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| 12/2/2009 1:00:00 PM | Email this article • Print this article | First on ice - crazy or just avid?
 | Keith Nelson
Columnist
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Some folks may call us first ice fishers crazy, but I'd prefer the term avid.
There is something that happens to me every year when our lakes freeze up.
The calling ... anyone who has fished that new ice knows what I'm talking about.
Strapping on those ice cleats and walking out on that brand-new sheet of ice - what a thrill! Those voices from the fish calling to come and get me become louder and louder driving me to take that next step.
What a sight the sun busting through the trees is and, oh, look, an eagle soaring overhead.
Today will be a great day.
My rod and reels are all set ... have been for weeks. You wouldn't believe how many times I've pulled them out to fondle them.
Waiting for ice I've been like that little kid going on a long trip. Are we there yet?
So now I'm finally on the ice, my holes are drilled and clean. The anticipation is killing me. Are there any fish down there?
My most valued tool, Marcum LX-3 flasher with a full battery gets pulled out of the sled and turned on.
As I'm lowering the ice ducer into the water I'm hoping, yes, there are fish there and they are stacked. WHOOOOOOO!
Within minutes the first slab is on. Now I'm giggling like a 'lil schoolgirl.
I've heard it said "you're crazy" to be out there. Well, I'll admit there was some insanity running through me prior to hitting that ice, but once there I become serene - cerebrally at peace and to have fulfilled my human nature craving to be one with nature. It's the ultimate experience.
A full day on the ice leaves me exhausted, but it's a good kind of exhaustion.
To be honest, the time out on that first ice is an escape from the normal everyday tensions of life.
Clean air, good exercise and, if I keep a few fish to eat, well, a day just doesn't get any better.
A few tips: go with another person. Have a plan if you fall through.
Check ice often with a spud bar. Stay away from moving water or areas with springs.
Bring a flotation device like a life jacket.
Have a great ice fishing season
C'ya on the ice and God Bless CK
Join "Crappie Keith," on his fishing forum at http://www.ckoutdoors.com.
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