6 Best Ice Fishing Spots in the US
The winter season is upon us and you most likely do not want to store your fishing gear for the next few months until the warmer weather reappears. Well, don't be concerned! There are numerous ice fishing locations in the United States that provide an incredible angling experience.
We have highlighted six of our all-time favorite places that offer more than just ice fishing.
1. Devils Lake, North Dakota
Due to the size of its water body, Devils Lake made our list of the best ice fishing spots in the United States. It has over 100,000 acres of ice, providing a variety of fishing opportunities on the ice and along the shoreline. And, no matter where you go or how many anglers there are, there will be enough room to hunt for a catch.
In addition, Devils Lake is home to a variety of fish species such as Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, White Bass, and Crappies. There are maps and bait shops nearby if you need more bait or are just getting started. There are also professional fishing guides available if you require their services.
The best period to visit Devils Lake for ice fishing is from mid-December to March. During this time, the ice is thick enough to support angling activities.
There are also other activities around the area to warm you up after hours of fishing. You can go for a cup of coffee downtown Devils Lake or engage in outdoor activities such as skiing at Grahams Island State Park.
2. Lake Habeeb, Maryland
Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the bluest waters of Lake Habeeb while ice fishing during winter. Lake Habeeb is surrounded by Rocky Gap State Park, giving you a remarkable view while on the ice.
Despite its small size of 243 acres, it is large enough for fishing with a variety of different species. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, sunfish, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, rainbow trout, and channel catfish can all be caught. Large catches weighing more than ten pounds have been recorded here, so be prepared!
If you are planning a long trip, there are accommodations near the Lake and Cumberland Town that are only a 10-minute drive away. There are also nearby tackle and bait shops if you weren't well prepared for the expedition.
Once done with your fishing, you can enjoy other outdoor activities such as hiking and winter camping at Green Ridge State Forest. Other common activities include cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and riding trails in nearby areas. Plus, you can go for a warm retreat in neighboring world-class hotels.
3. Lake of the Woods, Minnesota
Lake of the Woods (LOW) is an ice fishing destination not to be missed. It is the second-largest freshwater lake in the United States and provides a memorable and satisfying ice fishing experience. This lake has over 14,000 islands and is home to thousands of fish species such as lake trout, whitefish, perch, northern pike, and walleye. You also get approximately 65,000 miles of shoreline from which to fish.
There are also fishing guides and more than 50 resorts, rentals, hotels, and sleep fish houses, which provide many anglers with peace of mind during their visits. So, whether you're planning a short or long trip, there are a variety of lodging options to consider.
The best time to visit the LOW is from mid-December to March when the ice thickens. Apart from fishing, you can also engage in other winter activities such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing in nearby parks.
4. Boysen Reservoir, Wyoming
Wyoming is one of the best ice fishing locations in the US. And, if you happen to visit, Boysen Reservoir in Boysen State Park is one spot you do not want to miss.
Being the largest reservoir in the region and with abundant fish species, it presents one of the prime angling places during winter. Species available include Walleye, Perch, Largemouth bass, Mountain Whitefish, Sauger, and Lake and Brook Trout.
The snow-covered Owl Creek Mountains also give you amazing views while hunting for a catch. And, if you have been eagerly waiting for ice fishing season, go to the northern part of the lake as it freezes first.
After fishing, you can engage in other adventures such as snowshoeing and snowmobiling around the park.
5. Birch and Quartz Lakes, Alaska
Thanks to its accessibility, the Birch and Quartz Lakes is one of the spots that attracts many anglers as it is located right next to Richardson Highway. It offers the best fishing experience in winter, starting from October when the ice begins to thicken.
You can expect to reel in Landlocked Salmon, Arctic Char, Arctic Grayling, Lake Trout, and Rainbow Trout, among others. No worry about missing the catch as it is frequently stocked by Alaska's Fish and Game department.
Based on your target species and experience, you can fish from one or both lakes. Quartz boasts of trophy-sized species such as Rainbow Trout, Chinook salmon, Coho Salmon, and Arctic Char. On the other hand, Birch Lake tends to have smaller species of the ones I had mentioned, making it easier to catch.
Therefore, first-time anglers and children have a better chance in Birch Lake, with Quartz being the best for professionals.
6. Antero Reservoir, Colorado
Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, the Antero Reservoir in Colorado gives you a perfect spot for ice fishing. The trout species are abundant such as Greenback Cutthroat, Snake River Cutthroat, Brook, Rainbow, and Brown Trout. You can also land on other species like Splake and Kokanee Salmon.
Aside from the trophy-sized fish in the Antero Reservoir, the striking natural beauty of the area adds to the enjoyment of the trip. As a result, the area attracts a lot of anglers on weekends, so if you want some solitude, plan your trip on weekdays.
Other winter activities in Colorado include sleigh ride dinners, snow tubing, ice climbing, and snowshoeing.
Key Takeaways & Insights
There you have it! You do not have to stop your fishing activity during winter. Plan a trip to one of the destinations we have highlighted and build a memorable ice fishing experience. Besides, there are plenty of other activities to adventure in each spot after your fishing expedition!