Fishing on Ice

No matter the season, we love seeing people out on our lakes. Yes, even in winter*.

Why do people come back to the Eagle River area year in and year out to fish in the winter? Some say the fish taste better. Others want the thrill of the catch. Many are looking for a quiet respite to think about life. Our take? We’re pretty sure it’s the time spent with family and friends out on the ice that brings people back.

When you go ice fishing on the World’s Largest Chain of 28 Lakes, you can be sure that there’s plenty of room for you and your crew to find your spot. Lakes off the chain are always available to ice fish on too.

The Report

With most reports across Eagle River area lakes showing pretty consistent ice thickness of 12 to 14 inches in late January, you can bet there’s good fishing to be had. Walleye are biting along weed edges and transition breaks in the 10- to 14-foot range with medium shiners or sucker minnows on tip-ups. Northern pike fishing is still producing at the 10-foot depth range and perch are hungry in 15- to 20-feet water for patient anglers.

For current ice fishing conditions, head over to the fishing report, which is updated weekly.

Whether you’ve been ice fishing our lakes for decades or have never even seen a tip-up (or know what a tip-up is!), the Eagle River area is the place to continue or start this frosty tradition.

Need a Line?

We can hook you up. Whether you’re new to the area or it’s an annual tradition, we have the fishing guide for you. Local guides know how to pair the type of fish you’re looking to catch and the lakes you’ll find them on. And the best part? They’ll often help you out onto the lake with some of the best gear around – from digital trackers to warm pop-ups.

Depending on the fish you’re going after, you’ll have to drop your line in deep or shallow water, or fish earlier or later in the day. During mid-day, the deepest water in the lake is where you’ll find most fish. However, walleye fishers will have the best chance for a catch in the evenings with sucker minnows or golden shiners under tip-ups. Northern action also has been great this year using large shiners or pike suckers during the afternoon. Panfish can be difficult to get to at the start and end of ice fishing season due to access in areas they’re typically found, such as deep water for crappies.

No matter what fish you’re angling for, it’ll take a bit of patience and an extra layer or two to stay warm. The insider tips that our local guides provide often extend beyond fishing. They also know some of the best places to warm up in town.

Eat. Drink. Relax.

Now that you’ve weathered the elements and caught some photo-worthy fish, you’ll need to head inside to warm up. Whether you’re looking to stay overnight, or grab a bite to eat, we know just the spot.

From private cabins to luxury lake homes, we’ve got comfort covered. Direct access to the lakes keeps things convenient for you and your group to get back out there the next day. If you aren’t already full of fish, you can refuel with delicious food and drink at various restaurants—including sports bars, wine bars, cafés and more. Of course, everything is served with a heavy dose of Northwoods hospitality.

Bundle Up for Ice Fishing

Ice is on the lakes. The fish are hungry. All we need is you. From guides to help you land that big catch to the cozy places to warm up afterwards, we have you covered like the snow on the ground in February. It shouldn’t be too difficult to bait your friends and family to head over to Eagle River this winter! Memories on the ice are waiting to be made.

*Make sure ice depth is appropriate to walk on