Ice Fishing For Beginners – How to Get Started

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So, you’re thinking about trying ice fishing but aren’t sure where to start? Ice fishing is one of my favorite winter hobbies, so you’re in the right place! Let’s go over the basics so you can hit the ice with confidence.

Is Ice Fishing For You?

If you enjoy peace and quiet, a bit of patience, and don’t mind the cold, then yes—ice fishing might just be your new favorite winter hobby. But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of freezing your toes off; with the right gear, you’ll be nice and toasty while you wait for the fish to bite. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of pulling a fish through a hole in the ice—it’s exhilarating!

Some people choose the simple approach for ice fishing, but you can also load up on all of the gear to make your trip a little more enjoyable, and warm! It all comes down to personal preference. Some say all you need is an ice fishing pole, bait, tackle, an ice auger, and a bucket to sit on. If you plan on spending a lot of time out on the ice, you may want to splurge and get a hut and a Mr. Buddy heater.

My Ice Fishing Story – How I Got Involved

We’ll get into the nitty gritty of ice fishing, such as what you’ll need as a bare minimum, and any extras you may want. But first, I’ll tell you a little bit about myself and how I got into ice fishing, especially as someone who does not like being cold!

The first time I ever went ice fishing, I was about 15 years old. My parents had bought a campground on a lake in the highlands of the PNW. We quickly realized with the lake being frozen for up to five months of the year, we would have to learn how to ice fish to keep ourselves busy in the winter. Several years later, in 2023, we started an annual fishing derby. It’s been a huge event every year, with people coming from all over the state to enter! It’s so much fun to be involved and see all of the happy faces ice fishing out on the lake!

Ice fishing is family friendly, we have brought our kids out with us since they were babies. It definitely makes things a little more challenging, but it is so worth it teaching them and bringing them along! Our kids are now 4 and 5 and they love ice fishing as much as we do!

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What You Need to Get Started Ice Fishing:

What You Need to Get Started

You don’t need a ton of fancy gear to start ice fishing, but a few essentials will make your experience much better:

• Fishing License – First things first, make sure you have the proper fishing license for your state or region.
• Ice Auger – This is what you’ll use to drill a hole in the ice. Manual augers work fine for beginners, but gas or battery-powered ones make life easier.
• Ice Rod & Reel – Ice fishing rods are much shorter than regular fishing rods, making them easier to manage when you’re fishing through a hole.
• Bait & Lures – Live bait like minnows, maggots, or mealworms are great for most fish, but jigs and artificial baits work too.
• Ice Scoop – Once you drill a hole, you’ll need to scoop out the ice shavings so your hole stays open and clear.
• Warm Clothing – Layers are your best friend! Think insulated waterproof boots, thermal socks, gloves, and a good float jacket and bibs.
• Shelter (Optional) – If you plan on staying out for a while, a pop-up ice fishing tent will help keep you warm and out of the wind.
• Heater (Optional) – A Mr. Buddy heater is a great addition to having a shelter, especially when it gets windy with the frigid temps!

Finding a Good Ice Fishing Spot

Not all frozen lakes are safe for ice fishing, so make sure to check the ice thickness before heading out.
A good rule of thumb:

• 4 inches of clear ice = safe for walking
• 6-8 inches = safe for snowmobiles and ATVs
• 12+ inches = safe for small trucks

If you’re not sure where to go, check with local bait shops or fishing forums for popular ice fishing spots in your area.

How to Ice Fish (Step-by-Step)

1. Drill Your Hole – Use your auger to make a hole in the ice. A 6- to 8-inch hole is ideal for most fishing.
2. Scoop Out the Slush – Use your ice scoop to clear out any slush and keep the hole open.
3. Drop Your Line – Bait your hook and lower your line into the water. Most fish hang out near the bottom, so start there and adjust if needed.
4. Wait for the Bite – This is where patience comes in! Jig your bait gently to attract fish and watch for any movement on your rod tip.
5. Set the Hook & Reel It In – Once you feel a bite, give a quick tug to set the hook, then reel in your catch!

Safety Tips for Ice Fishing

• Always check ice thickness before stepping on it.
• Never go alone. Ice fishing is more fun (and safer) with a buddy.
• Carry safety gear. Ice picks, a rope, and a life jacket could save your life if you fall in.
• Watch the weather. Snowstorms and changing ice conditions can be dangerous.
• Be mindful of others. Keep a respectful distance from other anglers and their fishing holes.

What Can You Catch?

The fish you’ll catch depends on where you’re fishing, but common species include:

• Panfish (Bluegill, Perch, Crappie) – Great for beginners and taste amazing fried.
• Walleye – A prized catch with delicious fillets.
• Northern Pike – Aggressive fighters that make for exciting catches.
• Trout – Found in cold, deep lakes and great for eating.

Final Thoughts

Ice fishing is one of those things that might seem intimidating at first, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked (pun totally intended). It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors in winter, put some fresh fish on the table, and maybe even make some fun memories with friends and family. So bundle up, grab your gear, and get out there!

Happy fishing!

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