The creator of North East Ice Fishing

Meet Nathan Krusko:

How I got started in ice fishing:

       Ice fishing started at an early age in the finger lakes region of New York State. In the beginning days it consisted of fishing from a bucket and using a hand made rod from the tip of a broken summer rod inserted into a wooden handle. While not jigging, it was common to watch tipups for a flag and in most cases it would result in a lost fish from a bad hook set. Later these old reborn summer rods were put away for new panfish rods which by today's standards were quite stiff. But with this technology I was learning how to catch fish. With the connection to the internet and cable fishing programs I began to learn so much about jigging methods which furthered my success.

Fish from a bucket or shelter?

       Primarily today I fish from a shelter  but there a few times where the situation may warrant my using a bucket.

Why I use a shelter as a primary fishing method:

       I primarily use a shelter for climate control and secrecy. I have a fishing style that can be easily affected by the wind. By fishing in a shelter this element is taken out of the equation. Warmth is another major factor. If I am warm, I can fish with out gloves and this keeps the increased sensitivity in my fingers.

Preferred ice Fishing Method:

       My favorite fishing method is finesse jigging. I use smaller jigs with a finer rod that reacts to the slightest bite from a fish. This finesse method has put more fish on the ice for me than any heavy handed jigging spoon under most conditions. My origins although are with jigging spoons for deep water perch.

Favorite location to fish:

       In the average situation I like to chase schools of fish around deep water with my sonar. This is a skill that I have perfected. Although slightly new to shallow water I have an immense passion for sight fishing.  The thrill that comes from this is overwhelming at times.

What started my tournament fishing?

       As I began to master the use of sonar I began to try new spots and was commonly noticing that I was catching more than the average guy. In my home areas, I was doing great as well.  Often times I was out on the lakes the same day as an event to only read the results in the papers. It was an eye opener, that in so many times I could of either won or placed in these local derbies. So one day I had just committed my self to trying. This developed into an addicting passion of which is fueled by the adrenalin of a competition. While competing it is nice to also be a part of a brotherhood of fellow anglers as well.

What is the goal for the future?

       My goal for the future is to share my knowledge of fishing and resources with others. This region is full of so many great fishing opportunities that go unnoticed by many anglers. I would like to bring attention to these and get more people and the industry interested in ice fishing in the Eastern United States.