Haven't tried ice fishing yet? Here's what you're missing

If you haven't tried ice fishing, you're missing out on a fun, inexpensive winter activity that's a great way to catch lots of tasty fish. Prime ice conditions for fishing varies by region depending on climate, elevation, and other factors, but typically late December through mid February are good times. 

Three to four inches of solid ice is the minimum to support a person, and thicker ice is needed for groups. Here's more information about ice fishing safety. Conditions can also change quickly, so use good judgment before heading out on the ice, and remember you’re responsible for your own safety.

Idaho has ice fishing in nearly every part of the state 

No matter where you live, an ice fishing destination is probably within a couple hour’s drive and likely no more than three hours. If you don’t live near one, make it a weekend trip and stay at a motel, or if you have an RV, check if there’s a place to stay (preferably with electric hookups to run a heater). Think of it as a mini vacation and a fun winter getaway.

Here are some reasons why you should try ice fishing:

It's a good way to get outside during winter

Ice fishing is not just another fishing trip—it’s a whole different fishing experience. You can make it as simple or as technical as you want. To start, drop a baited hook through the ice and wait. It's really that simple. But as you progress, you can add multiple rods (up to 5 per person), various baits and tackle, electronics, and maybe a sled, snowmobile, or ATV to get all your gear out to prime fishing spots. 

It’s not as cold as it might seem 

There’s no getting around it: You’re standing on a sheet of ice. But think of it as the opposite of the old cliche “but it’s a dry heat.” 

On a calm, sunny day, it can be amazingly comfortable on the ice, even when the thermometer is reading single digits. Part of that is the radiant heat from the sun, and the other part is dressing in layers so you can add and subtract clothing and adapt to temperature changes throughout the day. 

It’s surprisingly beginner-friendly

Ice fishing may seem specialized, and part of it is because it’s the only type of fishing that requires an ice auger. But aside from that, nearly any fishing gear will work. 

If you decide to buy your gear, an ice fishing rod/reel combo is inexpensive, and honestly, a lot of fun to fish with because even a modest-sized fish feels big. Check out Fish and Game's ice fishing page for more information about ice fishing basics, where to ice fish, and important safety information.

Fishing can be fast, furious, and fun

Like all fishing, there are no guarantees the fish will bite. But when they start biting, fishing can be fast-paced because you’re trying to hook and land fish and keep all your lines baited and in the water. Catch a few fish through the ice and you will quickly understand why people get hooked on ice fishing.

Ice fishing can be a combination of fishing and tailgating

Bring a camping stove or grill, some food, your favorite beverages, camp chairs, a heater, etc. The only challenge is getting all your gear out on the ice, but an inexpensive plastic toboggan can haul a surprising amount of cargo. If you have a snowmobile or ATV, there are trailers and sleds that are great for hauling more cargo. Adding food and drinks—especially warm meals and hot drinks—makes the outing more comfortable and enjoyable. 

There's plenty of room for everyone

There’s no shortage of space on a frozen lake, which is not always the case when you’re trying squeeze people into a boat, or even in shorelines with limited fishing space. The whole lake, reservoir, or pond is available and everyone has room to spread out. You can also try other spots by just walking across the ice. Kids love ice fishing because they can play and have fun on the ice if fishing is a little slow. 

The fish taste better

That may sound like an old wive’s tale or a boast by ice anglers, but there’s scientific evidence that backs it. The “muddy” taste you sometimes hear about from fish can be caused by blue green algae, which can proliferate during warmer months. Blue green algae is gone, or greatly diminished, in cold and frigid water, so it no longer affects the fish's taste.

Ice fishing is traditionally about catching fish for eating, so indulge, but stay within the bag limits, which you can find in the fishing rules booklet.