Where to Go Ice Fishing in America: Top Cold-Weather Destinations

When winter sweeps across the northern U.S., a magical transformation takes place on the lakes. The surface freezes, locals bundle up, and anglers grab their augers and bait buckets for a distinctly cold-weather adventure—ice fishing.

This isn’t just a hobby; it’s a beloved seasonal ritual that blends patience, skill, and camaraderie with the stark beauty of frozen wilderness. From the Great Lakes to hidden mountain reservoirs, the U.S. is dotted with incredible ice fishing destinations worth braving the chill for.

So, grab your thermos, zip up that parka, and let’s explore some of the best ice fishing spots across the country. Whether you’re hoping for a trophy walleye, a bucket of perch, or just an unforgettable winter escape, these destinations deliver.

Lake of the Woods, Minnesota

If you talk to any serious ice angler, chances are Lake of the Woods comes up within minutes. Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, this massive lake is often called the “Walleye Capital of the World,” and for good reason.

Each winter, thousands of ice fishing shacks dot its frozen expanse—so many, in fact, that it looks like a small city of its own. The ice roads here stretch for miles, and outfitters provide heated shelters, snowmobile rentals, and guided trips for every experience level.

Don’t Miss:

Early-season walleye action near Pine Island.
Late-winter sauger and perch fishing on the main basin.
A warm-up at one of the cozy resorts around Baudette after a long day on the ice.

Devils Lake, North Dakota

Devils Lake has become legendary among ice fishing circles for its abundant perch and walleye. Known for unpredictable water levels that swallow old farmsteads and roads, the lake offers an eerie yet fascinating winter landscape.

When temperatures plunge, anglers head out with portable huts and power augers to chase jumbo perch and trophy pike. The local outfitters here are top-notch, often setting you up with heated shacks, GPS coordinates, and even on-ice transportation.

Tips for Anglers:

Bring an underwater camera to navigate submerged trees and structures.
Try early morning or dusk for the best perch bite.
Dress in layers—winds off the plains can be intense.

Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin

If you want a mix of classic Midwest charm and world-class fishing, Lake Winnebago is your place. It’s Wisconsin’s largest inland lake, famous for its lake sturgeon population and strong walleye, perch, and white bass numbers.

Each February, the lake turns into a frozen village during the annual sturgeon spearing season—one of the most unique fishing traditions in America. Even if you’re not into spearing, the vibe is incredible, with families and friends celebrating in ice shanty “neighborhoods.”

Don’t Miss:

The Sturgeon Spearing Festival in February.
Local fish fries in Oshkosh or Fond du Lac.
Exploring the ice roads maintained by locals—it’s like a mini highway system.

Fort Peck Lake, Montana

Montana’s Fort Peck Lake is a remote, rugged destination where solitude meets serious fishing. Stretching over 130 miles, it’s one of the largest man-made lakes in the country—and when it freezes, the adventure begins.

Walleye, northern pike, and lake trout are the main catches here, but the experience itself is what lures anglers back. You might not see another soul for hours, except for the occasional bald eagle overhead or the echo of cracking ice in the distance.

Tips for Your Trip:

Be self-sufficient—this is wilderness ice fishing.
Check ice conditions carefully; the vast lake freezes unevenly.
Pack for cold nights—temperatures can dip below zero.

Sebago Lake, Maine

On the East Coast, Sebago Lake near Portland, Maine, is the go-to for serious ice anglers chasing trophy togue (lake trout) and salmon. This deep, crystal-clear lake is beautiful year-round, but its winter scene is something special—snow-dusted pines, frozen coves, and friendly locals ready to swap fish tales.

The Sebago Lake Ice Fishing Derby each February draws anglers from across New England, with big prizes and even bigger catches. It’s family-friendly, too, with plenty of community events around the frozen fun.

Don’t Miss:

Early ice near Jordan Bay for salmon.
The annual derby weekend festivities.
A hearty seafood chowder at one of the lakeside pubs after fishing.

