Ice fishing on Cape Cod can be very challenging. Some winters are very mild with little to no ice for fishing, while other winters, like last year, can be very cold resulting in some great ice. 2015 was an exceptionally frigid and snowy winter, and a great year for ice fishing.
Here's some advice from Goose Hummock Pro Staffer Dan Jones on fishing the frozen ponds of Cape Cod...
I prefer to have at least 3 to 4 inches of solid black ice for safe conditions.You can always check with your local fire department or tackle shop for information on ice conditions, and always be cautious before venturing out.
All of the ponds on Cape Cod have a variety of fish to pursue including trout, bass, pickerel, perch and bluegill. Typically I will use tip ups, and shiners for bait. I will also use a short jigging rod with artificial ice jigs to entice fish as well. Cutting holes through the ice can also be challenging. If the ice is thin, using a chipper is ok but if there is more than 5 inches of ice a hand auger is recommended. Also dress accordingly for the ever changing New England weather. The ice angling last year was incredible to say the least. The crew from The Goose Hummock iced numerous bass over five pounds, and plenty of perch and panfish as well . So while winter can seem to drag by, ice fishing is a great way to get out of the house, with family and friends and enjoy the outdoors!
Tight lines!
Dan Jones
(Pictured: Top, Goose Pro Staffer Chris Nashville. Bottom: Goose Pro Staffer Dan Jones.)