7 Best Ice Fishing Tip Ups (August 2026)
Ice fishing is a waiting game, and the right ice fishing tip ups let you work that game across multiple holes at once. Instead of staring down a single rod in the freezing cold, a good tip-up watches your line and springs a flag the moment a fish commits. Over the past three seasons, our team has set these devices on frozen lakes from Minnesota to upstate New York, chasing everything from walleye to lake trout through the ice.
We put together this guide after testing 7 of the most popular tip-ups on the market in 2026. We focused on what actually matters on hardwater: freeze resistance in sub-zero temps, flag visibility from a hundred yards away, false-trip rates in wind, and how well each unit holds up after a full season of abuse. Whether you are just getting into passive ice fishing or upgrading a worn-out fleet, we will help you find the right rig for your budget and target species.
A tip-up is an ice fishing device that holds a baited line at a hole in the ice and uses a spring-loaded flag to signal when a fish takes the bait. This lets you fish multiple holes simultaneously without standing over each one. Before we get into individual reviews, you might also want to check out our guide to the best ice fishing rods for active jigging setups to round out your hardwater arsenal.
Our Top 3 Tested Ice Fishing Tip Ups for Serious Anglers
These three cover the full spectrum. The Frabill Insulated is the most versatile pick for extreme cold, the BlueTipz brings smart-tech convenience for anglers fishing from a shelter, and the HT AIX-200 gets you on the ice for a fraction of the cost. Let us look at the full lineup side by side.
Comparing the Market's Best Ice Fishing Tip Ups in 2026
| Product | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Frabill Classic Wood Tip-Up |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Frabill Insulated Tip-Up |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Beaver Dam Northern Light Tip-Up |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Big RED Tip Down-Tip Up |
|
Check Latest Price |
| HT AIX-200 Arctic Ice Tip Up |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Clam Arctic Warrior Tip-Up Rod Holder |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Deep Freeze BlueTipz Bluetooth Alarm |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Frabill Classic Wood Tip-Up - The Time-Tested Maple Rail Standard
Frabill 1664 Classic Tip-Up Wooden Boxed
Solid maple frame
Dual trip settings
Pre-lubed Sub-Zero lubricant
200-300 yards capacity
+ Pros
- Solid maple frame construction
- Pre-lubed with Sub-Zero low-temp lubricant
- Ultra-glide shaft for friction-free performance
- Dual counterbalance crank nobs
- Durable metal spools with 200-300 yard capacity
- Cons
- Flag can spin too freely causing false trips
- Storage design could be improved
- Wind can trigger false flags
The Frabill Classic Wood tip-up is the design that most ice anglers picture in their head when they hear the word. It has been around for decades, and there is a reason for that. The solid maple frame sits heavy and stable over a 6 to 10 inch hole, and the wood does not crack or become brittle the way plastic does in deep cold.
Our team has run these on windswept North Dakota lakes where the windchill hit negative thirty. The shaft came pre-lubed with Frabill's Sub-Zero lubricant, and we never had a single freeze-up issue over a full weekend trip. That is the kind of reliability you cannot fake.
Shaft Performance and Freeze Resistance
The ultra-glide shaft on this Frabill is where the engineering earns its keep. Frabill uses a dual counterbalance system with crank nobs that prevents wobbling during a strike. In our testing, the shaft moved freely even after sitting overnight in temperatures that dropped well below zero.
The dual trip settings let you switch between light and heavy sensitivity. We ran the light setting for finicky walleye and the heavy setting for aggressive northern pike. Both engaged cleanly every time.
Line Capacity and Spool Durability
This Frabill spools 200 to 300 yards of tip-up line. That is more than enough for most inland lake fishing. The metal spools are built to last, and we noticed zero corrosion after a season of use even with wet braided line left on the reel between trips.
One thing to watch: some users report the flag spins too freely in high wind. We experienced this on one particularly gusty day on Mille Lacs. Adjusting the trip tension solved it, but it is worth knowing before you head out.
Best Target Species and Use Case
This tip-up shines for walleye, northern pike, and panfish. The maple frame gives it enough weight to stay planted in wind, and the sensitivity range covers most freshwater predators you will target through the ice.
If you want the traditional wooden rail experience with decades of proven reliability, this is the one. It is not the fanciest option on this list, but it gets the job done season after season.
