11 Best Ice Fishing Lakes In Minnesota

Minnesota’s lakes come alive in winter. Ice houses pop up like tiny towns, and the sound of augers fills the crisp air. Here, ice fishing isn’t just a hobby – it’s part of winter life, shared between parents and kids, friends and neighbors.

The fish beneath these frozen waters keep anglers coming back. For fishing beginners, walleyes, pike, and panfish swim under thick sheets of ice, waiting for the next bite. From remote northern lakes to spots right in the cities, each lake has its own story and secrets.

Minnesota ice anglers look out for each other. Bait shops share daily tips, and friendly faces are ready to help newcomers learn the ropes. This helpful spirit makes our winter fishing special.

Smart anglers always check the ice and bring safety gear. The DNR keeps everyone updated on ice conditions, helping folks stay safe while chasing their next big catch.lake winnibigoshish ice fishing

Ice Fishing at Lake of the Woods, MN

Lake of the Woods stands as Minnesota’s northern crown jewel, stretching along the Canadian border near Baudette. This massive lake draws river kayak enthusiasts and ice anglers from across the country to its frozen waters. Lake of the Woods,’s nickname “The Walleye Capital of the World” isn’t just talk – these waters deliver.

At Lake of the Woods, most winter action happens in the southern portion. Resorts maintain well-groomed ice roads, making it easy to reach your fishing spot. Local rental services offer everything from basic shelters to luxury sleeper houses, perfect for multi-day trips.

Walleyes and saugers school up in predictable winter locations in Lake of the Woods. The deep mud basin areas hold fish all season long, while the shallow reefs light up during morning and evening hours. Don’t be surprised if you hook into a trophy northern pike or jumbo perch while targeting walleyes at Lake of the Woods.

Ice Fishing at Mille Lacs Lake, MN

Mille Lacs sits just two hours north of the Twin Cities, making it a perfect weekend getaway for metro anglers in Minnesota. This round lake spans 132,000 acres, with every corner holding fish-catching potential during winter months.

Mille Lacs Lake, MN has shallow rock reefs and gravel areas attract walleyes all winter. Most locals focus on the mud flats in 20-30 feet of water, where schools of walleyes hunt for prey. Mille Lacs Lake’s perch fishing heats up in late winter, offering fast action on sunny afternoons.

Dozens of resorts ring Mille Lacs Lake, providing access points and local knowledge. Many maintain their own plowed roads and rent fish houses. First-timers should consider hiring a local guide – they know Mille Lacs Lake’s patterns and can jumpstart your success.

Ice Fishing at Upper Red Lake, MN

Upper Red Lake draws crowds for good reason – it’s one of Minnesota’s best walleye factories. This shallow basin north of Bemidji warms up quickly in spring, making it perfect for walleye spawning. Come winter, these fish stay active, giving anglers consistent action.

Upper Red Lake’s simple bowl shape makes it easier to find fish. Most action happens in 6-12 feet of water, where walleyes cruise the vast flats hunting for prey. Local resorts plow wide roads on the ice, creating easy access to the best fishing areas.

The west side hosts several full-service resorts offering heated rental houses and up-to-date fishing reports for Ice fishing at Upper Red Lake. Bait shops here provide the latest hot lures and local knowledge that can make or break your day on the ice.

Ice Fishing at Lake Minnetonka, MN

Lake Minnetonka brings big-lake fishing to the Twin Cities’ backyard. This sprawling lake system, perfect for sit on top kayaks, with its many bays and points, gives metro anglers plenty of options without the long drive up north.

Each bay seems to have its own personality. Walleyes hang around the deeper holes in Crystal Bay, while panfish fanatics hit Lafayette Bay’s weed edges. Many locals start their season chasing early-ice crappies in the channels, then switch to pursuing pike as winter progresses.

Lake Minnetonka’s developed shoreline means plenty of access points and amenities. Gas stations, restaurants, and bait shops sit minutes from popular fishing spots. Local fishing clubs often host events here, creating a strong community feel.

Ice Fishing at Lake Vermilion, MN

Vermilion’s rocky points and deep bays hold fish all winter long. For those using depth finders, this northern gem near Tower offers anglers a true northwoods experience, complete with pine-studded shores and eagle sightings.

Lake Vermilion’s west end draws walleye anglers to its deep structure, while the east end’s countless bays hold schools of jumbo perch and crappies. Smart anglers follow the transitions between shallow flats and deep water – these spots consistently produce fish throughout winter.

Local resorts maintain ice roads to popular fishing areas, though many anglers prefer exploring quiet bays by snowmobile. Lake Vermilion’s size means you can always find a peaceful spot to drill holes, even on busy weekends.

Ice Fishing at Lake Winnibigoshish, MN

Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing offers anglers an unparalleled winter experience on one of Minnesota’s premier frozen lakes. Known affectionately as ‘Winnie’ by locals, this 58,000-acre expanse is a haven for Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing enthusiasts seeking walleye and perch. The diverse underwater terrain of Lake Winnibigoshish provides ice anglers with a variety of fishing opportunities, from shallow bars to deep basins, making it an ideal destination for different ice fishing techniques.

During the winter months, Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing concentrates around the lake’s main bars and humps, where fish tend to gather. Popular starting points for Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing expeditions include Bena and Highbanks on the west side, where resorts maintain safe ice roads for easy access. The sugar bar and center bar areas are particularly productive spots for Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing, often yielding steady action once anglers find the right depth. For those targeting walleye, Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing is typically most rewarding during daybreak and dusk, while perch are more active during mid-day hours.

