Ice fishing is a beloved winter tradition for anglers who don’t let freezing temperatures keep them away from a great catch. Across North America, countless lakes and rivers transform into icy playgrounds, offering incredible fishing experiences. Whether you’re looking for trophy-sized fish, scenic frozen landscapes, or a thrilling ice fishing adventure, these destinations stand out as the best places to drop a line through the ice.
1. Lake of the Woods, Minnesota/Ontario
Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, Lake of the Woods is often called the “Walleye Capital of the World,” and for good reason. This massive lake offers some of the best ice fishing in North America, attracting thousands of anglers every winter.
Why It’s Great:
- Excellent populations of walleye, sauger, northern pike, and perch
- Heated ice shacks and sleeper fish houses available for rent
- A long ice fishing season, lasting from December through March
The town of Baudette, Minnesota, is a prime hub for anglers, with resorts and guides offering everything needed for a successful trip.
2. Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba
For those chasing monster walleye, Lake Winnipeg is a must-visit destination. This massive body of water produces some of the biggest greenback walleye in North America, making it a bucket-list spot for serious anglers.
Why It’s Great:
- Famous for trophy-sized walleye (many over 10 pounds!)
- Vast ice fishing areas with plenty of opportunities
- A well-established network of guides and outfitters
Prime fishing spots are near Balsam Bay and Hecla Island, where walleye are known to be aggressive in cold waters.
3. Devils Lake, North Dakota
North Dakota’s largest natural lake, Devils Lake, is an ice fishing paradise, offering some of the most consistent action for perch and walleye.
Why It’s Great:
- Jumbo perch, walleye, and northern pike are plentiful
- Easy access to guided trips and heated ice houses
- An extended ice fishing season from early December to March
Anglers flock to Devils Lake because it provides nonstop action, and it’s one of the few places where perch grow to trophy sizes.
4. Lake Simcoe, Ontario
Located just an hour from Toronto, Lake Simcoe is known as the “Ice Fishing Capital of Canada.” It’s one of the most accessible and popular ice fishing destinations in North America.
Why It’s Great:
- Abundant lake trout, perch, whitefish, and northern pike
- One of the most well-organized ice fishing spots with thousands of anglers every winter
- Excellent rental options for huts, gear, and guides
The lake freezes early and offers solid ice conditions, making it a great destination for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
5. Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York
Lake Champlain, which stretches between Vermont and New York, is an underrated but incredible ice fishing location. With over 120 miles of fishable ice, it offers a diverse selection of fish species.
Why It’s Great:
- Target species include lake trout, northern pike, perch, and walleye
- Beautiful scenic backdrops of the Adirondack Mountains
- Multiple access points with local outfitters providing huts and rentals
The cold climate of New England ensures a long ice fishing season, making Lake Champlain a top winter fishing destination.
6. Mille Lacs Lake, Minnesota
Another Minnesota hotspot, Mille Lacs Lake is a massive fishery known for its high catch rates and consistent walleye action.
Why It’s Great:
- One of the best walleye and jumbo perch fisheries in the Midwest
- Numerous resorts offering ice house rentals and guided trips
- Regularly stocked fish population, ensuring great year-round fishing
If you’re looking for a top-tier ice fishing experience with plenty of amenities and accessibility, Mille Lacs Lake is hard to beat.
7. Fort Peck Reservoir, Montana
For anglers seeking untouched ice fishing experiences, Fort Peck Reservoir in Montana is a remote but rewarding destination.
Why It’s Great:
- Home to some of the largest walleye, pike, and lake trout in North America
- Less crowded compared to other major ice fishing lakes
- Stunning wilderness views and abundant wildlife
Because of its vast size and unpredictable ice conditions, Fort Peck is best suited for experienced ice anglers who enjoy an adventure.
8. Lake Erie, Ohio/Pennsylvania/New York
Lake Erie is world-famous for walleye fishing, and the winter months provide some of the best opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish through the ice.
Why It’s Great:
- Incredible walleye fishing, especially near Ohio’s western basin
- Large populations of perch and steelhead
- Ice fishing charters available for those unfamiliar with the lake
With its sheer size, Lake Erie can be unpredictable in winter, so checking ice conditions regularly is essential before heading out.
North America is home to some of the best ice fishing destinations, each offering unique experiences for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re after trophy walleye in Lake Winnipeg, nonstop action in Devils Lake, or stunning views at Fort Peck, there’s an ice fishing spot for everyone.
Before heading out, always check ice conditions, local regulations, and fishing reports to ensure a safe and successful trip. Happy fishing!
