Vermont Ice Fishing
VT Winter Fishing On Frozen Ponds & Lakes
Vermont offers some great lakes for beginners and casual ice-fishing enthusiasts who want easy access to both the lake and other activities and attractions. Vermont also has some incredible lakes for serious, experienced anglers who are willing to snowmobile for miles in order to find the best spot. You may also want to consider the type of fish you want to catch. Salmon, northern pike, brook trout, and lake trout (also called togue) are all plentiful if you know where to look. Ask us about VT Ice Fishing or share your Vermont fish tales. To feature your business, contact us.
Vermont Ice Fishing
When late fall clamps an icy lid over Vermont lakes and waterways, some anglers put their fishing gear away for the winter. However, an increasing number of Vermont outdoor enthusiasts are leaving the comforts of home and poking holes through the ice. Some anglers claim that fishing strikes come faster in the wintertime.
The same fish that are sought in the summertime do, of course, lurk beneath the ice during the winter (though not all fish bite then), and the eating is every bit as good (some say better). Tackle, ice augers, clothing, and ice-fishing shanties have reached sophisticated proportions in dealing with the only known enemies of the wintertime Vermont angler: ice and cold.
Tip-ups are devices that signal when there is angling activity on your line. Designs vary, but the essential feature is a flag that “tips up” when a fish strikes. A tip-up consists of crossed bars approximately the size of a large tire wrench. One bar spans a fishing hole; the other bar—with a reel and small flag at opposite ends—dunks vertically into the water.
Equipment. From the buckets, sleds, shelters, heaters and other trappings strewn around ice anglers on a frozen Vermont lake, it is clear that equipment plays an important role in ice fishing. But it’s not the amount of equipment nor its complexity and cost that make for an effective ice-fishing outfit. More important is how the equipment fits the fishing style of the angler using it. Veteran ice anglers understand that, and no two of them are ever equipped exactly alike.
The only equipment about which anglers totally agree is clothing and boots, and anyone out on the ice in the wrong attire pays dearly in discomfort. The single most important item in an ice fishing wardrobe is footwear. Poorly shod feet pressed onto the ice will soon chill. Insulated rubber boots, or boots with separate, thick felt liners, are the best insurance against cold feet. Boots should fit loose enough to accommodate extra socks and to allow maximum blood circulation.
Good headgear is particularly important when ice fishing. Up to 80 percent of the heat lost on a cold day leaves the body from the head and neck. A wool cap or parka hood can provide comfort when you feel a chill, and if you’re on the verge of breaking into a sweat, you can cool off merely by exposing your head.
Gloves are also needed, although the importance placed on them varies among anglers. Some wear light gloves inside mittens and do all but the most delicate knot tying and hook baiting with the gloves on. Others wear bulky, loose-fitting mittens and put them aside to do most tasks. Some anglers use gloves only when lugging gear long distances, keeping their hands stuffed deep inside warm pockets the rest of the time. If you need gloves on the ice, take two pairs in case the first pair gets lost or wet.
Getting started in ice fishing is easy. You need only a couple of inexpensive, lightly-rigged jigging poles (2- to 4-pound test for panfish, 6- to 8-pound for walleye), a few jigs and lures, small bobbers, split-shot, live bait such as minnows or waxworms, a bucket to transport gear and to sit on, an ice auger, and ice-skimmer.
An ideal way for a novice to try his or her hand at this sport is to hook up with a resort that runs its own ice-fishing operation. They will have shanties located in productive spots and can give you the latest on what fish are biting, and which ice fishing tactics are working best.
If you want to go it alone, some basic tips will help. There are three Vermont ice-fishing seasons: first ice, mid-winter, and last ice. Many anglers believe first ice is the most productive, as fish are actively feeding, often still in shallow water. But first ice also can be dangerous. Never go out on any lake unless you’re sure the ice is safe.
In mid-winter, weeds along the shore die, and fish tend to move deeper. As light diminishes and temperatures plummet, feeding tends to slow. But if you can locate schools of crappies, perch or walleye in pockets of deep water, vigorous jigging and the right lures can bring success.
