A simple triggering tip-up device, for use with a conventional ice fishing rod and reel, includes a base, a rod holder, an indicator flag, and a trigger mechanism. The base provides a stable platform for the rod holder and indicator flag to be removably attached to one end and a U-shaped trigger mechanism is rotatably mounted at the other end. The trigger mechanism has a long leg on one end and a short leg on the opposite end. The long leg secures a fishing line being fed from a reel with an open bail while the short leg holds the indicator flag in the “set” position. The action of a fish pulling the line raises the legs of the trigger mechanism causing stored energy from the flag shaft to be released resulting in the release of both the indicator flag and the fishing line.Although the present invention primarily relates to ice fishing it would not be unreasonable to apply this invention to open water fishing. Conventional open water fishing rods could be used with this device when set on a dock, in a boat, or on the shore line.
