In S9E8 of the Hard Water Fishing Show, Jeff and Jason break down late-season crappie tactics, share a no-BS Leech Lake fishing report, and dive into what’s actually working on the ice right now.
The ice is in and the lessons are piling up. Jeff and Jason dig into what’s working, what’s not, and how this season is changing the way they fish — from depth breaks and fish behavior to gear, tech, and cold-weather chaos.
Jeff and Jason kick things off with a full recap of their Red Lake, Minnesota trip. Despite tough conditions and a slower bite, they managed to catch walleyes by adjusting presentations and leaning into finesse tactics. Gold, red, and rattling lures proved effective, with glow Buckshots standing out once the bite pattern became clear.
The trip wasn’t without challenges. From less‑than‑ideal lodging to the realities of hauling, setting up, and breaking down gear, the guys share the honest, behind‑the‑scenes details that every ice angler can relate to. A major theme throughout the episode is organization, efficiency, and learning from mistakes—all setting the stage for future improvements.
In this episode, Jeff and Jason kick off the early-ice season with safety reminders, gear updates, listener tips, and some clever DIY hacks to simplify time on the ice. They’re joined by veteran Minnesota guide Captain Josh Hagemeister, who shares practical ice fishing strategies, affordable gear advice, and insights on how modern sonar affects fish behavior. The show wraps with memorable guide stories and a preview of what to expect from the upcoming St. Paul Ice Fishing Show.