Last ice brings new weed growth along shorelines, as well as more warmth and light, so fish tend to move back toward shallower water. In all three seasons, it helps to know something about a lakes bottom structure. Sporting goods stores carry detailed maps of many lakes. If you know a lake from fishing it in warm weather, apply that knowledge to your winter fishing.
Is the Ice safe? Even though you may be eager to enjoy ice fishing, beware! Ice can be dangerous. Here are some hints on determining ice safety.
*Lakes rarely freeze uniformly. Early and late in the season, ice that’s safe in the morning may be dangerous by afternoon.
*Prolonged frigid weather makes for safe, thick ice. Use an auger to test ice. At least four inches of clear, blue ice is probably safe for lone anglers and small groups of people in most conditions.
*Single, unbroken pressure cracks in the ice are probably safe to cross, but stay away from areas where cracks meet or intersect.
*Be extra careful where water levels vary, as in rivers, streams, inlets, outlets, coves, eddies, and springs. Moving water erodes ice from beneath, as does wind pushing water under ice.
*Avoid areas with “stick-ups.” Protruding logs, brush, plants, and docks absorb heat from the sun, thereby weakening the surrounding ice.
What’s the Best Ice Fishing Line? 
Technological advancements have created many “perfect” ice lines. None, however, is perfect for everything. Superlines, those braided polyethylene wonders, are perfect for walleyes in deep water, but only in some situations (not at minus 30F). Superlines are also less than perfect for hard-fighting fish, because fishhooks tend to rip out.
Where to Ice Fish. Vermont offers a number of productive destinations for the ice angler. Try Great and Little Averill Ponds near Averill; Lake Bomoseen near Castleton; Caspian Lake near Greensboro; Chittenden Reservoir near Chittenden; Lake Dunmore, near Salisbury; Eden Lake, near Eden; Harriman Reservoir near Wilmington; Island Pond near Island Pond, Vermont; Maidstone Lake, near Maidstone; Lac Memphremagog, near Newport; Shadow Lake, near Glover; Waterbury Reservoir, near Waterbury; Lake Fairlee, near Fairlee; and my personal favorite, Green River Reservoir, near Centerville.
A winter ice-angling mainstay in Vermont traditionally has been perch. The trick in perch fishing is to find a “hot” hole. In any perch area, there are always certain spots that produce the best. I won’t spend much time at a hole unless bites are coming fast. Keep moving and drilling new holes until you hit a bonanza. I’m also partial to certain lures. For some reason, colors like green or red are tops in shallow water. Silver seems to be best in deep water. Persons planning to ice fish in Vermont should check the rules governing the specific waters he or she plans to visit. Those rules can be found at local bait and tackle shops.
Initially, perhaps, a novice may find ice fishing simply an intriguing pastime to occupy long winter days. But once a person has mastered the essential skills, which is not difficult to do, an angler will find it an excellent way to enhance the dinner table. It all adds up to an extended fishing season and gives another dimension to Vermont’s winter sports scene. For additional information about Vermont ice fishing write to Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife, 111 West Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452.
– Mary Syrett
Good Luck Fishing in Vermont!
Ice Fishing Equipment Sale
- The ORIGINAL Shoe Cleaning System: Pink Miracle Shoe Cleaner has been around since 1985, and the great formula is the number 1 choice for sneakers and shoes. Whether you are a sneaker head collector or simply want to clean your shoes to provide a professional new look.
- All in One Shoe Cleaner and Conditioner: A SAFE Concentrate containing saddle soap, gentle oils and conditioners. WORKS ON All WASHABLE (Meaning you can Wet the Fabric and lightly scrub) leathers, vinyl, nubuck, suede, canvas, cloth etc. Since its non-toxic there's endless uses and due to the fact it is a concentrate a little amount (size of a dime) goes a long way. Unsure of your fabric? Test in small area first - Or send us a Message : )
- JUST A FEW DROPS (Please Read Directions on Bottle): This is a shoe cleaner CONCENTRATE - A little goes a long way. Follow instructions on the bottle and keep shoes ( Nike, Jordans, Vans, etc.) bike, black, white, sandals, boots, espadrille, and fabrics looking new again. Kids enjoy seeing the results of once dirty shoes now brand new again! Pairs well with your favorite shoe spray!