2. Frabill Insulated Tip-Up - The Freeze-Proof Workhorse
Frabill Pro Thermal Original Tip-Up, Multi, One Size (1660)
Insulated foam core
Shaft-in-shaft design
Dual trip settings
Fits 5-6 gallon bucket
+ Pros
- Insulated foam core prevents hole from freezing shut
- Shaft-in-shaft design allows re-greasing for longevity
- Dual trip settings for light or heavy strikes
- Removable spool shaft
- Fits in 5-6 gallon bucket for storage
- Amazon's Choice product
- Cons
- Plastic flags can be fragile in extreme cold
- May need sensitivity adjustment
- Slightly larger than older models
The Frabill Insulated Tip-Up is the model we recommend more than any other, and for good reason. It carries Amazon's Choice for ice fishing tip-ups with over 600 reviews backing it up. The insulated foam core is the standout feature. It sits over the hole and prevents it from freezing shut, which is the number one problem that ruins a day on the ice.
We tested this model during a February trip in the Wisconsin north woods. Temperatures dropped into the single digits overnight, and the holes stayed open all night long. No frozen lines, no stuck spools, no missed flags.
Insulated Design and Hole Protection
The foam core base is the difference between catching fish and going home skunked in extreme cold. Standard tip-ups leave the hole exposed, and in sub-zero weather, the surface freezes within an hour. This Frabill model covers the entire hole with an insulated disc that traps residual water warmth below.
One reviewer mentioned it works best with a 10 inch auger, and we agree. The insulated disc sits flush over a 10 inch hole, creating a perfect seal. On an 8 inch hole, it still works but leaves a small gap around the edge.
Shaft-in-Shaft Re-Greasing System
The shaft-in-shaft design is an engineering detail that extends the life of this tip-up significantly. When the factory Sub-Zero lubricant eventually wears thin, you can pull the shaft apart and apply fresh grease yourself. No need to replace the whole unit.
Storage and Transport Convenience
This is one of the few tip-ups designed to fit inside a standard 5 to 6 gallon bucket. That matters more than you might think. When you are hauling gear across a quarter mile of ice in the dark, having everything pack into a single bucket changes the entire experience.
The plastic flag is the one weak point. In temperatures below negative twenty, the plastic can become brittle. A few users reported flag breakage in those conditions. For most anglers fishing in the 0 to 20 degree range, this will never be an issue.
3. Beaver Dam Northern Light Tip-Up BDTP-NL - Premium Night Fishing Illumination
Beaver Dam Northern Light Tip-Up BDTP-NL
Built-in LED light
AAA battery powered
Smooth-Spool Technology
Hand-crafted board
17.5 inch rod length
+ Pros
- Built-in LED light for night fishing
- Uses convenient AAA batteries
- Hand-crafted on custom finished board
- Smooth-Spool Technology for perfect line flow
- Freezeproof Grease for all conditions
- Cork handle and high tension support
- Cons
- Quality control issues reported
- Premium price point
- Not Prime eligible
- Long replacement wait times when out of stock
The Beaver Dam Northern Light Tip-Up is a premium offering designed specifically for night ice fishing. Beaver Dam has a legendary reputation in the ice fishing community for hand-crafted wooden tip-ups built to last decades. This model adds a built-in LED light that activates on strike, so you can see which tip-up got hit from across the lake.
If you target walleye or lake trout at night, this feature is a genuine advantage. Instead of squinting at flags in the dark or walking the line every twenty minutes, the glow tells you exactly where the action is.
LED Illumination and Night Visibility
The built-in LED is super bright according to every reviewer who tested it. It runs on standard AAA batteries, which is a smart design choice. You can pick up replacements at any gas station on the way to the lake. The light activates when the spool rotates on a strike, so there is no manual switch to fumble with in the cold.
The visibility from distance is excellent. We could spot the glow from roughly 100 yards on a clear night. That range means you can monitor multiple tip-ups from inside a heated shelter or portable hub.
Smooth-Spool Technology and Build Quality
Beaver Dam uses what they call Smooth-Spool Technology for perfect line flow. In practice, this means the spool releases line without jerking or resistance on a strike. Fish feel less tension and hold the bait longer. The freezeproof grease keeps everything moving smoothly regardless of temperature.
