Popular Ice Fishing Lakes In Vermont
Guide to favorite fish species at top ice fishing lakes in the state
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The best ice fishing lakes in VT include Lake Champlain, Lake Dunmore and Lake St Catherine. The most popular species through the ice, across the state, include bass, trout and perch. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about the best ice fishing lakes in the state, plus the species found in each lake. 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.
Vermont's winter season transforms its water bodies into a frozen wonderland, perfect for ice fishing. During this time, anglers can target a variety of fish species that thrive in the cold waters. Popular fish species to catch through the ice in Vermont include yellow perch, black crappie, bluegill, northern pike, and chain pickerel. These fish are known for their aggressive feeding behavior in colder temperatures, making them prime targets for ice anglers.
Ice Fishing Tips & Techniques Video
Ice fishing in Vermont involves drilling holes in the ice, typically with an auger, to access the water beneath. Once the hole is ready, anglers set up their fishing equipment and use specialized ice fishing gear, such as ice fishing rods, tip-ups, and jigs, to entice the fish to bite. Live bait, such as worms, minnows, or waxworms, is commonly used to attract fish to the fishing spot.
Safety
Safety is paramount when engaging in ice fishing. Ice thickness can vary, and it's crucial for anglers to check the ice conditions before venturing out. Ice should be at least four inches thick for foot traffic and at least six to eight inches thick for snowmobiles or ATVs. Wearing proper clothing, including insulated layers, waterproof boots, and warm gloves, is essential to stay comfortable and safe in the cold weather. It is also recommended to fish with a buddy and carry safety equipment like ice picks, a throwable flotation device, and a first aid kit.
Ice fishing in Vermont not only offers a unique angling experience but also provides an opportunity to enjoy the serene winter landscape and the camaraderie of fellow ice fishing enthusiasts. With proper preparation, equipment, and safety measures, ice fishing can be a rewarding and enjoyable winter activity in the Green Mountain State.
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.
Island Pond
Maidstone Lake
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 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 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.
Click here for a Vermont Fishing License.
Vermont Map
States with notable ice fishing
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