I had a great time hitting the Saint Paul Ice show last week and I wasn't alone. Attandance was at or beyond record levels as anglers perpared themselves for the upcoming ice season.
If money were no object I probably would have dropped about $75,000 on a new luxury house with a matching truck, snowmobile and ATV! Unfortunately I have Ferrari dreams on a Fiat budget but still managed to come away with some fantastic products that will undoubtedly result in great fishing this winter!
1. Strikemaster - HardWater Ware Polar Parka & Bibs- $330
After several years of wearing make-shift ice wear I invested in this set of winter wear to keep me warm. I'm excited to see how it performs but trust I'll be comfortable. I'm not saying this is the best product available, however, I think it is arguably the best value for your money. Available in size Small to XXXXXL....there's one that will fit you! I also picked up a pretty sweet zipper-collar Strikemaster sweatshirt for $20 which could be the bargain of the show.
2. Frabill – Headquarters Hub Shelter - $299.99
With 3 young sons I'm rarely fishing alone and usually with another of my kid's friends or two. This year we're trying out the Frabill Headquarters Hub Shelter. This gives us plenty of room to fish as a group. I anticipate we'll use it like a HQ with holes in and around the shack. Frabill Camp Chairs @ $15/chair will replace my orange Home Depot buckets….the buckets will be officially dedicated to holding all our fish!
3. Irish Setter – Snow Claw XT Boots - $209.99
I generally use my rubber hunting boots for ice but this year picked up a pair of Irish Setter Snow Claw XT boots. They pretty much had me sold on 2000 grams of Thinsulate but the serrated cleats and Aerogel layer between my foot and the sole also sound appealing. This is a very substantial boot but amazingly light. I can see myself on the ice for many hours without cold feet!
