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Ice Bib (and Boot) Questions

2.5K views 8 replies 7 participants last post by  sherman51  
#1 ·
Hey guys. I am in the market for some new ice bibs and boots. OK, honestly, my first first bibs. I have been wearing my ski pants from when I lived in Denver. They were awesome. Waterproof, warm, comfortable but they have finally gave out and I'm not spending 400 bucks on another pair for an activity I don't do much anymore. So I have been researching bibs and have narrowed to these two.

Striker Ice Predator and Clam Ice Armor Edge Blue

Most reviews I read rave about the Predators and they seem to be the best and warmest. But here is my problem. I don't use only for ice fishing. My favorite time to catfish the ohio river is winter time. And sometime bait takes a while so I end up throwing cast net a ton (this is usually in 15-35 degree temps). I need waterproof, big time. Also, I fish alot down south in the winter and it's usually 30-45 and sleeting. I am sure the predators would be great if all I did was erie ice (which I do occasionally) but I think the predator might be TOO warm for some of my applications. With the Clam's, it seems you just need to layer a little more on the cold cold days. That's no problem. I have skied Wyoming in -35 with 50 mph winds above tree line. I got the layers. So which bibs do you guys think?

Now for boots: I am really picky about my feet. I HATE high cut boots. I know that is part of the equation to warmth but I'll sacrifice a little bit, and I'm usually OK with base socks and wool over them. I am looking for a lower cut boot that will have the best warmth I can get. these are leading the way so far: Cabelas Snow Runner I know these will be warm enough for down here, how about erie? And anybody have any knowledge on waterproofness? Once again, throwing cast net for an hour or two. If not waterproof I will be cold as they will be WET.

Thanks so much guys!!!
 
#2 ·
Striker makes a great bib and jacket. I have a lot of friends that use them. I have the Frabill I3 Series bibs and love them. Plenty warm and waterproof. I also have the Bass Pro Pro Qualifier bibs and jacket that I use for rain gear but can also layer underneath it and wear for ice fishing.

Only way to go for boots for ice fishing are the Mickey Mouse boots. I got mine for $40 last year from an army surplus store in PA.
 
#3 ·
Vexilar makes a good product too. Check out their bibs. I've had mine for 5 years and I'm going to get a new pair this year. Very warm.

As far as boots I just bought a pair of lacrosse alpha lite rubber boots that I look forward to using for deer hunting/ ice fishing. Mills fleet farm had them on sale for $61 form $159
 
#8 ·
Another idea that may work for you...

I'm a big guy, and I'm not a fan of bibs at all. They restrict my movement and I move around and drill a lot of holes manually.

I like waterproof snow pants with adjustable elastic waist, pac boots, and a long warm snow parka with a big hood.

Easy to stay mobile and parka can be unzipped or removed when the sun comes out and a carhartt hoodie is enough.

Sierra Trading Post has great deals.