- MADE IN THE USA: from New Quick Fit, the shoe cleaner comes with a FREE BRUSH. The Pink Miracle shoe cleaner is a great household cleaning solution and has been a secret weapon for home cleaning supplies, work offices, and athletes for years.
- SEE WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING: One Bottle Can Last Years! So, grab one for yourself and buy a few for your friends and family Now! Pink Miracle Shoe Cleaner ~ A Great Gift~
- ELEVATED COMFORT: Eliminates the discomfort of sleeping on rough or cold ground.ELEVATED COMFORT: Eliminates the discomfort of sleeping on rough or cold groundBUILT TO LAST: Strong cross-bar steel frameSUPPORTS: Up to 300 lb.MAX HEIGHT: 6 ft. 2 in.DIMENSIONS: 73 x 35 x 17 in.Portable: Folds to fit in most car trunksMilitary-style camping cot ; Extra wide design for more sleeping roomCan accommodate most people up to 6 feet 2 inches tall 1-year limited warranty
- BUILT TO LAST: Strong cross-bar steel frame
- SUPPORTS: Up to 300 lb.
- MAX HEIGHT: 6 ft. 2 in.
- DIMENSIONS: 73 x 35 x 17 in.
- Portable: Folds to fit in most car trunks
- 1-year limited warranty
- Xtreme Technology; Insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
- High capacity: Holds up to 84 cans
- Heavy-duty wheels: Effortless rolling over any terrain
- Have-a-seat lid: Closed lid supports up to 250 pounds
- Cup holders: Molded into the lid to keep drinks close and prevent spilling
- Telescoping handle: For easy pulling and compact storage
- SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: Cuisinart’s 5-1 griddler is a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle and half grill/half griddle
- EASY TO USE: The griddler plates (11-inch x 9-inch) are removable, reversible and are dishwasher safe nonstick cooking plates, the plates also act as a drain for the grease for cooking more healthy. The integrated drip tray collects grease and is easy to store
- ALSO INCLUDED: Red/green indicator lights for easy operation, dishwasher-safe scraping tool for easy clean up and an instruction manual with gourmet recipes for you to enjoy
- CUSTOM CONTROL: Sturdy panini-style handle with hinged floating cover adjusts to thickness of food, selector knob choose grill or griddle function and the adjustable temperature controls for grill or griddle
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: Refer to user manual for troubleshooting steps and questions surrounding warranty policies – this product is BPA free
- PERFECTLY PORTABLE CHANGING STATION - with Kopi Baby’s diaper changing pad, you can have a clean, waterproof and safe changing mat everywhere you go!
- CONVENIENT TO CARRY – Attach your changing table pad to strollers, bags, wrists or wherever you choose alike with its Velcro straps or buckle loop!
- SMART WIPES POCKET – Opened or folded, this baby changing station grants easy access to wipes with the smart wipes pocket! Simply place your favorite wipes or reusable pouch in the pocket, and you’ll never need to search for wipes again!
- SECURELY STORES ESSENTIALS – The outer pocket is perfect for mom’s and dad’s things, while the 2 inner mesh pockets conveniently store baby necessities. Plus, you can detach this extra storage space when you just need a simple changing pad!
- OUR PROMISE – Thanks to Kopi Baby’s travel changing pad, changing your baby’s diapers became a cleaner and easier, Protected by a 30-day guarantee, you’re sure to get the best portable diaper changing pad around!
