Over the past few years, small, soft plastics have really taken off in popularity among anglers, especially during the winter months. With old man winter officially here, many lakes across the Midwest have been glazed with ice, ceasing growth of aquatic plants due to the lack of sunlight penetration. With insects and minnow hatches taking place during the growing months (spring and summer) panfish seek out smaller and less plentiful food, such as plankton during the winter. This is where small, soft plastics have gained popularity as they tempt and entice panfish better than minnows, jigs, or other larger profile lures. Throughout my years of fishing I can count numerous times where panfish would decline me no matter the lure I threw at them. Often I was using a jig or small spoon that was far too heavy or large.  With the use of tiny jigs paired with plastics, panfish have no problem inhaling these types of baits and are far less caution when approaching them as they imitate plankton. A 2-4 pound monofilament test matched with the tiny jig plastic combination gives me an action that is irresistible to panfish when jigged. This presentation can be utilized anywhere in the country and I would not consider it just an ice fishing technique. Add some small to tiny jigs and plastics to your arsenal and give this technique a try today. I will bet panfish will not be able to resist this combination, helping you put more fish in the frying pan. For those of you venturing out on the ice take great caution this winter and stay safe. Good Fishing.