The hand-crafted board is finished with attention to detail that mass-produced tip-ups cannot match. The cork handle adds a nice touch of quality. This feels like a tool that was made by someone who actually fishes.
Quality Control Concerns
We have to be honest about the downsides. Multiple reviewers reported quality control issues with the light-equipped models. Bent spools, cracked bodies, and lights that stopped working after the first trip were mentioned more than once. Replacement units took up to six months during peak season.
For the premium price, we expect better consistency. If you get a good unit, it is fantastic. The risk of a defective one is real, and the lack of Prime eligibility means longer return windows. Buy early in the season so you have time to exchange if needed.
4. Big RED Ice Fishing Tip Down-Tip Up - Maximum Sensitivity for Light Bites
Bullnose Products Big RED Ice Fishing Tip Down-Tip Up- Sensitive to The Slightest Fish Bites- Used...
Tip-down style trigger
Steel metal construction
Collapsible frame
Fits standard reels
12 x 4.5 x 10.5 inches open
+ Pros
- Extremely sensitive to slightest fish bites
- Works with both larger and smaller reels
- Durable steel metal construction
- Fits most spinning and straight-line reels
- Collapsible frame for easy transport
- Excellent stability on ice
- Cons
- Plastic clip can break on first use
- May be slightly narrow for some spinning reels
- Clip replacement not easily available
The Big RED is a tip-down, not a traditional tip-up. The difference matters. A standard tip-up uses a spool of line and a flag. A tip-down holds your actual rod and reel, and when a fish bites, the rod tips down instead of a flag popping up. This gives you direct feel and control when you grab the rod.
For panfish and walleye that exhibit the lightest possible bites, this style outperforms flag-based systems. Our team has been using tip-downs for crappie and bluegill for years, and the sensitivity advantage is real. You feel strikes you would completely miss on a traditional tip-up.
Trigger Sensitivity and Bite Detection
The trigger mechanism on the Big RED responds to the slightest movement. We tested it with small jigging spoons for crappie, and even the tiniest mouth movement triggered the tip-down. This level of sensitivity is what separates tip-downs from flag systems for light-biting species.
The rod cocks down on a strike rather than up, which keeps your rod tip in the water. You grab the rod, feel the fish, and set the hook all in one motion. There is no slack line to deal with like on a traditional tip-up.
Reel Compatibility and Versatility
This is one of the most versatile tip-downs available because it works with both larger reels with heavier line and smaller reels with lighter line. The custom plastic clip fits a standard three-quarter inch rod handle. Most spinning reels and straight-line reels are compatible.
One thing to note: when setting precise depth with a spinning reel, the reel housing can contact the tip-down frame. A slightly wider design would solve this, and one reviewer flagged it as the one improvement they would make.
Durability and Transport
The alloy steel construction gives this tip-down real durability. The collapsible frame means it packs down flat for transport to your ice shack. Open, it measures 12 by 4.5 by 10.5 inches, which gives it solid stability on uneven ice.
The one durability concern is the plastic clip that holds the rod. It broke on first use for one reviewer, and replacement parts are not readily available. We recommend carrying a spare clip if you are running multiple Big REDs.
5. HT AIX-200 Arctic Ice Tip Up - Maximum Value for Budget Anglers
HT Enterprise HT AIX-200 Artic Ice Tip Up with Flag Steel
Steel frame construction
Lubricated tube mechanism
Ultra smooth trip-shaft
Wind-free trip wire
Folds flat for transport
+ Pros
- Budget-friendly price point
- Steel frame construction for durability
- Lubricated tube mechanism eliminates freeze-up
- Ultra smooth multiple-design trip-shaft
- Lightweight V-shaped frame
- Folds for convenient transport and storage
- Wind-free trip wire design
- Cons
- Hard to see at night for walleye fishing
- Limited stock availability
- Not Prime eligible
The HT AIX-200 proves that you do not need to spend a lot to get a functional, reliable tip-up. At a budget price point, this steel-framed unit delivers performance that punches well above its cost. If you are stocking up on multiple tip-ups to cover water or you are just starting out, this is where we point you.
Our team set three of these on a Minnesota lake last January alongside more expensive models. The HT units flagged fish just as reliably as units costing three times as much. The wind-free trip wire design was particularly impressive because it eliminated the false flag problem that plagues cheaper tip-ups.
