First time ice fishing - need help

[curious_hook]

Hi guys,

I am a newbie to ice fishing. I recently got an ice auger, an ice fishing rod and artificial wax worms (the gulp brand). I live in toronto and I am looking for a nice place to go ice fishing for the first time. Any recommendations? I want to try Cooks bay, but don't have an snow mobile. Are there any good spots close to shore from Gilford? How about parking? I would also appreciate it if you can give me a list of basic requirments for ice fishing. Your help will be much appreciated.
Thanks

 

[RedSkullz]

Hey
You dont need a snowmobile for cooks bay. Tons of guys walk out...its probably about a 1.5km walk. For the perch you want an ultralight rod with 4lb test ice line. Small 1/32 or 1/64 oz jigs or small hooks will work well. A small sled will get your gear out easier, rather than having to carry everything. Also you want a minnow bucket if you decide you want to use minnows(which we prefer for bait). Other than that a small ice scoop is definitely needed, unless you only go out on mild days.

 

[curious_hook]

Where can I find a good store to purchase minnows?

 

[despotiko]

A great place is Virginia Beach, right where the fairy takes you to Georgina Island. I was down there two weekends ago and slayed the jumbos. The water is clear and only about 8-10 feet deep so you can pretty much sight fish. Theres a hut operator right on shore by the parking lot that will sell you minnows and any other tackle. You'll see a ton of huts out there just pick a spot, drill your hole and enjoy! Other than that RedSkullz is spot on with the tackle requirements, specifically though i'd get a few small marabou jigs in different colours, jigging spoons or airplane jigs, and you can never go wrong with gulp minnows or anything from gulp really.

Tightlines,
Despotiko

 

[FrankTheRabbit]

The hut rental place would give minnows for free. Dunno how many though.

 

[ret0dd]

Not All Huts Give "Free" Minows.


-If YOU plan on going alone please let somebody know where you are going.

-It wouldnt hurt to invest in a floatation suit/jacket/bib just in case an accident happens as well.

-Buy/Make a spuds, these things will tell you how strong the ice is as you walk towards your destination.

If you plan on taking a car or truck stay on the common path. Also dont wear your seat belts and have the window open. The reason for this is just incase the vehicle falls through the ice and you have the quickest way to escape.

Myself personally would rent a hut to see the ice conditions or if im not famliar with the area before venturing out on foot.

 

[curious_hook]

Thanks for the tips guys, I am probably going to rent out a hut sometime next week. Has anyone tried ice fishing on any ponds in toronto? I had Topham pond at eglinton flats in mind... I checked it out today and it seems to look frozen to me. I noticed footsteps on the pond, however didn't see anyone there.