- KILLS ROOTS IN SANITARY SEWERS: Roebic FRK-1LB Foaming Root Killer kills roots in sanitary sewers and is recommended for severe recurring root problems
- FOAMS ON CONTACT: Exclusive Roebic Root Killer formula, which does not contain copper, foams on contact with water to fill the entire pipeline with the root killing agent dichlobenil to inhibit new root growth
- SAFE FOR ALL PLUMBING: Foaming Root Killer is safe for all types of plumbing and will not harm surrounding trees
- EASY TO USE: The granular contrate has multiple application methods, including residential sewer lines, and between tree roots and sewer lines
- REAL RESULTS: Use Foaming Root Killer to maintain your system and help avoid the inconveniences that result from root clogs such as back-ups and surface break outs
- Replacement for models: GE XWF, GE WR17X30702, Maxblue MB-F48, AQUA CREST AQF-FF48, Filterlogic FL-RF48, Waterspecialist WS648A, CF9, GF-XWF, PF9. Note: XWF! This filter is replacement for XWF, not XWFE!
- This replacement for GE XWF water filter, despite its affordable price, offers the best - a mix of prior filtration performance and important certifications from the well-known regulatory body in the industry – NSF 42 and NSF 372 certificates. Thanks to the 100% Sri Lankan superior coconut shell carbon block, this replacement for GE XWF water filter is effective against various contaminants.
- Advance filtration process: Waterdrop replacement for GE refrigerator water filter effectively filters off contaminants from your water. These include heavy metals, chlorine, mercury, copper, cadmium, VOCs, chromium, THM, and other suspended particles tested by the third-party laboratory. While the impurities are reduced, every beneficial mineral in your water is kept, ensuring that your body functions properly.
- Perfect fit: You can now worry less about water leakages due to unfit or loose replacement refrigerator filters. This Waterdrop refrigerator filter replacement is made from an advanced industrial automation system and a precision measurement technology that ensures that you get the same fit as the original. Moreover, you need no tool to install this refrigerator water filter. Just follow the installation guidelines we have provided, and you will be done in minutes.
- Top-notch filter material: Here, you are getting a significant improvement to the less-efficient charcoal filter that relies on coal, wood, walnut shell, and apricot shell to filter water. The filter material in this filter is a 100% Sri Lankan selected coconut shell carbon block, with 2x larger surface area and more micropores.
- Complimentary month install stickers: You do not have to go the extra mile to monitor your refrigerator filter’s lifespan. This Waterdrop refrigerator filter is shipped with complimentary month install stickers that help track the service life at all times. Now you know when you have exhausted the 200 gallons or 6 months of pure water, depending on the water conditions.
- BPA-free and food-grade materials: At Waterdrop, we prioritize your safety. This is why we have used only safe materials in this refrigerator filter, as verified by the NSF 372 certification for lead-free materials.
- Purified with love: We believe everyone has the right to drink pure water wherever they are. We are not only about business; we hope to use our technology to benefit more people. A portion of every purchase you make is donated to provide children in water-scarce regions in Africa with clean, pure water.
- Compatible with: GBE21, GDE21, GDE25, GFE24, GFE26, GNE21, GNE25, GNE27, GYE18, QNE27, GSE25, GSS23, GSS25, GZS22, PSE25, CZS22, GNE27JSMSS, GNE27JMMES, GNE27ESMSS, GNE27JGMBB, GNE27JGMWW, GSE23, GSE23G, GSE26, CFE26, XFE26, CWE19.
- GE is a registered trademark of General Electric Company. GE is used for reference purposes only.
- KILLS ROOTS IN SEWER AND SEPTIC PIPES: Roebic K-77 Root Killer clears existing roots and stops new growth fast from sewer and septic pipes, keeping lines free from clogging tree and shrub roots
- PREVENTS RE-GROWTH: The K-77 copper formula chemically kills roots at the point of entry into pipes to prevent re-growth, improving drainage and flow
- SAFE FOR ALL PLUMBING: Root Killer is non-corrosive and safe for all types of plumbing and will not harm surrounding trees, ground cover, or the natural bacteria content in septic tanks and cesspools
- EASY TO USE: Use every 6 to 12 months
- REAL RESULTS: Use K-77 Root Killer to maintain your system and help avoid the inconveniences that result from root clogs such as back-ups and surface break outs
- Destroys clogging roots fast
- Safe for all plumbing. Will not harm septic tanks
- Saves costly digging and rooter service
- Not for sale in Connecticut, Massachusetts, the Bay counties of California
- Banned for use in Septic Systems in Florida
- EASY TO USE KNIFE SHARPENER: This is the perfect knife sharpener for chef’s knives, paring knives, serrated knives, filet knives, cleavers – you name it. If you own a knife, you need this sharpener.
