Winter in Minnesota can mean many things: blizzards, snowman building, puffy coats and woolen underwear. To many people all around the state, it also means fishing -- ice fishing, to be exact.
The act of ice fishing is simple -- drill a hole in the ice, stick your hook and bobber through, and wait for the fish to come biting-- but the art of it is an entirely different story that requires some patience, supplies, and good luck.
Ice fishing, along with many other winter activities involving ice, is encouraged only during safe conditions. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ice must be at least 4 inches before any activity may take place on it. This specification has so far caused a bit of a rough go for some fisherman this season. Many lakes, such as Leech Lake in Cass County, have broken their surfaces under the weight of heavy vehicles.
Other lakes, such as Hanson Lake in Becker County and Blacksmith, Blue, Crappie and Newman lakes in Hubbard County, are lakes formed by pits that used to be used in mining. Since sinking, they have become filled with water, becoming new habitats for fish. Annually, they are stocked with trout, making them popular for anglers looking to snag a few fresh fish. However, fisherman are encouraged to use caution when using them. “[These lakes] are much deeper and take longer to cool down in the fall than natural lakes,” says Al Stevens, fisheries program consultant with the DNR. “As a result, the ice is usually thinner than on other lakes.”
However, most of the other 10,000+ lakes have safe enough conditions to fish. Hidden Valley Pond in Cottage Grove, MN, recently held a first-time fisher’s outing. The event was attended by Jim Levitt, a fisheries specialist with the DNR, who noted that ice fishing was “a great opportunity to really get that true Minnesota experience.” Many towns situated on lakes or deep ponds are introducing the idea of ice fishing to their residents, hoping to teach the proper safety precautions while also establishing a fun activity for families.
Fish Tales, a Minnesota Fishing Report published by Outdoors Weekly, notes that depending on the area fishermen are interested in, good catches are abound. Walleyes and panfish, such as bluegills and crappies, are the most popular species to catch during a Minnesota winter. In other areas, sauger, perch, pike, crappie, and trout are all available.
When trying to catch the perfect fish, the depth of the water you are fishing in is important, says the DNR. Bluegills and northerns prefer shallow water; walleyes often stay in deeper water. The time of day also plays a factor: bluegills and sunfish gather in schools and can be caught during the daytime, while crappies and walleyes bite best just before sundown. If you aren’t picky, northerns and trout are hungry throughout the day, just like muskies and bass.
The best place to go for all of your ice fishing needs is the Minnesota DNR’s website, which contains fishing reports, specifications, and regulations for all those interested. The ice fishing season will conclude in March/April, but fishing goes year round, as ice melts and lakes open up to warmer weather. For a closer look at the seasons, check this list.
