Death by Man-Eating Fish

Dear Andrew,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful response to my original email. I called last Friday and we’ve booked an ice fishing hut for the night of Saturday, February 11th. We’re both very excited.

However, I have some additional questions that I couldn’t find the answers to on your website:

1. What time should we arrive? (I couldn’t find the times on your website for when “night” ice fishing runs.) In order to get an intro to ice fishing, what would be a good time to arrive? (As is probably clear from my questions, the more guidance we receive, the better.)

2. I know the huts are heated, but how cold will it be during the night? Should we bring winter camping gear (ie-sleeping bags) or will regular-strength sleeping bags be sufficient? Other than food and tackle, is there anything else we should bring?

3. I’ve read that ice fishing requires being quiet. Do you think that we’ll keep the fish away if we quietly talk about our feelings while in the hut?

4. How long does it take to get an ice fishing license? (Would we just be able to stop at Bass Pro Shops on our way up? Or would it be advisable to secure them further in advance?)

5. Chloé’s mom is concerned that Chloé will fall in. I’m not sure if she was referring to falling through the hole or through the ice in general. (I’m assuming the latter is her primary concern since I’m guessing the hole isn’t a giant gaping hole in the ice?) Chloé just turned 27, so it’s important that she doesn’t fall through the ice and die at this juncture in her life. (Although if fish do get lonely, I’m sure they’d appreciate her company.) Has this ever occurred?

6. In my hometown of Cold Lake, Alberta, there is a giant man-eating fish called the Kinosoo. Locals say that’s why the trout in the lake are so large—they’re descendants of the Kinosoo. (Chloé and I are pretty sure we heard the Kinosoo one night while we were skating on the lake. It was terrifying.) Are there any giant man-eating fish that we should be aware of?

Finally, we’d love if we can rent rods and if you’d be willing to fillet a fish for Chloé (assuming we catch anything). You’re also more than welcome to join us for a game of Scrabble or a beer, if it comes to that.

Best,

Jessica