Have you ever looked at a frozen lake and wondered if people fish through the ice? It might seem strange at first, but ice fishing is easier than you think. It’s quiet, calm, and a great way to enjoy winter. Some people go with friends to catch panfish. Others go alone for peace and fresh air. This beginner’s guide will help you get started step by step. You’ll learn about the gear you need, how to stay safe, and a few tips from real trips on the ice. Let’s help you enjoy your first ice fishing day.
Table of Contents
What is used for ice fishing?
Ice fishing takes more than a rod and a hole in the ice. You need gear made for freezing temps, strong winds, and cold hands. I’ve spent many winter mornings out there. Trust me, good gear makes everything better.
Here’s what I use and why it matters.
Ice Fishing Equipment
Venturing out onto the frozen water demands more than just a brave spirit; it requires the right gear to stay warm, safe, and, most importantly, successful. From the auger that drills your gateway to the deep to the tiny spring bobber signaling a bite, every piece plays a crucial role.
A good shelter, whether a pop-up shanty or a more robust hub-style, can be the difference between a quick trip and a full day on the ice, especially when the wind howls off Lake Superior. Don’t skimp on the layers either—a quality ice fishing suit from brands like Striker or Clam provides insulation and crucial flotation in case of an unexpected plunge into the frigid depths, a grim scenario no one wants to face but must prepare for.
Ice Fishing Rod
Ice rods are short, usually 2 to 3 feet long. But don’t let their size fool you. They’re strong.
My favorite rod has a soft tip but a strong backbone. It helps me feel light bites, even when my fingers are half-frozen. I once used a beat-up rod I bought on sale and still managed to land a 19-inch walleye. Not bad for a rod that barely fit in my backpack.
I also keep a homemade rod that my uncle made. It has a wooden handle and fiberglass tip taped together, ugly, but it still works like a charm. It reminds me that you don’t always need fancy gear to have a good time.
Inline Ice Fishing Reels
Inline reels are game-changers for ice anglers. They allow your line to descend straight down without twisting it. That means less tangling and easier jigging.
I used to use a simple spinning reel, but after I tried an inline, I never went back. I remember changing reels in the middle of a slow day. I could feel the bait better. I even caught a picky crappie that barely pulled on the line. Spin-cast reels are easy to use. That’s why beginners like these reels.
Fishing Bait
The perfect lure or live bait can truly make or break your ice fishing expedition. While artificial jigs in vibrant colors like chartreuse or fire-tiger often tempt aggressive panfish, sometimes only the real deal will do. Many seasoned anglers on Minnesota’s Mille Lacs Lake swear by small shiners or fatheads for walleye, presenting them just above the lakebed.
For crappies, tiny wax worms or eurolarvae on a small teardrop jig often prove irresistible. It’s a bit of a dark art, figuring out what the fish want on any given day, often requiring a subtle touch and a willingness to experiment with different presentations. Sometimes, the difference between a full bucket and an empty one is simply a tiny piece of Gulp! Maggot or a live minnow twitching enticingly.
Ice Fishing Lures
Sometimes, fish want more flash. That’s when I use lures instead of jigs.
I like flutter spoons. They drop slowly and twist as they fall, catching the light. One time, I dropped a gold flutter spoon down the hole, and a northern pike slammed it before it even hit bottom. Felt like a small freight train on the other end of the line.
Demon jigs also work great. Their reflective bodies shine in low light, which helps on cloudy days. If I’m targeting big predators, I’ll tip my lure with a minnow to seal the deal.
Ice Shanty
I can still recall the first time I was in a shanty during that snowstorm. Outside, the wind was roaring, but inside the little shelter, it was warm and comforting. It’s very wonderful and toasty! Ice shanties make those lengthy trips so much more fun.
Portable shanties are like tents that you put up on the ice. It’s portable and just pops up.
Permanent shelters are similar to small cabins. It was great to go fishing in Minnesota! There were bunk beds and a heater in the room, which made it feel homey. I really didn’t want to attend.
Ice Fishing Jigs
Ice jigs are small but mighty. They sink fast and get the job done under thick ice.
Most are made from tungsten or lead. Tungsten is my favorite. It drops quickly and helps me feel every tiny nibble. I often tip my jigs with wax worms or little plastics. One cold morning, a bright green jig with a wax worm pulled in four perch in under an hour. It was non-stop action.
