1. Fish away from the crowds. Don’t be a follower—be original.

2. Try small, shallow, “no-name”, warm lakes—especially this year (drive south?)  Don’t forget the river!

3. Stick to live bait—small/medium shiner minnows, small/medium leeches. 1/16-1/8 oz. jigs or long snelled live bait rigs.  Use stinger hooks for the infamous cold water “short hits”.

4. Fish shallower than you think—2-5ft is not uncommon—even during a sunny day!

5. Fish deeper than you think—20-35ft deep has produced on many opening day trips! 

6. Fish any possible current areas (creeks/rivers/wind) or shallow sand flats with new weed growth—day or night that’s where the forage (and feeding fish) are found.

7. Stick to blue/white/glow/green/purple/black/silver/gold for colors—all natural baitfish themes—unless the water is “chocolate” then bump it up to fluorescent orange/green or chartreuse.

8. Cover water and search out the loose groups of roaming fish.  If possible use an electric motor—stealth is important—pretend you are stalking deer in the woods.

9. Wash your hands, tiller handle, or steering wheel with no-scent soap.  Fish don’t like bacon, donuts and premium gas like we do.

10. Have fun and be respectful to fellow anglers.  No crowding or tailgating a “hot” boat.  No drinking and boating—be safe!  Bring the kids!

“Lotsa Fish! Lotsa Fun!” Captain Josh Hagemeister, Minnesota Fishing Guide Service, 218-732-9919, 320-291-0708, www.MinnesotaGuideService.com, www.MinnesotaIceFishHouseRental.com.