Seaguar on the Water

Ice fishing season is quickly approaching in many regions and one of the best ways to get in on the action is by targeting first ice panfish.

The salmon species are a well-regarded fish species for both their sport and excellent table fare. While native to the North Atlantic and Pacific Ocean, they can be found in the Great Lakes and have legions of fans fishing for them yearly. 

American bass anglers owe a lot to their Japanese counterparts as some of the most significant innovations cross the Pacific Ocean and then slowly enter the tackle boxes of North American anglers. The drop-shot rig is one prime example of something that started in the Far East, gained steam in the western United States and is now a staple throughout the country.

Fishing aquatic vegetation is second nature to bass anglers, but the green stuff is just as crucial for walleye fishing. They use weedlines as travel routes and know that grass holds plenty of forage, making them the perfect place to search for their next meal. 

Over the past few years, braided lines with a fluorocarbon leader have become a go-to set-up for anglers fishing spinning gear. It's a combination that works exceptionally well and generally; the only question is which connection knot to use. But, some anglers still prefer to use straight fluorocarbon , whether for lure performance or convenience.

For the northern United States and Canada, the upcoming winter season brings a new opportunity that anglers look forward to all year: ice fishing season. The legions of avid ice fishermen fish for various species, with panfish being a popular quarry with tiny baits and light line.