These jigs come in cool shapes too: diamond heads, spoons, or ones that wiggle like bugs. If the water is murky, I go with a glow-in-the-dark one. Fish like bluegill, perch, and walleye can’t help themselves.
Ice Fishing Gear
A good auger saves your back. I use a hand auger early in the season when the ice is thin. Later, my friend comes with a gas auger, and we drill holes quickly.
Don’t forget the ice scoop! I did once, and my hole kept freezing over. It’s always in my bucket now.
Tip-ups are great for days when you don’t want to fish. I set up a few, drink hot cocoa, and wait for the flag to pop.
Always wear cleats and have ice picks for safety. I slid once close to the hole and almost fell into the water.
It’s important to wear warm garments too. Wear additional garments, cover your ears, and keep your hands dry. Cold hands make a trip end abruptly.
Antique Ice Fishing Pole
Poles from the past tell stories. I’ve seen wooden rods that were carved by hand and given to me by my grandparents. One acquaintance brought an old fishing rod with a cork handle and a metal reel. We didn’t catch much that day, but it was nice to have that piece of history.
Most old poles from the early 1900s had simple wooden handles and spools that didn’t turn. They didn’t look very nice, but they did the job. Individuals still use them to catch fish, but some individuals now collect them.
How to Start Ice Fishing in Just 7 Steps
It could seem hard to start ice fishing, but it’s not as hard as you think. You may have fun with this winter sport if you have the correct gear, know how to stay safe, and are patient. Whether you go alone for some quiet time or with friends for a fun day, being prepared makes all the difference. This is an easy-to-follow instruction that will help you start fishing on the ice.
Learn the Rules
First, check the fishing rules where you plan to go. You may need a fishing license. Find out the season dates and catch limits. Local agencies often patrol during ice fishing season.
Put Safety First
Ice can be dangerous. Before you step out onto the ice, always check how thick it is. Four inches is the least amount of space needed to walk. The ice should be at least 5 or 6 inches thick if you use an ATV or snowmobile. Put on layers of warm garments. To keep safe, bring safety gear like ice picks, a rope, and cleats.
Gather Your Gear
You’ll need some special tools for ice fishing:
- An ice auger or chisel to cut a hole in the ice.
- A short ice fishing rod with a sensitive tip and an inline or spinning reel.
- Jigs, lures, and bait like wax worms or minnows.
- An ice scoop to clear ice chips from your hole.
- A portable ice shelter to block the wind and stay warm.
Pick Your Spot
Choose a lake or pond known for its fish, such as perch, walleye, or trout. Ask local bait shops or check online for good spots. You may also use maps to find public access locations.
Drill and Drop Your Line
Make a hole that is 6 to 8 inches deep with your auger or chisel. Take the ice chips and slush out. Put your bait or jig in the water. In the winter, fish generally linger near the bottom, so make sure your line is low enough for them.
Watch and Adjust
If you don’t get bites after a while, try moving your jig differently or switch to a different bait. If nothing’s biting after 15 or 20 minutes, drill a new hole and try again.
Clean Up
Pack out everything you brought. Don’t leave trash or unused bait behind. Respect the land and local rules.
Ice fishing is a great way to enjoy winter and catch fish. Take it slow, dress warm, and keep safety in mind. Soon, you’ll be hooked on this incredible sport!
Ice Fishing Pro Trips
When you have a vacation planned, ice fishing is more fun and less stressful. A little planning goes a long way, whether you go on a guided vacation or do it yourself. These ideas can help you have a fun and safe day on the ice.
Guided Trips
Getting a guide can be a great way to learn if you’ve never been ice fishing before. Guides have everything you need. They know where to go and how to stay safe. Many guides have heated shelters where you may stay warm while fishing. They also teach you how to catch more fish. With guided trips, you don’t have to guess what’s going to happen. You can just have fun.
DIY Ice Fishing Getaways
Are you ready to do it on your own? Choose a lake that is known for having great ice fishing and check to see if the ice is thick enough before you arrive. Bring everything you need, like an auger, a rod, bait, a place to stay, and safety gear. It’s safer and more fun to go fishing with a companion. Pack snacks and hot liquids to keep your energy up.