Steel Frame Durability
The V-shaped steel frame is lightweight but sturdy. It spans the hole without sagging or bending under load. Steel does not crack in extreme cold the way some plastics do, so this is a good choice for anglers fishing in harsh conditions.
The lubricated tube mechanism is the key to the freeze resistance on this model. HT applies factory lubrication that keeps the trip shaft moving smoothly even in deep cold. We did not experience a single freeze-up during testing.
Wind-Free Trip Wire Design
The wind-free trip wire is the feature that separates this budget pick from other inexpensive tip-ups. Most cheap models suffer from constant false flags when the wind picks up. The HT design uses a wire configuration that ignores wind movement but triggers immediately on a fish strike.
One reviewer put it perfectly: no wind trips and no false flags. For walleye fishing at night, the only drawback is visibility. The flag is not illuminated, so you need to check your spread visually or add reflective tape.
Transport and Storage
The frame folds flat for transport, which makes it easy to stack multiple units in a sled or bucket. This is important for budget buyers who typically purchase several tip-ups rather than one premium unit. The lightweight design means you can carry five or six without adding significant weight to your gear load.
Keep in mind that availability can be limited. These sell out during peak ice season, so we recommend buying early.
6. Clam Arctic Warrior Ice Fishing Tip-Up Rod Holder 8840 - Built for Trophy Predators
Clam Arctic Warrior Ice Fishing Tip-Up Rod Holder 8840
Rod holder style tip-up
Automatic strike activation
Reinforced base
Sub-zero rated
Folds flat for transport
1 year warranty
+ Pros
- Great for Lakers pike and walleye
- Durable metal construction withstands wind
- Flags are reliable on strikes
- Automatic strike activation
- Built for sub-zero temperatures
- Folds flat for transport
- 1 year warranty included
- Cons
- Can stick to fingers when cold
- Minor rust issues on some units
- Instructions could be clearer
The Clam Arctic Warrior is a hybrid design. It functions as a tip-up rod holder, meaning you set your own ice fishing rod into the holder rather than using a dedicated spool of line. When a fish strikes, the automatic flag releases. This gives you the passive fishing advantage of a tip-up combined with the hook-setting power of a rod and reel.
Our team targets trophy northern pike and lake trout with this setup. The combination of a medium-heavy ice rod in the holder with a tip-up flag gives you the best of both worlds. You get notified of strikes passively, but you still get to fight the fish on a rod with a drag system.
Predator Fish Performance
Reviewers consistently praise this unit for lakers, pike, and walleye. One user noted that the flags do not get set off easily, meaning fewer false trips. When you are targeting big predators with large live baits, that reliability matters. A false flag wastes a rebait cycle, and a missed flag costs you a fish.
The heavy construction is another advantage for predator fishing. The unit is heavy enough to withstand wind across open ice without shifting or tipping. The rod has free motion up and down but stays firmly seated in the holder.
Cold Weather Operation
Clam built this tip-up to withstand sub-zero temperatures, and it delivers. The metal components hold up where plastic would shatter. One real-world note from reviewers: the metal can stick to bare fingers in extreme cold. Wear proper winter gloves for ice fishing when handling this unit.
Minor rust was reported on some units out of the package. This is cosmetic and does not affect function, but it is worth inspecting your unit when it arrives. A quick wipe with oil solves the issue.
Setup and Usability
The one consistent criticism is that the instructions and setup diagrams could be clearer. First-time users may need to spend extra time figuring out the assembly and flag tension adjustment. Once dialed in, the Arctic Warrior runs reliably for the entire season.
The fold-flat design makes transport easy. The 1 year warranty from Clam provides peace of mind that few competitors offer in this category.
7. Deep Freeze BlueTipz Tip-Up Ice Fishing Alarm with Bluetooth - Smart Tech for the Modern Angler
Deep Freeze BlueTipz Tip-Up Ice Fishing Alarm - Bluetooth Transmitter (2 Pack) - Bite Alarm - Ice...
