In the video titled “CRAZY Night of Ice Fishing for BIG Walleyes + Ice Camping!”, Tom Boley takes you on a thrilling adventure of ice fishing for walleyes at night. The video showcases the use of the WALLEYE NOW App and features a variety of fishing techniques, from slip bobber to dead stick. Tom sets up his equipment and drills holes to fish for big walleyes throughout the night. The video captures the excitement of catching thick and heavy fish, ranging from mid-20 to low-20-inchers, and emphasizes the satisfaction of a successful fishing trip. With stunning visuals and expert tips, this video is a must-watch for all ice fishing enthusiasts.

Downloading the Walleye Now App

Are you ready to take your ice fishing game to the next level? Look no further than the Walleye Now App, available on Google Play and the App Store. This app is your ultimate companion for all things ice fishing, specifically targeting big walleyes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, this app has all the features you need to make your ice fishing experience a success.

Availability on Google Play and the App Store

The Walleye Now App is easily accessible on both Google Play and the App Store. Simply search for “Walleye Now” and download the app to your smartphone or tablet. It’s free to download and install, making it a convenient option for any angler.

Features of the App

Once you’ve downloaded the Walleye Now App, you’ll have access to a wide range of features designed to enhance your ice fishing experience. The app provides detailed information on various aspects of ice fishing, including choosing the ideal location, drilling holes, setting up equipment, and preparing for nighttime fishing. It also offers tips and techniques for catching big walleyes, such as using a set line with big minnows, employing a jigging spoon, running a live bait setup, and using a beaver dam tip-up. Furthermore, the app provides valuable insights into the variety of fish you can catch while ice fishing, as well as different techniques you can use, such as slip bobber and dead stick fishing. Additionally, the app offers recommendations for the right fishing gear, including the Piscifun Carbon X2 – 2000 reel, which is known for its quality and durability. Lastly, the app allows you to share your ice fishing experiences with others, providing a platform to connect and learn from fellow anglers.

Setting up for Ice Fishing

Before you head out onto the ice, it’s important to set yourself up for a successful ice fishing trip. This involves choosing the ideal location, drilling holes, and setting up your equipment.

Choosing the Ideal Location

When it comes to ice fishing, location is key. You want to find a spot where the fish are likely to be concentrated. This can vary depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and the specific species you’re targeting. It’s helpful to do some research and gather information from fellow anglers, fishing forums, or local fishing reports. Additionally, using technology such as fish finders or GPS devices can assist you in finding underwater structures and identifying potential hotspots.

Drilling Holes and Setting Up Equipment

Once you’ve found a suitable location, it’s time to drill holes and set up your equipment. You’ll need an ice auger to drill holes in the ice, either manually or using a power auger. It’s important to drill several holes in a strategic pattern, allowing you to cover a larger area and increase your chances of finding fish. After drilling the holes, you’ll need to clear away any ice shavings or slush using an ice skimmer or scoop.

Next, set up your ice fishing equipment. This includes a fishing rod and reel, preferably one designed for ice fishing. You’ll also need a tackle box filled with a variety of lures, jigs, and hooks. Don’t forget to bring along your bait, such as big minnows, which are particularly effective for attracting larger fish like walleye. Additionally, it’s essential to have an ice fishing shelter or shack to protect yourself from the elements and provide a comfortable space to fish from.

Preparation for Nighttime Fishing

Nighttime can be an excellent time to catch big walleyes while ice fishing. As the sun sets and the temperature drops, walleye activity often increases. To prepare for nighttime fishing, make sure you have proper lighting, such as headlamps or lanterns, to illuminate your fishing area. It’s also essential to dress warmly and bring extra layers, as the temperature can quickly drop after dark. Finally, be sure to bring along some snacks and hot beverages to keep yourself energized and comfortable throughout the night.

Ice Fishing Techniques

When it comes to ice fishing for big walleyes, there are several techniques you can use to increase your chances of success. Here are a few tried-and-true methods:

Using a Set Line with Big Minnows

One effective technique for catching big walleyes is using a set line with big minnows as bait. This involves rigging up a fishing rod with a heavy-duty line, attaching a flotation device or tip-up, and suspending a large minnow in the water column. The minnow will swim around enticingly, attracting the attention of hungry walleyes. Once a walleye bites, the flotation device will indicate a strike, and you can quickly reel in the fish.

Employing a Jigging Spoon

Another popular technique is jigging with a spoon. This involves attaching a spoon-like lure, such as a tungsten cast master spoon, to your fishing line, and using a vertical jigging motion to attract walleyes. The reflective properties of the spoon plus the erratic movement mimic a wounded minnow, which can entice walleyes to bite. It’s important to experiment with different jigging motions, depths, and colors to find what works best for the specific conditions and walleye preferences.

