First time ice fishing

Planning an ice fishing trip soon and since it is my first time i was wondering if anyone had any tips on bait selections, or locations to fish or anything helpful really. I live in Simsbury so somewhat close would be preferred. Thanks

Hey Pyro...let me make a suggestion, scope out some places you think you might want to fish, take a day and just take a walk on the ice and talk to guys fishing, most will be happy to talk and show off their catch if they have anything, ask them the same questions you are asking here, bait etc.
I could type for hours without any real specifics but I can give you a quick answer, shiners 6-12 inches off the bottom, if you are using tip-ups, and if you are going to jig, tip your jig with a wax worm, moussie, or meal worm.

There are some good tips on in fisherman if you want some general info. I have never been so I have no other info.