Frigid ice fishing has anglers eyeing hot spots

There are good reasons why people step onto a sheet of ice, cut a round hole the size of a dinner plate and while away the hours watching for a slightest wiggle on the tip of a fishing rod.

And, it involves fish: trout, bluegill, spake, kokanee, bass, perch or walleye. All are available here in Utah, and all are being caught through the ice and in open water.

Warming conditions, however, are starting to slowly eat away the winter sport. While higher-elevation waters remain frozen,some mid-level waters are seeing levels rise from melting snow, which is resulting in open water around the edges on some lakes and reservoirs. Lower waters are free of ice at this time, which is why some anglers take along some type of small bridge or wading boots to reach a solid surface.

Ice fishing does offer some unique fishing experiences, among them the opportunity to fish deeper waters without a boat. How deep depends on how far anglers choose to go. At this point, ATVs and snowmobiles are not recommended, because of slushy conditions. Cross-country skis, snowshoes and walking are recommended.

Among the common tools of an ice fisherman are an auger — power or hand — to cut through the ice and very light tackle.

Chopping through the ice with an ax or bar can be difficult and time consuming, especially for those who follow one of the main rules of ice fishing, which is if the fish aren't bitting, move to a new location.

A common mistake of wintertime fishermen is they don't move. They assume fish do, so they don't. As a result, it's not uncommon for the two never to meet. Or, if they do, it's infrequent.

Therefore, it is a commonly held rule with winter fishermen that if the fish aren't biting, move — again and again and again — until there is some action. Despite what some may think, ice cold water doesn't excite trout. In very cold water, fish slow way down to preserve energy.

Among the recommendations for winter fishing are:

Use very light tackle. That means a very short and light fishing rod, very light line, three- to five-pound test and small lures or baits.

It is mandatory that fishermen use some type of strike indicator. The bite is sometimes too soft for human fingers to feel.

If a fish finder is available, use it.

Fish are often suspended where conditions might be more comfortable. At this time of year, the suggestion is to start near the surface and work down.