an email from Cabelas and end of seasom clearance sale starts/////check out some good deals....here's the link....the ice rods and combos and tipups are at a great savings...get em now for the M & G
http://www.cabelas.com/browse.cmd?ca...3Bcat107519580