A Guide to Ice Fishing for Women...

(Beginners Only)

STORY BY LIZ PENSONEAU

Every woman should try ice fishing— at least once!

My friend, Cheryl, taught me everything I know about ice fishing.

First of all, don't leave home without your fishing license even if you are fishing on private property (unless you happen to own the property yourself). The cost is $13—a good investment considering the license is good for one year. Or, if you lack confidence, take the cut-rate version for $5.50. But remember, you get what you pay for because the $5.50 license is only good for 24 hours. (That's 23 cents an hour.) If you are old, consider yourself lucky. You'll get the senior citizen rate of $6.75 for a one-year license.

Put on as many layers of clothes as your body can accommodate. I suggest (from the inside out):
• underwear
• pantyhose
• camisole
• insulated underwear (top & bottom)
• loose-fitting jeans
• a turtleneck
• a sweatshirt
• 2 pairs of heavy socks
• insulated coveralls (make sure they are camo, so you'll look cool)
• extra-large, heavy-insulated rubber boots
• a down jacket
• a wool scarf
• a wool knit hat
• weird gloves that have flip-back fingers
• sunglasses
• lipstick (you never know who might drop by the old fishing hole)

Word of Caution: Do not allow anyone to photograph you.

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OutdoorIllinois

Hey, this miniature fishing pole really works!

Things you'll need:

•A pick-up truck with 4-wheel drive

• An ice house (HEY, it only looks like a porta potty)

• An ice auger

• BYOB. But it doesn't mean what you think. When it comes to fishing, it's bring your own bucket—sturdy enough to support you and 25 pounds of clothing. (Helpful hint: Sit on the solid end of the bucket. If you've ever milked a cow, it's kinda the same position.)

• Fishing pole: Not like the ones you see in pictures. You'll need the miniature version. Don't get upset if you don't see a bobber. These little guys have reels, just like the big rods and reels, and cute little hooks that can be baited with midget worms.

A five-gallon bucket may be your most important fishing accessory. We put this mess of fish in ours.

A good friend experienced in ice fishing to show you how to cut the hole in the ice or better yet, who will do it for you and give you a crash course in how to lower your line through the ice. Nothing like a fishing buddy or two to make the day a lot of fun.

• Brownies: You will be busy holding the pole in one hand, but the other is free for brownies.

• Beverages: Not a good idea, obviously.

• Kleenex: You'll need them. I nose it.

It was a fun day at the old fishing hole.

Ideal personality traits:

Be Brave. That ice looks pretty scary, especially if there is water standing on top of it in spots.

Be Patient: Waiting to catch a fish can be likened to waiting for your first child to be born. Slow, but worth it when it finally happens.

Be Enthusiastic: You need to make a lot of noise when you catch your first fish. I know because my partner, Cheryl, did.

Be Appreciative: Putting up with a beginner is very trying for an experienced fisherman. Be sure to express your appreciation to your friend(s) and, in spite of the temptation, try not to catch too many fish so you'll get invited back.

January 2001

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