It was a cold and windy day, but I was able to get out for a short time at the Rock Island Conservation Club just before Christmas.
The only fish caught was a yellow bass on a Custom Jigs & Spins Ratfinkee with a Crappie Nibble.
My hands became so cold that it was impossible to drive home. So I had to pull over by the small north lake to warm up. It could mean that my ice fishing days are over.
I was trying out a handwarming muff that is normally used by hunters, that I got through Sportsman’s Guide. However, it didn’t do a thing to help. Maybe if there were some handwarmers inside, but I doubt it. Even as cold as my hands were I could still feel cold air filtering through the material. Unfortunately I think it gave me a false sense of security, and is the reason why my hands became overly cold. In fact, it was so bad that I started having chest pains, and after 4 hours being away from the water my left hand is still hurting with the fingers being cold to the touch.
It may be time to stay out of cold weather fishing and hang up the ice gear. May offer advice to others, while watching them catch the fish, or just stay home.
Until next time, get out on the water and have a great day of fishing.