[jbird68]

What do yo use for ice cleats and why?

[birdman]

I've only ice fished less than a dozen times here in Colorado. I don't currently have any cleats but definitely need some. It's really water dependant here as to if you'll need cleats or not. Alot of the lakes will always have snow cover which greatly helps in traction. But the windblown ones have some nasty glare ice on them. After several trips on slick ice like this, I come to realize the importance of em'. I'll definitely be picking some up this year. Any suggestions?

[jbird68]

I've used two styles so far.

1) HT slip-ons - They have good traction but only under your toe area. No treads for the ball of your foot. They are cheap in price but I don't think they are cheap in quality.


2) Cabala's Bot Chains ($14.99) - They fit my boots very nicely and were inexpensive. I still have a prblem when drilling a hole by hand. My feet will slide around. The chains are smooth and don't bite as well as the stamped plate on the HT brand.


I am still looking for a better solution. Stabilicer has come out with a model similar to the HT but with spikes on the heel also. They are only $20 at Cabela's. I am headed there this weekend to check them out.


Stabilicer makes more expensive ones too. Just depends on what you want to spend. good Luck

[birdman]

I think I might give the bot chains a go. Do they seem to be somewhat durable?

[jbird68]

They are very durable. I don't have any problem with the quality of construction.

[jbird68]

Didn' thave the NEW stabilicers in the Cabela's store. Haven't needed spikes or chains yet. There's been snow on the ince for traction.

[walleye4]

Best cleats you can get are Yak Tracks. Get the pair with the buckles so you don't have to worry about them falling off!

[jbird68]

Originally Posted by birdman

I think I might give the bot chains a go. Do they seem to be somewhat durable?

They don't have great traction. My feet seemed to slide when I was pulling my shelter. Not as good as I thought they would be.