Why would seemingly normal people be willing leave the comfort of their homes to congregate on the slippery surface of a frozen lake, braving arctic temperatures and biting winds to peer anxiously into a watery hole?  Maybe it’s because they’ve already figured out what some anglers haven’t yet – ice fishing is fun and effective. For those interested in learning more about this sometimes overlooked form of fishing, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is offering instruction.

The Commission has scheduled six upcoming ice fishing clinics.  Participants will learn basic ice safety, get an explanation of the different types of ice fishing gear and some practical lessons in various ice fishing techniques.  Don't have any ice fishing gear?  That's okay, just bring yourself.  Equipment will be provided by the PFBC thanks to donations from outdoor retailer Gander Mountain , and tackle manufacturers Pure Fishing and Shakespeare. 

For more information on individual events, interested participants should call the number indicated after each listing.

So just how effective can ice fishing be?  Three recent state record fish – a 2-pound, 9-ounce yellow perch, an 8-pound,14.8-ounce chain pickerel and a 35-pound northern pike – were caught by ice anglers.  Now that’s fun!