Running a Live Bait Setup

Running a live bait setup can be highly effective for catching big walleyes. This technique involves rigging up your fishing rod with a slip bobber, which allows you to adjust the depth at which your bait is suspended. Use a large minnow or other live bait, such as a nightcrawler, and let it float at the desired depth within the water column. The subtle movement of the live bait can attract walleyes and trigger a strike. It’s crucial to pay attention to any bobber movements or line tension, as these can indicate a bite.

Using a Beaver Dam Tip-Up

A beaver dam tip-up is a specialized device that can be used to set up additional lines while ice fishing. It consists of a spool of line attached to a spring-loaded flag mechanism. When a fish takes the bait and pulls on the line, the flag pops up, alerting you to a bite. This method is particularly useful when targeting larger fish like walleyes, as it allows you to cover a larger area and increase your chances of success. Be sure to check your tip-ups regularly and keep them baited with big minnows or other desired bait.

Catch of the Day: Big Walleye

One of the most exciting aspects of ice fishing is the opportunity to catch big walleyes. When it comes to these prized fish, there are several key points to consider:

Description of the Caught Walleyes

The walleyes caught during the ice fishing trip were described as thick and heavy. The sizes ranged from mid-20s to low 20s inch fish, indicating a good population of healthy walleyes in the area. The fish displayed impressive girth and overall size, making them a highly coveted catch.

Consistency in Catching Big Walleyes

Throughout the ice fishing trip, there was a consistent pattern of catching big walleyes. Using the various techniques mentioned earlier, such as the set line with big minnows and the jigging spoon, resulted in multiple successful hook-ups. The fish were actively feeding and responding well to the presented bait and lures.

Releasing the Fish Back

After catching the big walleyes and admiring their size and quality, it was decided to release them back into the water. This practice helps to conserve the fish population and ensures that future anglers will have the opportunity to catch these impressive walleyes. Catching and releasing fish is a responsible approach to ice fishing and contributes to the overall sustainability of the sport.

Variety in Ice Fishing

While targeting big walleyes is the main goal of this ice fishing trip, there is also an opportunity to catch a variety of other fish. This adds to the excitement and diversity of the ice fishing experience. Here are a few key points to consider:

Different Types of Fish Caught

In addition to the big walleyes, there were other fish species caught during the ice fishing trip. These included a variety of panfish, such as bluegill, crappie, and perch. Each species provided a unique challenge and added to the overall enjoyment of the fishing experience.

Using Different Techniques: Slip Bobber and Dead Stick

To target the different fish species, different techniques were employed. For panfish, using a slip bobber setup with small jigs or live bait was effective in enticing strikes. This allowed for precise depth control and the ability to adjust to the fish’s preferences. Additionally, using a dead stick setup, which involves a stationary rod with bait close to the bottom, proved successful for catching certain species.

Consistency in Overall Catch

Overall, the ice fishing trip proved to be highly successful in terms of catching fish. The use of various techniques and adapting to the changing conditions allowed for a consistent catch rate. The quality of the fish caught, combined with the variety of species, made for a rewarding ice fishing experience.

Ice Camping Experience

Camping overnight on the ice can be a unique and enjoyable experience for ice anglers. It provides an opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the fishing environment and maximize fishing time. Here are some highlights of the ice camping experience:

Overnight Camping in a Fishing Shack

The ice camping experience involved setting up a fishing shack or shelter on the ice. This provided a comfortable and warm space to rest, eat, and relax between fishing sessions. The shack was equipped with a heater and proper insulation to ensure a cozy environment throughout the night. The convenience of having a shelter on the ice eliminated the need to travel back and forth from a distant location and allowed for immediate access to the fishing holes.

Relaxing on the Ice

In between fishing, there was plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ice camping experience. This involved sitting on a chair or bucket, taking in the peacefulness of the surroundings, and appreciating the natural beauty of the frozen landscape. Some anglers brought along books, music, or games to further enhance their relaxation time.

Anticipating More Catches During the Night

One of the most exciting parts of ice camping is the anticipation of catching more fish during the night. As darkness falls and temperatures drop, walleye activity tends to increase, making it an optimal time for catching these coveted fish. Anglers eagerly awaited the bite as they settled into their sleeping bags or reclined in their chairs, knowing that the next walleye could strike at any moment.

Choosing the Right Fishing Gear

Having the right fishing gear is essential for a successful ice fishing trip. Here are some recommendations for gear that can enhance your chances of catching big walleyes:

Recommendation of Piscifun Carbon X2 – 2000 Reel

The Piscifun Carbon X2 – 2000 reel is highly recommended for ice fishing. It is known for its durability, smooth drag system, and overall performance. This reel provides the necessary strength and reliability to handle big walleyes and other large fish species commonly found on the ice. With its lightweight design and comfortable grip, it offers anglers the ultimate control and precision.