Advice for Folks who are going on their First Trip
Take a short trip that lasts less than half a day to start. It can be freezing and challenging to fish on ice. Watch the weather and ice conditions closely. Dress in layers and bring extra socks. Always tell someone where you’re going. Most importantly, have fun and don’t rush. The fish will bite when they’re ready.
Ice fishing trips can be peaceful or social adventures. Whether guided or solo, with the right prep, you’ll make great memories on the ice.
Catch and Release Ice Fishing with a Mormyshka
If you love ice fishing and want to fish responsibly, using a mormyshka is a great option. It’s a tiny jig with a metal body and a single hook that looks like a small bug. I first tried one on a calm winter morning, jigging over a shallow spot. I caught a handful of panfish and didn’t harm a single one. It was one of my best catch-and-release days.
The mormyshka’s small size works well for bluegill, perch, and crappie. Since it hooks fish in the lip, it’s easy to remove the hook and get them back in the water. I mash down the barb, wear wet gloves, and return the fish in under 10 seconds. That helps them stay strong and healthy.
To fish with it, I drop the jig where I see fish on my flasher. Then I give it light taps to make it move like prey. When I feel a bite, I lift the rod and remove the hook fast.
Fishing with a mormyshka is simple and good for the fish. It lets you enjoy the action while keeping the lake full for the next trip.
Ice Fishing Safety
Even the calmest lake can turn risky if you’re not careful. Ice fishing is fun, but safety must come first. Here’s what to watch out for and how to stay safe out there.
Dangers and Safety Precautions
Falling through thin ice is the most significant danger. Always carry ice picks and wear a float suit or life jacket. Fish with a buddy; it’s safer and more fun. Keep a rope and whistle in your gear. If you fall in or see someone else go through, these tools can help fast.
Ice Thickness Guide
- 4 inches—safe to walk
- 5–7 inches – safe for ATVs
- 8–12 inches – safe for cars or small trucks
I always check the ice with a spud bar every few steps, especially at the beginning or end of the season.
Watch for Hypothermia
Cold wind and wet clothes can lead to hypothermia. I’ve seen it sneak up on people fast. Wear dry, warm layers. If you start shivering hard or feel confused, get warm right away.
Ice Fishing Vehicle Safety
Driving on ice adds risk. Go slow and keep windows cracked. Don’t park close to others. I wait until there are at least 8 inches of solid, clear ice before driving my ATV out. Better safe than sorry!
Final Thought
Ice fishing is more than a winter hobby. It’s a peaceful escape and a test of patience. If you have the correct gear, know how to be safe, and are interested in fishing, you’ll go from a beginner to an expert in no time. Start easy, fish slowly, and appreciate every cold moment. Soon, you’ll be telling your own fish stories from a lake that is frozen.
What is the safest ice thickness for fishing?
Honestly, there’s no such thing as “100% safe ice.” Conditions can shift in a heartbeat due to currents, snow cover, or even sneaky underwater springs. That said, the Minnesota DNR has some pretty solid guidelines for new, clear ice. If you’re planning to walk out, you’ll want at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice. For snowmobiles or small ATVs, you’re looking at 5-7 inches. Anything heavier, like a small car, needs 9-10 inches, and if you’re bringing a full-size truck, you’d better see at least 13-17 inches. Always remember, if the ice looks milky or has a lot of snow on top, it’s weaker—you need to practically double those thickness recommendations. And for heaven’s sake, always check with a spud bar or auger as you go; ice thickness can vary wildly, even just a few feet away.
Do I need a special license for ice fishing in Minnesota?
You don’t need a separate “ice fishing” license in Minnesota, but you need a general fishing license. If you’re a Minnesota resident between 16 and 89 years old, you’ll need one. Non-residents, pretty much everyone 16 and older, need a license too, unless they’re 15 or younger and fishing with a licensed parent or guardian. Remember, your regular Minnesota fishing license covers ice fishing, but if you plan on setting up a dark house or any other fixed shelter, you’ll need an additional shelter license. Those are good for one or three years, and the cost depends on whether you own or rent the shelter. You can snag these licenses online through the Minnesota DNR, over the phone, or just swing by most bait shops and sporting goods stores. Make sure you’ve got your ID and social security number handy.