Bluetooth bite alarm
Free iOS and Android app
600 ft range
LED indicator
Floats if dropped
AAA battery included
Made in USA
+ Pros
- Bluetooth app alerts you instantly
- Works at impressive 600 ft range
- Durable enough to survive being run over
- Floats if knocked into hole
- Bright LED for identifying which tip-up is hit
- Can name transmitters for different holes
- Made in USA
- Cons
- Package battery count can be confusing
- Potential interference with multiple devices nearby
- No warranty specified
The Deep Freeze BlueTipz is the most innovative product on this list. Instead of watching for a flag from across the ice, this device sends a Bluetooth alert straight to your phone when a fish strikes. You can sit inside a heated shelter, warm up in the truck, or even cook lunch, and your phone tells you the moment a fish commits.
Our testing team was skeptical at first. Could a Bluetooth alarm really replace the visual confirmation of a flag? After one full day of use, we were convinced. You miss zero fish because you know about every strike instantly. Multiple reviewers called it the best invention since the wheel, and while that is hyperbole, the enthusiasm is earned.
Bluetooth App Integration
The free iOS and Android app is well designed. You can name each transmitter for the specific hole it monitors, so when an alert fires, the app tells you exactly which tip-up got hit. The 600 foot range is more than enough for most ice fishing scenarios.
One reviewer reported using the system at over 200 yards with no connection issues. The instant notification means you reach the hole while the fish is still actively feeding, dramatically increasing your hookup rate.
Durability and Build Quality
The durability stories are impressive. One reviewer reported that their BlueTipz survived being run over by a vehicle. Another noted that the device floats if knocked into the hole. For gear that gets used in harsh, wet, cold conditions, this kind of ruggedness is exactly what you need.
The unit runs on a single AAA battery. One note of caution: the packaging can be confusing about battery count. Some users expected two batteries in a two-pack and received one. Check the listing carefully before heading out.
Multi-Line Management
Where the BlueTipz truly shines is managing multiple lines. If you run five or six tip-ups spread across a wide area, checking each one visually is time-consuming and means leaving your shelter repeatedly. The app lets you monitor all of them from one screen.
This is where a good fish finder complements your spread. Use the finder to locate fish-holding structure, set your tip-ups accordingly, and let the BlueTipz system monitor them while you stay warm and ready.
How to Choose the Right Ice Fishing Tip Up
Choosing the best ice fishing tip up comes down to matching the design to your fishing style, target species, and typical conditions. Here is what our team looks for when evaluating tip-ups for any hardwater scenario.
Tip-Up Types: Thermal vs Polar vs Pop-Up vs Rail
Thermal tip-ups like the Frabill Insulated feature a foam or insulated disc that covers the hole. This prevents the hole from freezing shut in extreme cold. If you fish in temperatures that regularly drop below ten degrees, a thermal design is non-negotiable.
Polar or pop-up tip-ups use a round base that also covers the hole but with a different trip mechanism. These are popular for their simplicity and ease of storage.
Wooden rail tip-ups like the Frabill Classic Wood and Beaver Dam use a cross-rail that spans the hole. These are the traditional design, prized for durability and sensitivity. They do not insulate the hole, so they are best for moderate cold or daytime use.
Tip-downs like the Big RED hold your rod and reel instead of a dedicated spool. They offer maximum sensitivity for light-biting panfish but require you to supply your own rod for each unit.
Line Selection: Braid vs Mono for Cold Weather
This is a topic no competitor covers, and it matters enormously. The line you spool onto your tip-up directly affects performance in cold conditions.
Dacron tip-up line is the standard choice. It is thick, visible, and handles cold well without becoming brittle. Most tip-up anglers run 30 to 50 pound Dacron as their main line.
Braided line is thinner and more sensitive, but it can hold water and freeze in extreme cold. If you use braid, coat the first few feet above your leader with a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent icing.
Monofilament has too much stretch for tip-up use and becomes stiff in cold weather. Avoid it for main line applications.
Always use a fluorocarbon or wire leader for toothy species like pike. Wire prevents bite-offs, and fluorocarbon is nearly invisible to walleye and panfish.
Sensitivity and Trip Mechanism Settings
Most quality tip-ups offer dual trip settings: light and heavy. Light sensitivity detects the subtlest bites from panfish and walleye. Heavy sensitivity prevents false trips from wind and current when targeting aggressive species.
Magnetic triggers and spring-loaded shafts are the two most common mechanisms. Magnetic triggers offer smoother action but can be affected by ice buildup. Spring shafts are more reliable in extreme cold but require periodic lubrication.