- GET A SHARP EDGE IN 10 SECONDS: A sharp blade makes it easier to get work done quickly and safely. The innovative AccuSharp Knife Sharpener lets you sharpen most blades in around ten seconds.
- DIAMOND-HONED TUNGSTEN CARBIDE SHARPENER: AccuSharp sharpening blades are crafted from diamond-honed tungsten carbide, one of the hardest known materials. With it's unique design, the sharpening blades can be reversed doubling its life span.
- DEPENDABLE & LONG-LASTING CONSTRUCTION: Most users report an average of five to 10 years between blade replacements. AccuSharp Knife Sharpenersare double-beveled and can be cleaned easily with soap and water or in your dishwasher.
- SAFE, UNIQUE, ERGONOMIC HANDLE: Featuring a unique, ergonomic handle, the AccuSharp fits neatly in either hand to accommodate both right-handed and left-handed users. Includes a full-length guard that protects your fingers throughout the sharpening process.
- Connect to any household KitchenAid Stand Mixer* power hub and use the power of the motor to run the metal food grinder attachment. *sold separately.
- The possibilities for creating fresh, inventive foods are endless with the included fine, medium and coarse grinding plates and two sausage stuffer tubes.
- The larger food tray* allows you to process more ingredients in one batch, cutting down on food prep time. *Compared to model FGA.
- Pre-chill the grinder in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain a cold grinding temperature for a neat and clean grind every time.
- The KitchenAid Metal Food Grinder is packed and organized inside its own storage case, designed for easy storage and quick access.
- EASY-TO-USE: Splash Kids fishing reel and rod combo is perfect for young anglers featuring a 29-inch fishing pole that floats! This combo features a patented no-tangle design, simple push-button mechanics, and an oversized handle knob making it not only easy to use, but also fun and safe for your kids
- FIT-TO-FISH: Lightweight and easy-to-use, these combos are made for beginner anglers. The Splash Kids combo is simple, stylish, and size-appropriate for adventurers aged 3-5. From the bright colors to the durable fiberglass rod with a tangle-free tip. It even floats if your little angler accidentally drops it off the dock. Get into gear with a spincast reel and fishing rod that fits your age, size and style
- FUN & PRACTICE: Includes a casting plug for ultimate fun on or off the water. Cast in the backyard or on the shore to sharpen up those casting skills, or head straight to the water for more advanced practice. Its moderate action and light power is ideal for targeting everything from panfish to trout and is designed to hold a 4-8-pound line weight and 1/16-1/4 oz lure weights
- SMOOTH PERFORMANCE: This size 20 spincast reel is constructed with all-metal gears and a 2.6:1 gear ratio for a silky-smooth retrieve. Featuring a QuickSet anti-reverse to stop your handle from moving backward and create a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your catch. The right-hand retrieve is pre-spooled with 6-pound Cajun fishing line so you can start your fishing adventure sooner
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- EASY-TO-USE: Zebco Slingshot spincast reel and fishing rod combo features a 5-foot 6-inch 2-piece durable fiberglass rod and size 30 fishing reel. The rod comes in a fun blue color! The reel features a patented no-tangle design and simple push-button mechanics for ease of use making this reel great for both beginners and experienced anglers
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: This hard-working fishing rod and reel combo comes with a durable EVA handle to provide anglers with hours of comfort. Its moderate-fast action and medium-light power is ideal for catching medium species such as panfish, trout, walleye or bass and is designed to hold a 6-10 pound line weight and 1/16-3/4 oz lure weights
- SMOOTH PERFORMANCE: This size 30 spincast reel is constructed with all-metal gears and a 2.8:1 gear ratio for a silky-smooth retrieve. Featuring a dial-adjustable drag and QuickSet anti-reverse to stop your handle from moving backward and create a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prize catch. The right-hand reel is pre-spooled with 10-pound Zebco fishing line so you can start your fishing adventure sooner
