[saxmatt]

Great info! One thing I would add is if you are planning on releasing them use single hooks, not trebles. Big fish can easily swallow your bait before you get to the flag and single hooks are much easier to get out and do less damage than treble hooks. This was already said but make sure you bring everything you need with you to the hole when you get a flag. I see too many people who let the fish flop around on the ice while they go back to their sled to get the camera, pliers etc.