Avoid areas with several ice houses already in place and look for a different location, possibly at a different lake depth and structure. Also avoid noise that can spook the fish – after you drill your ice holes wait a short time before starting to fish.
Using black rubber o-rings to help secure the hook on your rod from coming loose from the hook guide, and using sinker stops to help with threaded bobber stops.
Braided line is extremely sensitive, has no stretch, and promotes a more solid hook set.
Fish tend to go into deeper water with a rising barometer, and tougher bite conditions often prevail.
Modern sonar is all the rage, but don’t forget a “vintage” techno-tool.
As the fish move, follow them.