Beginner

What area of the state are you in?

D, It might be tough to find stuff in Pittsburgh right now. Most retailers cut back as the season ends, and stock back up in the fall. Try Gander Mountain in Robinson. FishUSA.com is a good source on line. I purchased an auger last year, and the service was very good at FishUSA! You'll want a few tip-ups, and jigging rods. The terminal tackle is like you use for regular fishing. Like anything else, you can go cheap, or drop a lot of cash for gear. Lots of guys make their own stuff, and that is part of the fun. It's slow now, but check out iceshanty.com in the fall. You can learn a lot. I'd be happy to help you out next winter. Just shoot me a PM. I fish a lot at Lake Arthur, Wilhelm, and Pyme.

You could search past post on this board as to what you need as far as size & type of ice augers & whether you need you need tip ups or regular rods & reels. I personaly use ice rods instead of tip-ups because I don't like to get my hands wet & I like to feel the rod bend.I also like an 8" gas drill because I am disabled & it is easier to use than a hand drill. I do have a 6" hand drill also because it is easier to use than a 8" drill & is big enough for almost anything around here, Of course there are many different opinions about these suggestions.I would say that the first things you should get are ice cleats & safety picks, nothing is more important than safety in my opinion. It is a good idea to go with someone to see what it is all about,but the equipment can be as simple as you want,from your reg.fishing rod & reel to high end specialised gear. You should be able to find good used gear at flea markets or garage sales or even some web sites at good prices now. If you wait, you will pay more, which doesn't make sense til you find out if you like it.Also, warm wind proof clothing can make the day. Good luck. sam

shoot me a pm when its time ill get on the ice with ya