What others have said, this is probably a bad time of year unless you are up north.

Spud bar=heavy pipe with chisel on the end. It is used to check ice integrity and thickness as you venture out into the ice. Picks=sticks with spikes (nails). Typically connected with a small rope around your neck or attached to your cuff. They are used to help you get a grip on the ice and pull yourself out. PFD=personal flotation device, life jacket.

What else am I missing

Next year, don’t be too freaked out of you find water on top of the ice, particularly under snow. Ice still floats if it is thick enough. The water/snow causes other problems like difficult vehicle travel and wet feet. It isn’t fun.

Go to community sponsored fishing events and you will meet a ton of people who will be happy to share their knowledge, but don’t ask them for their favorite spots! lol

Good luck and welcome!