Given the vast size of the lake, Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing can be challenging for newcomers. It’s highly recommended that anglers bring a GPS and consult with local bait shops for the latest Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing reports and hot spot locations. To enhance the Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing experience, many resorts around the lake offer a range of services including plowed roads, rental fish houses, and expert guides. These amenities make it easier for both novice and experienced anglers to access prime Lake Winnibigoshish ice fishing areas and increase their chances of a successful outing on the frozen waters.

Ice Fishing at Lake Winnebago, MN

Lake Winnebago, while primarily associated with Wisconsin, shares its name with a smaller, lesser-known lake in Minnesota that offers excellent ice fishing opportunities. Lake Winnebago is located in the central part of the state and provides a more intimate ice fishing experience compared to its larger namesake. Lake Winnebago’s smaller size makes it easier to navigate and find productive fishing spots.

Ice fishers on Lake Winnebago, MN, can expect good catches of panfish, particularly crappies and bluegills. Lake Winnebago also supports a healthy population of northern pike, offering exciting opportunities for tip-up fishing. The western shore of the Lake Winnebago tends to be more productive, with several underwater structures that attract fish during the winter months.

Local ice fishers at Lake Winnebago recommend using small jigs tipped with waxworms or minnows for panfish, while larger minnows on tip-ups work well for pike. Lake Winnebago’s relatively shallow depth means that fish can be found at various levels throughout the water column, so experimenting with different depths is key to success. For those planning to do Ice fishing at Lake Winnebago, safety should be a top priority, and anglers should always check ice conditions before venturing out.

Ice Fishing at Gull Lake, MN

Gull Lake shines as the Brainerd area’s premier ice fishing destination. Its manageable size and excellent facilities make it perfect for family outings. Gull Lake offers enough variety to keep everyone interested, from kids catching sunfish to adults pursuing trophy walleyes.

Gull Lake holds walleyes and pike, while protected bays produce consistent panfish action. Grassy Point and Pine Beach areas offer easy access and parking. Local resorts rent houses by the day, making it simple to plan weekend trips.

Gull Lake area’s many restaurants and shops add comfort to your ice fishing adventure. Bait shops around Lake Winnebago provide recent fishing reports and friendly advice for visitors. Gull Lake is one of the best ice fishing location in Minnesota

Ice Fishing at Rainy Lake, MN

Minnesota shares Rainy Lake with Ontario, creating a unique border water experience. This massive lake near International Falls demands attention from serious ice anglers, especially those chasing trophy walleyes through the ice.

Deep rock reefs and underwater points hold fish all winter. The Minnesota side offers excellent access through several resorts, each maintaining their own ice roads. Many locals focus on the Brule Narrows area, where fish congregate near current areas.

Local guides know this lake’s secrets, making guided trips worth considering. They’ll put you on fish while teaching you to read Rainy’s complex structure. Most outfitters provide heated houses and top-notch electronics.

Ice Fishing at Lake Kabetogama, MN

Lake Kabetogama fishing offers anglers a unique and rewarding experience in the heart of Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park. This pristine lake, spanning approximately 25,000 acres, is renowned for its excellent walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass populations. Lake Kabetogama fishing enthusiasts can enjoy year-round opportunities, with ice fishing being particularly popular during the winter months.

During the winter, Lake Kabetogama fishing transforms into a thrilling ice fishing adventure. Anglers flock to the frozen surface to target walleye, perch, and northern pike through holes drilled in the thick ice. Lake Kabetogama’s diverse underwater structure, including rocky reefs and deep basins, provides ideal habitat for fish, making Lake Kabetogama fishing productive even in the coldest months

Lake Kabetogama fishing guides and local resorts offer valuable services to visitors, providing equipment rentals, ice houses, and up-to-date fishing reports. These resources can significantly enhance the Lake Kabetogama fishing experience, especially for those new to the area or ice fishing in general. Lake Kabetogama’s location within Voyageurs National Park also means that kayak anglers can enjoy stunning wilderness scenery while pursuing their catch

Ice Fishing at Leech Lake, MN

Leech Lake ranks among Minnesota’s most legendary fishing waters. This massive lake near Walker features everything from shallow bays to deep holes, giving winter anglers endless options.

Walker Bay draws crowds for its winter walleye action, while the main lake’s mud flats hold schools of perch and tullibees. Pine Point and Portage Bay offer protected fishing when winter winds howl across the main lake.

Minnesota natives know to check with local resorts about ice conditions – Leech’s size means ice forms at different rates across Leech Lake. Bait shops in Walker provide detailed fishing reports and maps marking productive areas.

Time to Do Some Ice Fishing In Minnesota

Winter fishing demands respect for the elements. Always pack a flotation suit or ice picks – they’re not just extra gear, they’re essential safety tools. For recreational kayakers venturing onto the ice, warm boots, hand warmers, and extra layers can make the difference between a great day and a miserable one.

Basic gear starts with an auger, ice scoop, depth finder, and rod-reel combos. Pack tip-ups for bonus action while you jig. A sled helps haul gear, and a good chair keeps you comfortable. Bring snacks and hot drinks – winter fishing burns more calories than you’d expect.

Check local bait shops before heading out – they know what’s biting and what isn’t. They’ll point you to the right spots and save you time drilling unproductive holes. Minnesota’s DNR website posts regular ice thickness reports – bookmark it and check it often.

Most importantly, never fish alone during early and late ice. Conditions can change fast, and having a partner adds safety and fun to your trip. If you’re new to ice fishing, many Minnesota resorts offer rental gear and guide services – a great way to learn the ropes.