How to Fish With a Rapala Ice Jig

Rapala manufactures freshwater jigs for lake and stream fishing. In the warmer months, fishermen cast floating or diving Rapalas from the banks and boats. When the surface freezes, it’s time to opt for a weighted jig that you drop through cored holes in the ice. The type and color of jig depends on the species you're targeting, such as walleye or trout. Although a rod and reel combo is a matter of personal preference, more is involved than selecting a jig. The way you present a Rapala ice jig can make the difference between a nice catch and an empty stringer.

Things You'll Need

  • Casting or spinning reel and freshwater rod
  • Weighted Rapala ice jig
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fasten the end of fishing line to the metal loop at the head of the weighted ice jig, with a clinch knot.

    • 2

      Hold the rod horizontally, with the tip above the hole in the ice. Turn the reel handle or pull line off the spool by hand, as necessary, so the jig hangs about 24 inches from the tip of the rod. For a casting reel, depress and hold the free spool button with the thumb of your casting hand. For a spinning reel, open the bail and grip the fishing line near the spool with one finger of your casting hand.

    • 3

      Release the button on the casting reel, or loosen your grip on the fishing line, and allow the weighted jig to slowly drop through the hole and into the water below.

    • 4

      Allow the jig to fall through the water column for three seconds, then stop the line from peeling off the casting reel or spinning spool. Repeat this step until the jig hits bottom. If you feel a strike while the jig is on the way down, immediately turn the handle on the reel and retrieve the fish.

    • 5

      Make sure the ice jig is on the bottom before you begin retrieving it. Lower the tip of the rod close to the ice, and turn the handle of the reel several times. Slowly lift the tip until it is just above eye level, then turn the handle to keep the line taut as you lower the tip to the ice again.

    • 6

      Continue to raise the rod tip and lower it as you turn the handle, until the jig is out of the water. If you feel a strike at any point during the retrieving action, immediately raise the rod tip above eye level and begin playing the fish.