- EXPERTLY DESIGNED: dependable and designed to last, the Slingshot spincast combo was expertly designed. A great all-purpose fishing set-up, the easy-casting spincast reel is custom-matched to a durable 2-piece Z-Glass rod to help you to reel in the big ones all day long
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- EASY-TO-USE: The Zebco 404 spincast reel and rod combo has been a mainstay with anglers for years. The combo features a 5-foot 6-inch 2-piece fishing pole, size 40 reel and a 28-piece tackle kit. You will be ready to hit the water with the patented no-tangle design and simple push-button mechanics for ease of use making this reel great for both beginners and experienced anglers
- 28-PIECE TACKLE KIT: The tackle kit comes as a complete set ensuring you are ready to go catch your prize fish right away and includes 6 fishing hooks, 3 split-shot sinkers, 4 swivels, 2 swimbaits, 6 curly-tail grubs, 5 jig heads, 2 bobbers
- BUILT-IN BITE ALERT: You will be amazed by the built-in bite alert designed to alert anglers of activity below the water. Bite alert is a mechanical system that disengages the anti-reverse of the reel and engages a clicker to create a sound when line is being taken out so you will not be mistaken when your next trophy is on the line
- TOUGH YET SLEEK: Utilize the convenient dial-adjustable drag and the QuickSet anti-reverse features to stop your handle from moving backward and create a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prize catch. Featuring a tough-yet-sleek design, the 404 spincast reel will look and perform great
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- MODERATE ACTION: 30-inch 1-piece fishing rod combo provides medium power and moderate action making it easier to catch light and medium species including panfish, trout, walleye, and bass
- EXPERTLY CRAFTED MATERIALS: Durable fiberglass rod blank construction and ultra-tough dial-adjustable drag provide smooth cast and retrieves while cushioned EVA handle reduces discomfort and ensures a sure-grip
- EFFORTLESS FISHING: Zebco's QuickSet anti-reverse reel stops your handle from moving backward and creates a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prized catch. It features a powerful right-hand retrieve, patented no-tangle design, and comes pre-spooled with 6-pound Zebco Cajun line
- SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION: Premium all-metal gears, a 2.6:1 gear ratio, and dual-ceramic pick-up pins ensure a buttery-smooth retrieve, extended life, and ultra-high abrasion resistance to make every fishing experience a memorable one
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- 16oz Pint Glass with New Titleist Golf Ball Embedded.
- High quality, heavy glass holds a true 16oz pour (minus a few drops because of the golf ball). 100% safe to use to drink. Freezer safe.
- 100% Made in the USA - Each pint glass is hand-sculpted in our glass workshop in Wisconsin to create a unique drinking masterpiece.
- Genuine product designed and handmade by BenShot in Appleton, WI. Our design is registered with the patent and trademark office.
- Tee up your favorite beverage with this one-of-a-kind beer glass from the father and son team at BenShot. We're a family run team of artisan glassmakers based in Wisconsin. Search Google for "BenShot Reviews" to see our reviews and learn more about how we give back to our community.
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department publishes an informative Guide to Vermont Fishing that includes a map of Vermont and suggested lakes and streams, as well as designated charts of species found in each body of water. This guide is free and may be obtained wherever Vermont fishing licenses are sold, or by writing to:
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671-0501
Phone: 802-241-3700
Vermont Products | Visit VT Towns | FWM 24/7 Shopping
Country Weddings | New England Recipes
VT Inns | Red Sox Gifts | Travel Destinations
New England Living
Free World Mall
Country Weddings | New England Recipes
VT Inns | Red Sox Gifts | Travel Destinations
