S9E5 - Guest Captain Josh Hagemeister
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.
Topics Covered in This Episode
Early ice preparation & safety reminders
Patron support
DIY sled and heater hacks
Listener fishing reports and photos
Spotted Cow beer + Wisconsin hot chocolate trivia
Introduction to Captain Josh Hagemeister
Affordable gear setups that still get results
Walleye lure selection and presentation tips
How forward facing sonar affects fish behavior
St. Paul Ice Fishing Show preview and gear scouting plans
About Our Guest: Captain Josh Hagemeister
Captain Josh is a full-time Minnesota fishing guide with over 36 years on the water, spending more than 300 days a year guiding and fishing. Starting young at family resorts, he’s built a lifelong career focused on practical, affordable ice fishing fundamentals, reading seasonal patterns, and teaching clients techniques that consistently produce results on pressured lakes. for more information check out https://bit.ly/48UnXCw
Gear & Products Mentioned
Ice Fishing Equipment
Hand augers for early ice https://amzn.to/4ryWQEB
K-Drill lightweight setups https://amzn.to/48uBIqc
Milk crate heater stand (DIY solution)
Non-adhesive shelf liner https://amzn.to/48QnXDs securing your little buddy heater https://amzn.to/48QnXDs
“Trick Your Trap” book — email trickyourtrapguide@gmail.com to order a copy
Technology & Tools
Garmin LiveScope (and how turning it off can improve catches)
Jason’s 3D printer for upcoming custom gear projects
Early-season sonar minimalism for stealth
Beverages Mentioned
Spotted Cow — Wisconsin-only fan favorite
Swiss Miss — Wisconsin-made, with fun factory history
Listener Photos & Reports
Wyoming listener submitted a trout photo
Walleye photo shared during hookset law discussion
DIY PVC gear projects from past guests
Community tips for sleds, crates, and gear organization
Send us your photos and tips on Facebook or Instagram to be featured in future episodes!
Ice Safety Notes
Jeff and Jason stress these early-season reminders:
Check ice thickness frequently
Avoid current areas, narrows, and pressure cracks
Bring ice picks, rope, and a fishing buddy
Wear a float suit whenever possible
Ice conditions can change quickly — especially on early ice — so stay cautious and prepared.
St. Paul Ice Fishing Show Preview
The team plans to gather:
Top 5 Coolest New Products
Unique and lesser-known gear
Listener submissions from the show
Hands-on impressions of new innovations
Jason’s brother-in-law will be providing on-site coverage, and Jeff may attend Thursday or Friday.
Support the Show
Help keep the augers spinning and the content flowing!
Support the show through Patreon, pick up Hard Water gear, or share the podcast with a fellow angler.
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Credits
Hosts: Jeff & Jason
Guest: Captain Josh Hagemeister
Production & Editing: Hard Water Fishing Show Team
