If the fish aren't biting...

[Jmorfish]

For perch fishing (on ice) I'm using 2 rods, 2 different baits..in tent, and rod handles close together..Of course these don't always work, but I am often changing tactics with both poles...ei, up/down action on 1 while dead sticking the other, then reversing for each pole...sometimes a rod in each hand, slowly lifting each, hold, lift again....that's what I call "up and down the ladder"....sometimes while holding both rods, I'll gently use a "1 up, 1 down" motion.. but with 2 rods in hand, you REALLY have to be sensitive to that tiny bite, and be able to react fast, and quickly drop your other rod...Still fish on the bottom with not much reaction?..let 1 set up about 2' higher, dead stick, and watch 1 or 2 come up for a look, and once in awhile actually smack it...Still nothing?..sometimes just pull your lure/bait up 4 or 5', out of their range for a minute, then send it back down, and be ready for that immediate, tiny tap...'cuz remember, sometimes "absence makes the heart grow fonder"....And if none of this works, reel everything back up, check your bait, take time for a snack and drink, or move....Guluk...