Ice fishing tips, gear & trips
Hardwater season is some of my favorite fishing of the year. These ice fishing posts cover how I find and catch crappie and walleye through the ice, the rods, reels and electronics I rely on, and staying warm when it’s well below zero.
Planning a trip? My Lake of the Woods guide walks through species, DIY vs. all-inclusive packages and where to stay.
Start here · complete guideIce Fishing for Crappie: Lures, Locations & TipsThe 10 lures I trust through the ice, where crappie hold all winter, and the small adjustments that turn marks into fish.Posts
5 Proven Ice Fishing Tips to Catch More Crappie This Ice Season
Ice fishing for crappie doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little research and some dedication, even beginners can start putting fish on the ice with ease. The key? Be strategic about where you fish, how (and when) you fish, and what presentations you brin
Ice Fishing Lake of the Woods: Your Complete Guide to Planning the Perfect Trip
When it comes to ice fishing Lake of the Woods, there’s never a shortage of action. On the good days, you’re slamming trophy walleye. On the slow days, you’re still catching sauger, burbot, and plenty of slot fish. And on the really fun days? You’re reeling up
The Ultimate Holiday Ice Fishing Gift Guide 2025
Shopping for an ice angler this holiday season? Whether they’re a hardcore walleye chaser or a panfish enthusiast who loves a full day on the ice (or you just want to gift yourself something), finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve put t
Why DSG Makes the BEST Ladies Ice Fishing Suits
Stay warm, dry, and comfortable on the ice with DSG Outerwear. Discover the superior features and unmatched quality that make DSG ice fishing suits the top choice for women anglers.
Ice Fishing questions I get asked
What do I need to start ice fishing?
The essentials are an auger, a flasher, a shelter and warm layers. If you can only upgrade one thing, get a flasher or sonar unit, because it makes every trip better. You'll see fish come up to your bait and learn how they react.
What are the best lures for walleye on Lake of the Woods through the ice?
Spoons tipped with a minnow head are always productive. Lake of the Woods has stained, dark water, so stick with flashy, glow and noise-making lures. Minnesota allows two lines, so I always run a dead stick too: a bobber or dangler with a plain hook, split shot and a minnow.
Should I book a resort for early ice on Lake of the Woods?
Yes. Early in the season, before the lake fully ices up, I recommend booking through a resort. They know where the fish are biting and, more importantly, they understand the safety limits when ice conditions are still unpredictable. My Lake of the Woods ice guide covers the rest.
How do you catch more crappie through the ice?
Start on smaller lakes with limited structure, since fish have fewer places to hide. Confirm which species are actually in the lake, then use your flasher to find suspended fish. Keep your jig horizontal and be patient. Plenty of crappie follow a jig up and only commit at the last second. Here's my full ice crappie guide.
