Ice Fishing Paradise: Top 10 US Spots to Catch Winter’s Biggest Fish
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Ice Fishing Spots Across America
As winter approaches, ice fishing becomes a prominent activity for enthusiasts. With the colder months ahead, it’s time to gear up for the hardwater season. To help you prepare, we’ve curated a list of the top ice fishing destinations across the US.
Related Info The 10 Best US Ice Fishing Destinations for 2024
From hidden gems to renowned freshwater fisheries, here are 10 excellent locations where you’re almost guaranteed a great fishing experience. Whether you’re planning a winter escape or looking for inspiration, check out these top spots.
Mat-Su Valley, AK
Just north of Anchorage, Alaska’s Matanuska-Susitna Valley, or Mat-Su, offers breathtaking scenery and superb ice fishing. The area boasts around 80 fishable lakes, many accessible by road. The season runs from November to April, with opportunities to catch King and Coho Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char, and Dolly Varden. Be prepared for extreme cold, and consider lodging in Anchorage or the valley itself. The 2024 Arctic Winter Games will also be held here in March
Shores and Islands, OH
Ohio’s Shores and Islands region, between Toledo and Cleveland, becomes a prime ice fishing destination as winter sets in. By mid-January, the ice is usually thick enough for fishing, with Walleye and Yellow Perch being the main targets. Key spots include Port Clinton, Catawba Island, Sandusky, and Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, renowned for its excellent ice fishing conditions.
Lake St. Clair, MI/ON
Located between Michigan and Ontario, Lake St. Clair offers excellent ice fishing opportunities. Despite its smaller size compared to the Great Lakes, it’s known for its great catches. Common winter targets include Yellow Perch and Walleye, but you might also reel in Muskellunge, Northern Pike, or even Sturgeon. Both the Detroit Metropolitan Area and the Canadian shores provide good access for anglers.
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, NE
In north-central Nebraska, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge features vast prairies and scenic lakes that become ideal ice fishing spots in winter. The refuge has nine fishable lakes, with more nearby. Species such as Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie, and Perch are commonly caught. Merritt Reservoir, an hour west, offers additional variety including Walleye and Muskellunge. This refuge combines natural beauty with diverse fishing opportunities.
Schroon Lake, NY
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York, Schroon Lake is famous for its clean waters and excellent ice fishing. The lake is home to Lake Trout, landlocked Salmon, Bass, Pike, Chain Pickerel, and Crappie. The ice usually forms by January and remains until late March. An annual ice fishing tournament in early March makes it a lively time to visit. Lodging on the lake’s western shore provides convenient access to the fishing areas.
Green Bay, WI
Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Lake Michigan, is renowned for its ice fishing. The ice typically thickens by early January and lasts until late March, offering plenty of time for anglers. Target species include Walleye, Yellow Perch, Northern Pike, and Whitefish. You can start your fishing adventure in Green Bay or head to Sturgeon Bay, another excellent winter fishing location.
Eleven Mile Reservoir, CO
An hour west of Colorado Springs, Eleven Mile Reservoir is a top destination for ice fishing. Surrounded by mountains, it offers stunning views and great fishing for Rainbow, Brown, and Cutthroat Trout. Northern Pike and Kokanee Salmon are also occasional catches. The lake hosts the Colorado Classic tournament during winter, and the area is ideal for ice skating and skiing.
Lake Cascade, ID
Located in the Boise National Forest, two hours north of Idaho’s capital, Lake Cascade is known for its beautiful setting and outstanding ice fishing. The lake is home to Trout and jumbo Yellow Perch, with several state records reported in recent years. The area also offers trails, snowmobiles for rent, and a dog sled race. Lodging options in Cascade and Donnelly provide easy access to the lake.
Brainerd, MN
Brainerd, Minnesota, is renowned for its ice fishing with its surrounding 450 lakes, including Gull Lake, Leech Lake, and Mille Lacs. The area is famous for large Walleye, Trout, Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, and more. Brainerd hosts the world’s largest charitable ice fishing tournament and offers various winter activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and winter biking.
Devils Lake, ND
Often considered the top ice fishing destination in the US, Devils Lake in North Dakota is known for its prolific fishing. During winter, you can catch Walleye, Northern Pike, and trophy Perch, with generous bag limits. The lake also offers ice skating, tubing, sledding, and snowmobiling. It’s a perfect spot for winter sports enthusiasts