Discussing the Benefit of Using Big Minnows as Bait

Using big minnows as bait can greatly increase your chances of catching big walleyes. These larger-sized minnows are more enticing to the fish, providing a substantial meal and mimicking their natural prey. The scent and movement of a big minnow can attract walleyes from a distance, increasing the likelihood of a successful hookup. To effectively fish with big minnows, it’s important to rig them properly on a set line or jigging spoon, ensuring they appear lifelike and appealing to the walleyes.

Talking about Using Light for Additional Set Lines

Adding light to your set lines can be a game-changer when ice fishing at night. The use of a beaver dam tip-up with a light allows your lines to be easily visible, even in complete darkness. This helps you monitor any activity and detect potential bites more easily. By illuminating your set lines, you can increase your chances of successfully catching big walleyes during the night bite. When selecting a light, opt for ones that are waterproof, bright, and have a long battery life to ensure optimal visibility throughout your fishing session.

Sharing the Ice Fishing Experience

Ice fishing is not just about catching fish; it’s also about sharing the experience with others. Whether it’s the excitement of successful fishing, the joy of being out on the ice, or the thrill of catching big walleyes, ice fishing is often best enjoyed with friends or fellow anglers. Here are some highlights of sharing the ice fishing experience:

Recalling the Foggy Night

One memorable experience shared was fishing on a dark, gloomy, and foggy day. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the fog added a sense of mystique to the fishing adventure. The anglers persevered and were rewarded with multiple big walleyes, making the foggy night a unique and memorable occasion.

Sharing the Joy of Successful Fishing

Catching big walleyes and experiencing a successful fishing trip together creates a strong sense of camaraderie and joy. The anglers were overjoyed each time they pulled in a thick and heavy fish. The shared excitement and celebration of these catches brought the group closer together, fostering a positive and enjoyable atmosphere on the ice.

The Excitement around Catching Big Walleyes

Catching big walleyes is a thrilling experience for any angler. The enthusiasm and adrenaline rush that come with reeling in a trophy-sized walleye are contagious. The group shared in the excitement, cheering each other on and appreciating the impressive catches. These moments of triumph created lasting memories and strengthened the bond between the anglers.

Learning More about Walleye Fishing

For those eager to expand their knowledge of walleye fishing, the Walleye Now App provides access to a wealth of information and resources. Here are some opportunities for learning more about walleye fishing:

Accessing More Walleye Fishing Videos

The Walleye Now App offers a selection of informative and educational videos specifically focused on walleye fishing. These videos provide valuable insights into various topics, such as dead sticking, location strategies, and effective presentations. By watching these videos, anglers can learn new techniques, gain valuable tips, and further their understanding of walleye behavior and habitats.

Information on Dead Sticking, Location, and Presentations

The Walleye Now App delves deeper into the specifics of dead sticking, location selection, and effective presentations. Dead sticking is a technique that involves using a stationary rod with a baited hook close to the bottom. It can be particularly effective for enticing walleyes during slow periods or in heavily pressured fishing areas. Understanding the best locations to target walleyes, such as drop-offs, weed beds, or rock piles, is crucial for success. The app provides detailed information on identifying these locations and adjusting your presentations accordingly.

Recalling Overall Fishing Experience

Reflecting on the overall fishing experience is a valuable learning opportunity. Taking note of what worked well, what techniques were successful, and what adjustments were made along the way can help improve future fishing endeavors. By analyzing the results of each fishing trip and adapting strategies based on those experiences, anglers can continuously enhance their skills and increase their chances of catching big walleyes.

Wrapping up the Ice Fishing Trip

As the ice fishing trip comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the rewarding experience and plan for future adventures. Here are some final thoughts before heading back home:

The Speaker Signs off and Plans the Next Ice Fishing Adventure

The speaker expresses gratitude to the viewers for joining them on the ice fishing adventure. They reflect on the success and excitement of the trip, expressing their satisfaction with the catches and the overall experience. They plan to continue exploring new lakes and filming more videos in the future, aiming to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow anglers.

Heading to Another Lake to Film More Videos

To continue providing valuable content, the speaker mentions their plan to visit another lake for future ice fishing expeditions. This will allow them to showcase different locations, techniques, and fish species, creating a well-rounded collection of videos for viewers to enjoy and learn from.

Reflecting on the Rewarding Ice Fishing and Camping Experience

The speaker takes a moment to appreciate the rewarding nature of the ice fishing and camping experience. From catching big walleyes to connecting with fellow anglers, the trip provided memorable moments and a deep sense of fulfillment. The speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the thrill of ice fishing.

In conclusion, ice fishing offers a unique and exciting way to pursue big walleyes and enjoy the winter beauty of frozen lakes. By utilizing the Walleye Now App, choosing the right fishing gear, and honing your ice fishing techniques, you can maximize your chances of success. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, there’s always something new to learn and discover in the world of ice fishing. So grab your gear, download the app, and embark on your own ice fishing adventure today!