Lake Champlain, Vermont & New York

Lake Champlain sits on the border of Vermont and New York and offers some of the most diverse ice fishing in the Northeast. Pike, perch, crappie, and trout are plentiful, and the scenery—snow-covered mountains and historic shoreline towns—adds a postcard-perfect backdrop.

The northern bays, like Missisquoi Bay and Carry Bay, tend to freeze first, providing reliable ice earlier in the season. Plus, Champlain’s proximity to towns like Burlington means you can enjoy great food and cozy lodging between outings.

Tips for Anglers:

Try tip-ups for northern pike in shallow bays.
For perch, small jigs tipped with maggots work wonders.
Stay flexible—the lake’s vastness means conditions vary by region.

Lake Erie, Ohio

When it freezes solid (which doesn’t happen every winter), Lake Erie becomes one of the best ice fishing destinations in the country. The western basin near Port Clinton and Put-in-Bay is especially popular, known for its massive walleye population.

Local guides are essential here, as ice conditions can change quickly. On a good day, though, you can haul in limits of perch and walleye that rival anywhere in North America.

Don’t Miss:

Chartering with a local outfitter for safety and insider knowledge.
The annual Ice Fishing Tournament near Port Clinton.
Watching the sun set over the frozen lake—it’s surreal.

Mille Lacs Lake, Minnesota

Yes, Minnesota makes this list twice—and deservedly so. Mille Lacs Lake is a legendary ice fishing hub, less remote than Lake of the Woods but every bit as rewarding. With more than 130,000 acres of ice, you’ll find plenty of space to drill your hole and settle in.

Walleye, perch, and tullibee are the main targets, but the real appeal is the atmosphere: long lines of fish houses, glowing at night like tiny villages, and locals chatting between shanties.

Tips for First-Timers:

Rent a heated fish house through a resort to make things easy.
Try night fishing for walleye—it’s a local favorite.
Sample a Minnesota hot dish afterward—it’s the perfect warm-up meal.

Glacial Lakes, South Dakota

If you want to escape the crowds and still find world-class action, South Dakota’s Glacial Lakes region is the insider’s pick. Centered around towns like Webster and Waubay, the area offers dozens of small lakes loaded with walleye, perch, and bluegill.

Locals are friendly, and the ice season often stretches from December well into March. You can hop from lake to lake depending on the bite, with minimal traffic and pristine scenery all around.

Don’t Miss:

Bitter Lake for jumbo perch.
Waubay Lake for trophy walleye.
Local cafes serving classic Midwest comfort food between outings.

Bonus Pick: Big Bear Lake, California

Think California doesn’t do ice fishing? Think again. Big Bear Lake in Southern California’s San Bernardino Mountains sometimes freezes enough for a short ice fishing window. It’s not as consistent as northern lakes, but when conditions allow, it’s a novelty worth trying.

Rainbow trout and bluegill are the main catches, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks make it feel like you’re worlds away from L.A. Just make sure to check local ice conditions carefully—safety first!

Staying Safe on the Ice

Before you pack your gear, a quick note about safety—it’s essential. Ice thickness can vary, and conditions change fast, especially near inlets or moving water. Always check local reports, bring a spud bar to test the ice, and wear a floatation jacket if possible.

Basic Ice Safety Guide:

4 inches of clear ice: safe for walking.
5–7 inches: snowmobiles and ATVs.
8–12 inches: small vehicles.
12+ inches: larger trucks or groups.

Never take chances. A great fishing day isn’t worth a risky shortcut.

A Winter Tradition Worth the Chill

Ice fishing is more than just dropping a line through frozen water—it’s a winter ritual filled with laughter, patience, and connection to nature. Each of these destinations offers its own charm, from the vast wilderness of Montana to the community spirit of Wisconsin’s frozen festivals.

So, maybe this is the winter to give it a try. Bundle up, find a friendly guide, and experience the quiet magic of a frozen lake under a pale blue sky. Who knows—you might just get hooked.