The Best Spots for Fishing Success This Winter
Top 10 Ice Fishing Lakes in Minnesota
It’s game on for ice fishing enthusiasts when winter arrives in Minnesota. Anglers flock to the frozen lakes, ready to tackle the elements and chase after their next big catch. Our list of Top 10 Minnesota Ice Fishing Lakes offers thrilling opportunities for ice anglers seeking trophy walleye, jumbo perch, crappies, lake trout and other species. Here are the top hardwater lakes that promise action and fishing success this winter!
1. Lake of the Woods
Located in the far northern part of the state, Lake of the Woods is one of the state’s premier ice fishing destinations. Its 70,000 acres is home to a wide variety of fish, including walleye, northern pike, and perch. The lake’s vastness, with its numerous fishing spots and varying depths, can be daunting for ice anglers who are not seasoned veterans. Knowledgeable guides, such as Jeff and Lyle from Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota, provide invaluable expertise and insight, helping to pinpoint the lake’s best fishing areas based on current conditions and seasonal patterns. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of landing a trophy fish or simply looking to enjoy a day on the ice with friends and family, Lake of the Woods offers an exhilarating winter fishing experience that caters to all skill levels.
2. Lake Winnibigoshish
Lake Winnibigoshish, commonly referred to as Lake Winnie, covers approximately 69,000 acres, and offers some of the best ice fishing in the Upper Midwest for jumbo perch. Walleye and northern pike fishing is also excellent. It’s also centrally located to many other top fishing lakes in Northern Minnesota. Equipped with the latest gear and technology, professional guides Jeff & Lyle of Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota ensure a comfortable and efficient fishing experience, enabling ice anglers to focus on the thrill of the catch. Additionally, with their emphasis on safety and expert instruction, hiring a guide service on Lake Winnie can result in a more productive and enjoyable ice fishing outing.
3. Upper Red Lake
Upper Red Lake is famous for its excellent crappie fishing during the winter months. This large, shallow lake offers a unique fishing experience, with many anglers flocking to its waters for the chance to catch both crappies and northern pike. Upper Red Lake is open to the public and does not have any special restrictions for non-natives; while Lower Red Lake is primarily managed by the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians and fishing there is generally restricted to tribal members. Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota will help ensure compliance with state and tribal laws, while helping you catch your limits of fish.
4. Mille Lacs Lake
Mille Lacs Lake is another top spot for ice fishing, particularly known for its trophy-sized walleye. The lake covers over 132,000 acres and offers a diverse fishing experience. Ice Anglers can also target northern pike, perch, and even the elusive muskie. Professional guides Jeff & Lyle of Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota can help you efficiently locate the best fishing spots and refine your fishing techniques, ensuring a producive ice fishing trip on Lake Mille Lacs.
5. Leech Lake
Leech Lake is one of Minnesota’s largest lakes and a hotspot for ice fishing. With its expansive waters and numerous bays, it provides ample opportunities to catch walleye, perch, and crappie. The lake’s variety of underwater structures makes it an exciting place to explore, and Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota can help you focus on having a successful day rather than worrying about navigation and safety.
The Best Lesser Known Ice Fishing Lakes in Minnesota
(our picks!)
6. Big Sandy Lake
Ice fishing on Big Sandy Lake near McGregor, MN, draws ice anglers eager to catch its plentiful walleye, northern pike, and crappies. This 2,500-acre lake becomes a vibrant hub of winter activity as ice houses emerge and fishermen pursue their next big catch. Whether you’re an experienced pro or a first-time angler, let Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota show you an unforgettable ice fishing adventure on Big Sandy Lake.
7. Pokegama Lake
Ice fishing on Pokegama Lake (pronounced po-keg’-a-ma) draws anglers eager to catch walleye, northern pike, and crappie. Spanning about 1,400 acres near Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the lake’s diverse underwater structure creates prime fishing habitat. Hiring local guides like Jeff & Lyle of Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota can boost your success by revealing the hottest spots and techniques. With the thrill of fishing and the stunning winter landscape, ice fishing on Pokegama Lake promises an action-packed day on the ice.
8. Wabana Lake
Sharing this hidden gem of ice fishing will likely get this writer in trouble with the locals. Located just northeast of Grand Rapids, MN, Wabana Lake’s low fishing pressure makes it an ideal spot for those seeking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful yet productive day on the ice. Spanning approximately 1,500 acres, the lake features varied underwater structures that provide excellent habitats for walleye, northern pike, crappies, and bluegill, significantly enhancing the chances of a successful outing. This is one of those lakes where hiring a local guide, like Jeff and Lyle from Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota, can yield major benefits. Ice fishing on Wabana Lake is a must-try for anyone eager to uncover one of Minnesota’s best-kept secrets.
9. Bowstring Lake
Spanning approximately 3,500 acres and located approximately 20 miles northwest of Grand Rapids , Bowstring Lake has an abundant fish population of walleye, northern pike, crappie, and perch, making it an excellent destination for ice fishing. Compared to the bigger, more popular lakes, Bowstring Lake offers lower fishing pressure, and anglers enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience on the ice, away from crowded fishing spots. For those unfamiliar with the area, hiring a local fishing guide can be beneficial. Guides provide valuable insights into the best fishing spots, current conditions, and effective techniques, ensuring a productive day on the ice. Stuated within the Chippewa National Forest, Bowstring Lake offers beautiful winter scenery and plentiful fishing opportunities for ice anglers of all skill levels.
10. Sand Lake
Located just northwest of Bowstring Lake, Sand Lake consistently delivers ice fishing success year after year. This 1,000-acre lake features clear waters, varied underwater structures, and abundant populations of walleye, northern pike, crappie, and bluegill. Ice anglers frequently target both Bowstring and Sand Lake during the same fishing trip, allowing them to switch between lakes if one is underperforming. This flexibility enhances their chances of landing a great catch and makes for a more rewarding winter fishing experience.
For the best ice fishing success this year, consider hiring Jeff or Lyle of Guided Ice Fishing Minnesota. With their extensive local knowledge and expertise, they can help you navigate the waters of lakes like Sand and Bowstring, ensuring you find the best fishing spots. Their experience in ice fishing techniques and understanding of fish behavior increases your chances of a successful outing. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, Jeff and Lyle provide valuable insights and a supportive environment, making your ice fishing adventure both enjoyable and productive. Lock in your ice fishing trip today, call: 218-259-7140 (Lyle) or 218-259-8893 (Jeff)
Minnesota Fishing Licenses
A current Minnesota Fishing License can be obtained one of three ways:
Online by visiting the MN DNR Website;
by calling 1-888-MNLICEN(665-4236),
or you may purchase one at an area bait shop or convenience store.
The rate for a one day resident license is $12.00 or $14.00 for a one day non-resident license.
Minnesota Fishing Regulations
Click image to view and download current fishing regulations
