Winter camping and ice fishing are probably one of the most popular combinations when it comes to winter holidays.
Despite the often low temperatures and sometimes extreme conditions, winter camping is widespread among experienced hikers, fishermen, and beginners who are just discovering this lifestyle.
Today, camping and sporting goods stores make it easy to find all the gear you need, 4-person all-weather tents, warm clothes, and plenty of useful supplies to make your camping trip comfortable and safe in all types of weather.
That’s why when winter comes, you shouldn’t lock yourself up at home and wait for spring, because this time of year is ideal for a variety of activities that will make your life brighter and richer, as well as give unforgettable impressions and new experiences. After all, by going ice fishing, you can not only try your luck in catching big fish but also enjoy solitude with nature, test yourself, and learn something new!
Let’s take a look at some popular and exciting places where you can enjoy ice fishing and great snowy landscapes, as well as being away from the bustle of the city.
Moosehead Lake, ME
The first spot on our list that is perfect for ice fishing is Moosehead Lake. Located in Maine, Moosehead Lake is one of the most popular places for many fishermen.
This location is a great option for both winter and summer fishing, making Moosehead Lake a versatile destination.
As the largest lake in the state, Moosehead provides ample fishing opportunities. Plenty of fish lives here, among which trout, salmon, toge, and many others are often found!
In addition to fishing, the lake area is also great for camping and various winter activities. From snowshoeing and snowmobiling to hiking and rock climbing, so if you are looking for an interesting spot to fish and camp, then Moosehead Lake is perfect for you!
Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
The next beautiful location is Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. Among the main advantages of this place and the state as a whole, one can single out a truly picturesque and diverse landscape of nature, so you are guaranteed a pleasant visual experience. No wonder New Hampshire is often called “American Switzerland”.
Like Moosehead lake, Winnipesaukee is the largest in its state. Moreover, it is also one of the most popular fishing spots, especially among amateurs, so if you are a beginner, then Winnipesaukee is perfect for you.
The lake is home to many fish species such as white perch, lake trout, rainbow trout, etc.
The ice fishing season here starts in January and lasts until April, as the ice is quite hard and safe at this time.
Finally, the Great Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby is held on the lake every year in February, so you can challenge yourself and compete for prizes with other fishermen!
Henry’s Lake, ID
Lake Henry, located in Idaho, is well known to many fishermen because there are big fish and a lot of! Therefore, here even a beginner can get a noticeable catch.
Among the most common fish here are cutthroats and brook trout. The lake is also recommended by the Idaho Fish and Game organization, which already says that this place is an excellent option for ice fishing.
Another advantage of this place is the opportunity to enjoy winter sports such as ice skating, skiing, hiking, and more! So gather your friends, grab your gear and ice fishing tent for camping, and have fun in nature while enjoying all the benefits of Lake Henry in Idaho!
Bonaparte Lake, WA
Another beautiful spot for ice fishing is Lake Bonaparte in Washington. The place is surrounded by wonderful forests made up of evergreen trees, which provide a pleasant visual experience, especially in winter when the tops of the trees are covered with white snow.
Among the most common fish here are trout (various species), perch, and kokanee. In addition, a record for catching tiger trout was set on Lake Bonaparte.
The location is far from the cities, so here you will find peace and enjoy the magnificent natural landscapes and winter fishing to the fullest!
Lake of the Woods, MN
Lake of the Woods in Minnesota is a truly huge reservoir of over 300,000 acres.
This lake is located at the junction of Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota. With a diverse underwater world, large area, and camping opportunities, the Lake of the Woods is a popular destination for many fishermen during the winter season.
Here you may be lucky enough to catch pikeperch, northern pike, sauger, and many other fish species.
Not far from the lake, there is a resort where you can book a place if you want to enjoy nature with the basic amenities of civilization. However, you can also set up your camp in the “wild” nature and enjoy the special beauty of the winter landscapes and get that snowy feeling.
Boom Lake, WI
Boom Lake in Wisconsin is another great winter fishing spot. Among the main advantages of this place is the diversity of the underwater world, as well as a convenient location.
It is easily accessible by car (about 10 minutes away from the center of Rhinelander), so the lake is perfect for camping and fishing with the family, because “civilization” is literally next to you, so you can always charge your gadgets, eat delicious food or go shopping in between fishing.
Lake Boom abounds with fish, you can also catch perch, pike, zander, and many other species of fish here.
So if you’re going ice fishing with your family, Boom Lake in Wisconsin is a good choice for you!