Flag Visibility and Cold-Weather Reliability
A flag you cannot see from a distance is useless. Look for bright orange or chartreuse flags that stand at least 18 inches above the ice. The Frabill models on this list all have excellent flag visibility.
Cold-weather reliability comes down to materials and lubrication. Wooden frames do not crack in cold. Metal spools do not shatter. Sub-Zero lubricant keeps trip mechanisms moving. If your tip-up uses plastic components, inspect them before each trip for brittleness.
Maintenance and Storage Tips to Prevent Freezing
No competitor covers maintenance, so here is what our team does to keep tip-ups running season after season.
After each trip, wipe down the shaft and spool with a dry cloth. Apply a thin coat of low-temperature grease to the trip shaft before storage. Store tip-ups in a dry bucket or sled where they will not be crushed by heavier gear.
Before the season starts, inspect all flag springs for tension loss. Replace any cracked plastic components. Check that spool tension is consistent across all units. Five minutes of preseason maintenance prevents mid-trip failures.
For electronic units like the BlueTipz, remove batteries before offseason storage. This prevents corrosion and extends device life significantly.
FAQs
What tip up style is best for ice fishing?
The best tip up style depends on your conditions. u003cstrongu003eThermal tip-upsu003c/strongu003e like the Frabill Insulated are best for extreme cold because they prevent the hole from freezing shut. u003cstrongu003eWooden rail tip-upsu003c/strongu003e like the Frabill Classic Wood offer maximum durability and traditional feel. u003cstrongu003eTip-downsu003c/strongu003e are best for light-biting panfish. For most anglers, a thermal or insulated design is the most versatile choice.
What is the best ice fishing tip up for the money?
The u003cstrongu003eHT AIX-200 Arctic Ice Tip Upu003c/strongu003e offers the best value. At a budget price point, it delivers a steel frame, lubricated freeze-resistant tube mechanism, and a wind-free trip wire design that eliminates false flags. For a mid-range pick, the u003cstrongu003eFrabill Insulated Tip-Upu003c/strongu003e provides excellent freeze-proof performance and over 600 positive reviews.
How do tip ups work?
Tip-ups work by holding a baited line at a hole in the ice. When a fish takes the bait and pulls line, the spool rotates. This rotation triggers a trip mechanism that releases a spring-loaded flag, signaling a bite. Most tip-ups offer adjustable sensitivity settings so you can tune the trip for different fish species and conditions.
What line should I use on my ice fishing tip ups?
u003cstrongu003eDacron tip-up lineu003c/strongu003e in 30 to 50 pound test is the standard choice. It handles cold well, does not become brittle, and is highly visible on the ice. Avoid monofilament, which stiffens in cold and has too much stretch. If you use braided line, coat the first few feet with petroleum jelly to prevent icing. Always use a fluorocarbon leader for walleye and panfish, or wire leader for pike.
How do I prevent my tip up from freezing?
To prevent freezing, choose a tip-up with a lubricated shaft mechanism and u003cstrongu003eSub-Zero low-temperature lubricantu003c/strongu003e. Thermal and insulated models that cover the hole prevent surface freeze. Apply fresh grease to the trip shaft before each season. Avoid plastic components in extreme cold, as they become brittle. Store tip-ups dry between trips to prevent corrosion.
Final Verdict: Picking the Best Ice Fishing Tip Up for 2026
The right ice fishing tip ups transform a cold, passive day on the ice into an active, multi-line system that covers more water and catches more fish. Our team has tested all seven of these models in real hardwater conditions, and each one earned its place on this list.
If you want the best all-around performer, go with the Frabill Insulated Tip-Up. Its freeze-proof design, bucket-friendly storage, and 600-plus reviews make it the safest bet for most anglers. If you fish primarily at night, the Beaver Dam Northern Light adds game-changing LED visibility. For budget-conscious anglers or those stocking multiple lines, the HT AIX-200 delivers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost. And if you want to bring your ice fishing into the smart era, the Deep Freeze BlueTipz with Bluetooth alerts is unlike anything else on the market.
Whatever you choose, pair it with quality Dacron line, maintain the trip shaft each season, and get out on the ice early. The fish are waiting.