a person standing in the middle of a snow covered field

Ice, Ice, Baby: The Essential Guide to Starting Ice Fishing

For many, January is a time to get back into the swing of things after the holiday frenzy, all while braving the biting cold. It's a month that can feel a bit dreary, leaving you yearning for the warmth of summer—imagining yourself barefoot by a sparkling lake, casting your line. But don’t worry! Ice fishing is the perfect way to scratch that angling itch and lift your winter spirits. While it may seem daunting for those who prefer summer fishing, we’ve got some great beginner tips to help you conquer the ice and start reeling in some catches.

1/13/20254 min read

The Essentials for Ice Fishing

Ice Fishing Rod and Reel: These are specially designed for ice fishing, featuring shorter lengths and greater durability than regular rods. Prices typically range from $25 to $100, but if you’re just getting started, consider picking up an affordable option from Walmart or your local outdoor store.

Ice Auger: To create a hole in the ice, you’ll need an auger. There are manual, gas-powered, and electric options, each with its advantages. If you use a manual auger, be ready to work up a sweat! Depending on the ice thickness, drilling a hole manually can be quite the workout. Also bring an ice scooper or ladle, this will save your hands from trying to shovel out the excess snow and ice from the hole.

Ice Fishing Shelter: A portable ice fishing shelter, or "shanty," can help protect you from the wind and cold. If it’s a nice day out, there’s no need to pop up a shelter—sitting on buckets or camp chairs works just fine! Pro Tip: If it’s colder than a witch’s tit in a brass bra, consider bringing a small space heater. It’ll work wonders!

Ice Fishing Tackle: You’ll need bait and lures, which can vary based on the species you’re targeting. We’ll dive deeper into this later.

Here's our little fishing tent up on Twin Lakes in Leadville, CO. This one fits about 8 comfortably. Like we said, no need to invest in a tent, but you may last longer if the weather is cold and the wind starts to whip.

Clothing: Layered clothing, including insulated pants, jackets, boots, and gloves, is essential to keep you warm. Don’t forget a hat and thermal socks.

Safety Equipment: Always carry an ice pick, rope, and a flotation device, just in case you fall through the ice.

Finding the Perfect Spot

Finding the right location is key to a successful ice fishing experience. While fish can be found in many frozen bodies of water, here are some tips to help you choose the best spot:

Target Species: Popular species for ice fishing include walleye, perch, northern pike, and trout. Different species tend to be found at varying depths and locations on the lake. For example, trout can be found just under the ice to about 15 feet below, while perch tend to hang out near the bottom or just above it.

Ice Thickness: Make sure the ice is thick enough to support your weight. A minimum of 4 inches of solid, clear ice is considered safe for walking, while thicker ice is required for driving vehicles. Bring a small hatchet to chop small holes and a tape measure to assess thickness.

Fish Habitats: Fish often gather near structures like drop-offs, submerged vegetation, and underwater humps. Pro Tip: Look for old fishing holes—it’s possible someone found a sweet spot, or at the very least, it’ll make drilling the hole a lot easier!

Setting Up Your Equipment

Once you’ve found your spot and drilled your hole, it’s time to set up your fishing gear:

Bait and Lures: Depending on the species you're after, you may want to use live bait like minnows or worms, or artificial lures. Jigging lures are a popular choice for attracting fish beneath the ice.

Line and Hooks: Ensure your line is designed for ice fishing, which is typically lighter than regular fishing line because fish beneath the ice are more sluggish and less likely to put up a fight than in warmer conditions. A 2-6 pound test line is usually your best bet.