Ice fishing is a favorite winter pastime due to the quiet serenity and added challenge compared to warm-weather fishing. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or a vereran, one of the biggest questions is how to find the best places for ice fishing. To help you find your new favorite spot, below are our five recommended places for ice fishing and camping.
1. DAR State Forest, Massachusetts
Why We Love It:
- Two lakes for ice fishing
- Set amidst rolling wooded landscape
- 50 campsites available
In 1929, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) donated 1,020 acres to the state to establish DAR State Forest. This large forested area features two bodies of water called the Highland Lakes. These damned lakes are about a quarter mile away from each other on the western branch of the Mill River.
The lower lake is 88 acres with a moderately developed shoreline and a rubble bottom. The upper lake is 53 acres with an undeveloped shoreline and a similarly rocky bottom. The lower lake is known for its large-mouth bass and yellow perch, while the upper lake is popular for its trout and small bass populations. Either lake makes for great ice fishing, but the lower pond is generally considered the better spot among ice fishing enthusiasts. A group site is available for rent, as well as 50 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring.
State Fishing License Information
2. Trinidad Lake State Park, Colorado
Why We Love It:
- A large lake featuring a wide variety of fish
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Plenty of camping sites
Located in the picturesque mountains of southern Colorado, Trinidad Lake State Park boasts an 800-acre lake with a diversity of fish that is a fisherman’s dream: rainbow and brown trout, small and largemouth bass, walleye, saugeye, channel catfish, black crappie, yellow perch, wiper and bluegill. Besides being beloved for its wide range of fish species, the lake is also known for being a fruitful fishing spot year-round, including in winter when the lake is covered in ice. Ice fisherman will likely see plenty of wildlife while waiting for a bite on the line. Trinidad Lake State Park is filled with elk, deer, turkey and coyote. Staying overnight is almost guaranteed too; the park has two campgrounds with 73 sites for trailers or tents.
State Fishing License Information
3. Canoe Creek State Park, Pennsylvania
Why We Love It:
- 8 Modern Cabins
- Stocked trout lake
- Lots of access points
For a truly memorable ice fishing experience, plan a trip to Pennsylvania. One of the favorite places to ice fish in is at the Canoe Creek Lake located within Canoe Creek State Park. This park is about 90 miles west of Pittsburgh. The lake is considered an exceptional fishing spot for rainbow trout with stocking typically taking place in December. The park offers 8 modern cabins to stay in on your ice fishing adventure. Alternatively, you can take advantage of one of the many public access points.
State Fishing License Information
4. McIntosh Woods State Park, Iowa
Why We Love It:
- A wide variety of fish in the lake
- A great spot for other winter activities
- Plenty of camping sites, including yurts
McIntosh Woods State Park is a nature refuge nestled along the northwestern banks of Clear Lake, Iowa’s second largest natural lake. This 60-acre park is a favorite spot among anglers attempting to reel in the large variety of fish in Clear Lake’s waters – everything from crappies and bluegills to northerns and bass. The lake is fished year-round, including ice fishing during the winter months. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are other popular activities at the park when the temperature drops. The park has two shelter areas for rent, 50 campsites, and two yurts.
5. Winchester Lake State Park, Idaho
Why We Love It:
- Large lake stocked with three types of fish
- Beautiful setting at the foot of the mountains
- Heated yurts available
Nestled in a forested landscape at the foot of the Craig Mountains, Winchester Lake State Park encompasses a 103-acre lake that is rich in nutrients to support robust populations of fish. Anglers drop their lines for bullhead and smallmouth bass, but the most popular catch at Winchester Lake is rainbow trout, which are stocked annually by the state’s Fish and Game department. Ice fishing draws people to the park during the winter months, as does cross-country skiing and ice skating. Modern campsites are available, as well as yurts that are heated in winter.
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.