Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪs fˈɪʃ] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the term meaning fishing through ice is "ice fish". The word "ice" is spelled /aɪs/, with a long "i" sound, and "fish" is spelled /fɪʃ/, with the "sh" sound at the end. When combined, the word is pronounced as /aɪs.fɪʃ/. This popular winter pastime involves drilling a hole in the ice and catching fish through it. It requires careful preparation and equipment to ensure safety on the frozen water.
Ice fish refers to a type of fish that has adapted to survive in freezing temperatures and icy environments, primarily found in polar or subpolar regions where lakes and rivers freeze over during winter. It is a versatile term that encompasses multiple species of fish, often including the Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus), and various species of whitefish (Coregonus), such as the Arctic cisco (Coregonus autumnalis) and inconnu (Stenodus leucichthys).
Ice fish are renowned for their ability to withstand extreme cold conditions and have unique physiological adaptations to their environment. One significant adaptation is the presence of antifreeze proteins in their body fluids, preventing ice crystals from forming within their cells. They also possess advanced oxygen-carrying capabilities within their blood to cope with decreased oxygen levels in icy waters.
Due to the seasonal changes in their habitat, ice fish have specific feeding habits. During winter, when lakes and rivers freeze, they rely on nutrients stored in their bodies, feeding sporadically until spring when food sources become available again. They are remarkable in their ability to survive extended periods of reduced metabolic activity, often lowering their metabolic rate and conserving energy during this time.
Ice fishing is a popular recreational activity in areas where ice fish populations thrive, involving the use of various techniques such as drilling holes in the ice, setting up lines with baited hooks, and using specialized ice fishing gear. It provides an opportunity for anglers to catch these resilient fish species during the cold winter months when traditional fishing methods are impractical.
The word "ice fish" is a compound noun consisting of "ice" and "fish". Let's examine the etymology of both words:
1. "Ice":
The term "ice" originated from the Old English word "īs". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*īsaz". This term is also related to the Old Norse word "ís" and the Dutch word "ijs". All these words can be ultimately traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₁éyHs", meaning "ice" or "frost".
2. "Fish":
The word "fish" originated from the Old English word "fisc". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*fiskaz" and is further related to the Old High German word "fisc", the Old Norse word "fiskr", and the Gothic word "fisks".
