Ice Fishing House Directions
- 1). Call your local or state department of natural resources office to check the current regulations for ice fishing houses in your area. These regulations may change at different times during the winter, affecting such factors as whether you can leave your ice shelter on a lake overnight, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This information will not only keep you from a possible fine, but also help you determine what type of ice fishing house works best for you in terms of portability.
- 2). Contact your local police department or department of natural resources office to determine the thickness of the ice before you go fishing. This information is vital to your safety. Four inches of ice is the general rule for ice fishing safety, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. However, eight inches of ice is required to support a light truck (two-and-a-half tons), while 10 to 12 inches will bear the weight of standard to heavy trucks (three-and-a-half to eight tons).
- 3). Purchase or rent an ice fishing house that best suits your needs. These houses are widely available online and at many sporting goods retailers. If you are handy, you can obtain ice fishing house plans online and customize your own construction (see Resources).
- 4). Transport your ice fishing house to the desired location, staying well away from any dams and areas where streams enter the lake. Most cars will fit collapsible portable shelters; however, if you are using a permanent shelter, you will need a vehicle with a trailer hitch. You can select an isolated location or join an "ice shanty town" of fellow ice fishing enthusiasts.
- 5). Set up your ice fishing house according to the manufacturer's instructions. Portable shelters generally only take a few minutes to assemble, depending on the style. If you are using a permanent ice fishing house, unhitch your vehicle once you have the house placed where you want it, and park your vehicle back on land to reduce stress on the ice. Once you have set up your house, drill your fishing hole outside, or do it inside your house, if you have a model with open floors. Thus, you can fish within the comfort and shelter of your ice fishing house.
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