Popular Ice Fishing Lakes In New Jersey

Guide to favorite fish species at top ice fishing lakes in the state

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Last updated on February 21, 2026.

The best ice fishing lakes in NJ include Swartswood Lake, Lake Hopatcong and Lake Wawayanda. The most popular species are yellow perch, chain pickerel and crappie. See a list of lakes and species below.

Ice fishing is about as basic as angling gets, yet modern innovations have made it more comfortable and efficient than ever. During winter, it remains a popular pursuit in the state, drawing anglers onto frozen lakes and ponds in search of panfish, perch, pickerel, trout, and more. While cutting a hole still requires an auger, now commonly a lightweight lithium-ion powered model. Today’s gear options also include specialized short ice rods, inline reels designed to reduce line twist, high-visibility braided line, and sensitive spring bobbers to detect subtle bites. Many anglers also use sonar-based flashers or compact forward-facing ice transducers to locate fish beneath the ice in real time.

Beyond the basics of rod, reel, line, and hook or lure, anglers frequently rely on tip-ups rigged with baited lines to cover multiple holes (when legal), as well as small tungsten jigs, soft-plastic micro baits, and glow-in-the-dark spoons for deeper water. Live bait such remains effective, while prepared dough baits are popular for stocked trout. Comfort and safety gear have also advanced significantly, with insulated flip-over shelters, portable hub-style ice tents, heated seat buckets, spud bars for checking ice thickness, ice cleats for traction, and float-assist ice suits adding both warmth and security. Though the fundamentals remain simple, today’s ice fishing experience blends tradition with practical, high-tech improvements.

Ice fishing is a popular winter activity in New Jersey, offering anglers the chance to target various fish species while enjoying the frozen lakes and reservoirs.

Ice Fishing Tips & Techniques Video

Several fish species can be targeted during ice fishing in New Jersey. Some popular species include yellow perch, crappie, pickerel, chain pickerel, walleye, and trout. These fish tend to be more active during the winter months and can be found in many of the state's lakes and reservoirs.

Safety

Safety is of utmost importance ice fishing. Anglers should always check the thickness and quality of the ice before venturing out. A minimum ice thickness of 4 inches is generally recommended for foot traffic, while a minimum of 6 to 8 inches is required for snowmobiles or ATVs. It's essential to wear appropriate clothing and gear to stay warm and dry, including insulated waterproof boots, thermal layers, and waterproof gloves. Ice fishing shelters or shanties provide protection from the elements and serve as a cozy base camp. It's also crucial to have ice picks or ice claws on hand to aid in self-rescue in case of an accidental ice break.

Additionally, it is advisable to fish with a buddy and inform someone about the intended fishing location and return time. Ice conditions can change rapidly, so it's essential to stay vigilant and aware of any signs of weakening ice or open water areas. Ice fishing in designated areas or popular fishing spots where others are present can provide an added level of safety.

Top Ice Fishing Lakes & Species

There are numerous places to go ice fishing in the state. Here are a list of some of the proven, best destinations.

Click the images for species details.

This is a great way to get the kids to go outdoors in winter, connect with nature and learn to fish. The first consideration when attempting to go ice fishing, is safety. Make sure the ice is safe, and that you are prepared should an accident occur. Dress to stay warm - it's better to remove extra jackets than be cold and miserable. Be aware that the ice can be slippery, and falls can be dangerous.

Click here for ice fishing basics, including details on finding the best place to fish, tips for cutting a hole, basic tackle, bait, lures, depths to fish, safety, shanty's, tents and huts.

Best ice fishing methods for crappie, bluegill, perch and sunfish

Horizontal jigs and spoon-type baits are the go-to baits for crappie, either tipped with a minnow, wax worm or prepared baits often triggers more bites. Jigs work better close to the bottom, spoons tend to work better higher in the water column. If options allow, 15 to 30 feet is the most common depth. Adjust as necessary. See additional info on ice fishing for crappie, perch and sunfish.

Best ice fishing methods for walleye

Four basic lures are all you need. Ice jigs are minnow shaped with a tail that causes them to fall in a circular patter. Drop them to the desired depth (often to the bottom), then lift the bait a few feet to let it fall on slack line. Spoons: Metal slabs in chrome or a wide array of colors are used to jig up-and-down mimicking a dying baitfish. Lipless crankbaits: Fish like a spoon. Jigs: Use slightly larger jigs than for crappie, preferably with a flashing blade attached. Tip with live bait and let it sit, up a ways from the bottom typically 1 to 3 feet. A general tip is to always keep your bait off the bottom, one to 5 feet is an ideal place to start. Additional information about ice fishing for walleye.

Best ice fishing methods for trout

Trout focus on small forage fish in winter, so baits that flash silver - jigs or spoons, do well in attracting trout. Dual rods, where legal, are very effective. One rod with a jig/live bait set up on a tip-up, the second with a spoon fished up and down pretty aggressively. See more detail about ice fishing for trout.

Best ice fishing methods for bass

Ice fishing for bass focuses on locating structure and triggering reaction strikes. Drill holes near submerged weed edges, rock piles, drop-offs, or timber where bass hold during winter. Use a medium-light to medium ice rod with 6–10 lb test line and work jigging spoons, lipless crankbaits, or small soft-plastic swimbaits tipped on jig heads. Fish slightly above the depth where bass are marked, using short, sharp lifts followed by controlled drops. Watch your line closely for subtle ticks, and vary cadence until fish respond. Additional information about ice fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Best ice fishing methods for catfish

Ice fishing for catfish requires a focus on scent, patience, and fishing near the bottom. Start by drilling holes over deeper basins, old creek channels, or near submerged structure where catfish winter. Use a medium ice rod or sturdy tip-up spooled with heavier line, since catfish can make strong runs even in cold water. Rig a slip sinker or jig to keep bait on the bottom, and use cut bait, shad, or nightcrawlers for maximum scent. Keep lines still, watch for subtle bites, and allow time for catfish to fully take the bait before setting the hook. See more information on ice fishing for catfish.

Best ice fishing methods for pike and musky

Live bait, shiners and sunfish, are a great way to attract these big fellahs, assuming local law allows their use. Heavier line, steel leaders, bigger hooks and stronger tip-ups are in order. See more information on ice fishing for pike and musky.

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New Jersey Map

States with notable ice fishing

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