Freezing temps and winter storms have hit a large chunk of the county this week. Many people would associate these weather events with staying indoors and canceled flights. To an ice fisher, freezing temps mean a better chance for ice fishing conditions and a chance to get out and reel some in. When it comes to fixed bodies of water like a lake that have a set volume: the more days it freezes, the more the water is going to solidify. So, the further into winter you get, the better your chance of being able to ice fish. If your first thought after seeing the weather report this week was, “I can’t wait to get on the ice,” this post is for you. Here are some great states for ice fishing to kickstart the planning for your next trip.

Higgins Lake, Michigan

Higgins Lake offers perch and panfish near its shoreline and trout can be found in the middle of the lake. Because it is deeper, this lake takes a bit longer to freeze than others, so waiting until January and February will benefit you if you’re looking to fish this lake. For safety, you want to make sure the ice is thick and completely frozen before stepping on it or putting out your Stump Ice House. Check the ice’s thickness before you venture onto the surface. Higgins Lake also makes the list of most beautiful lakes: it was ranked as the 6th most beautiful lake in the world by National Geographic, according to the lake’s website.

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is a classic choice for many lake activities and ice fishing is no exception. Covering four states: Michigan, Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin, you can enjoy fishing this lake in a variety of cities. With an array of trout fishing options, Lake Michigan could produce a great choice for your next fish fry. As the Michigan DNR page mentions, all of the fish you can find during the summer will be available to catch during the winter months. Some may even be easier to catch in the winter.

Lake Champlain, Vermont

Lake Champlain in Vermont also ranks among the top locations for ice fishing. The lake’s shoreline spans 120 miles and stretches into New York and Quebec. You’ll be able to pull your Stump Ice House with you along the entire shore thanks to the ski base and steel hitch to fish for landlocked salmon, lake trout, northern pike, yellow perch, white perch, walleye, and crappie. The season lasts all the way through March 15.

Lake of the Woods, Minnesota

Lake of the Woods is one of the largest inland freshwater lakes in the mainland. A plethora of species can be found in the lake, including walleyes, saugers, northern pike, eelpout, jumbo perch and tulibee. The Lake of the Woods website mentions that you could snag a 40-inch pike if you’re lucky. Our Stump Ice Houses, like our Stump 2 Ice “Phantom,” have enough room to fit a large container for your fish haul. As always, check your local regulations to learn about the bag limit in that state.

Wherever you decide to spend your ice fishing trip, our Stump Ice Houses can travel with you and can help you enjoy a comfortable experience, even in cold winter temperatures. You can mount your rods, heaters, lights and other necessities to the rigid walls to keep everything accessible and within arm’s reach.

What are your top ice fishing destinations? Let us know where you’ve had ice fishing success in the comments below!

 

 

Leave a Comment