Hybrid Jig
What happens when you cross a heavy tungsten jig and an ice fly? Can the best parts of each be combined to complement the other’s fish-catching ability? These were the questions that led to the creation of this pattern. And before I knew it, this fly-jig hybrid was born. This pattern utilizes both the fast-sinking, heavy nature of tungsten and the subtle, trigger-rich nature of ice flies. The ultra-heavy tungsten allows it to sink fast and “bounce bottom” to stir up the mud, while the subtlety entices even the wariest of fish. My favorite color for this pattern is orange, but that’s not to say that other colors don’t catch fish. It’s just a personal preference. This jig is a simple pattern, but it is deadly under the ice for not only panfish but also trout. Hook: #10-#14 Nymph Bead: Insta Jig Tungsten Head Thread: 210 ultra or 6/o Uni Tail:…
The Basics of Using Ice Flies for Panfish
Ever come across a tricky panfish bite under the ice? When fish get picky, ice flies are often the best solution for those nasty bites below the ice. This article gives a basic introduction to picking ice flies. When picking an ice fly, there are three things that I consider. First, I think about what the fish is primarily feeding on, and how big that food source is. Panfish are opportunistic feeders, especially in the winter. They will feed on many things during the cold season. However, many of those food sources can be generalized into three categories: Nymphs and Larvae, Freshwater Shrimp, and Worms. As long as I have a couple from each category, I can match almost every bite. Size is another key factor. Colder weather makes the fish have much smaller appetites. On those nasty days when your holes freeze over before you finish drilling them, a smaller fly is often the only…