Vermont Ice Fishing
VT Winter Fishing On Frozen Ponds & Lakes
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
- ALL DAY REFRESHMENT: Thanks to the double-wall insulation, the Stanley Iceflow Flip Straw Water Jug keeps drinks cold for up to 14 hours and iced up to 2.5 days while keeping the exterior sweat-free.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Unlike normal bottles, this is manufactured using 18/8 stainless steel, meaning it can take a beating. Everything is made with BPA-free material so your drink stays safe to consume.
- EASY CARRY HANDLE: The stainless steel jug features a built-in flip straw for clean, fresh sipping and a handle for carrying around your work commute. 25% of our lid’s material is made from recycled fish net to keep our planet healthy.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Cleaning your bottle couldn't be easier: just pop it into the dishwasher. Unlike other water bottles that retain smells and tastes, the high-quality stainless steel in ours keeps your water bottle odor-free after every clean.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: ‘BUILT FOR LIFE'. Since 1913 we've promised to provide rugged, capable gear for food and drink, built to last a lifetime. It's a promise we still keep. Stanley products purchased from Stanley Resellers come with a lifetime warranty.
- 26 Permanent Tungsten Carbide Studs for Max Durability
- Patent Pending Dual Elasticity
- Minimally exposed Studs for Transitional Traction
- Max Elasticity in the Upper for Easy On/Off
- Reduced Elasticity in Sole for Max Abrasion Resistance
- POLARIZED SUNGLASSES FOR MEN AND Women- HD Polarized Technology Lens can Effectively Reduce Reflection and Eliminate Glare from the Road, and Scaly Light on the Glass Surface, Improve Contrast and Visual Clarity, Allow for True Perception of Colors, Improve Visual Comfort and Effectively Reduce Eye Strain. Suitable for all Outdoor Activities, Driving, Fishing or any Water Sports to Wear
- 100% UV PROTECTION POLARIZED LENSES - UV400 Protective Lenses can Block 100% of UVA and UVB Rays. UV400 Sunglasses are Necessary to Protect your eyes from Long-term UV Damage and Keep your Eyes Healthy During Leisure Activities.Our Sunglasses are Available in a Variety of Lens Colours, Such as Black Blue Green Orange Lenses
- HIGH STABILITY FRAMES - The Frame is Made From Lightweight Yet Strong Special Material Construction, Which Is Lighter, more Flexible, And more Durable than Ordinary Frames, And can Reduce the Pressure on Your Nose and Effectively Prevent Damage To Eyes and Face Due to Frame Fracture and Friction During Sports
- CLASSIC TRENDY DESIGN - These Polarized Sunglasses are Designed with Classic Retro Styling Elements and are the more Fashionable Glasses. DEMIKOS Sunglasses are Suitable as Women's sunglasses and Men's sunglasses. Classic Polarized Sunglasses are the Perfect Companion for Driving, Sports, Festivals, Biking, Skiing and Hiking-a must for Men and Women
- COMPLETE CUSTOMER SERVICE - All DEMIKOS Customers Enjoy Complete Customer Service for our Polarized Sunglasses. The Integrity of Every Box and the Quality Of the Lenses are Double Checked By Third-party Companies. And that goes with a Support! If You have any Question,You can Contact us
- 【Multiple Wearing Methods】Can be worn as opened or closed balaclavas, face masks, neck gaiters, scarfs, bandanas, helmet liners, headbands and even wristbands
- 【Multifunctional】Sun UV protection, summer cooling, windbreak, dust proof and sand control, sweat absorption and quick drying, wrinkle free and machine washable
- 【Very Practical】 Suitable for multiple activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, football, fishing, motorcycling, running, climbing, hiking, tactical training and other outdoor activities
- 【Unique Design】 Designed in a minimalist unisex aesthetic which is suitable for men/women and even children. More colors available
- 【Ultimate Service】 If you have any questions regarding our products, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will definitely provide you with a satisfactory response
- Fast Drying Boot Dryer and Deodorizer: Quickly dry your footwear in just 80 minutes, significantly faster than other boot dryers. Ideal for work boots and sneakers with its advanced heat blower technology
- Heat Blower Technology: Our heavy-duty shoe dryer features a hybrid forced air system, ensuring your footwear dries safely while eliminating moisture and odors
- Multifunctional Use: This versatile dryer is ideal for boots, gloves, helmets, and more. Extendable tubes make it a great travel companion, easily fitting in your luggage
- Premium Features: Includes a built-in heat switch, 180-minute auto timer, and sloped base with drip trays. Keep your space less messy with our thoughtful design
- Versatile Attachments: Customize your drying experience with adjustable attachments for shoes, helmets, and gloves. Ideal for athletes, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Designed with a new model upgraded bit and more blades on the shaft, this planting auger for drills ensures heightened efficiency in gardens.
- SIZE: Measuring 2"(D) x 14.5"(L), this auger drill bit is equipped with a 3/8 inch non-slip drive, making it an ideal tool for digging holes in your yard.
- EASY TO USE: Compatible with any 3/8" chucked drill. We recommend using an 18V or higher drill. Keep the auger clean from soil and debris when not in use.
- WIDE APPLICATION: Our garden auger is the best choice for enhancing efficiency when planting bulbs, potted plants, vegetables, flowers, bare-root trees, and shrubs. It's also suitable for tilling soil or planter boxes, mixing seed, soil, fertilizer, paint, or batches of mortar mix for hardscapes. The auger drill bit can effortlessly dig post holes, and it's even handy for anchoring your beach umbrella in the sand during vacations. It will be an invaluable helper for you.
- BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: We offer a 2-year warranty service. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
- MADE IN THE USA - Nylon core covered in thick soft rubber; Strong and flexible
- FITS STANDARD SIZE BARS - Mounts to handlebars and tubular bars or railings 5/8” to 1” in diameter
- MAXIMIZE SPACE - Offset holder allows for use of more cargo rack space
- GRIPS YOUR GEAR - Rubber spurs cushion and grip your item securely
- SINGLE RACK - Holder carries one gun, bow, fishing rod or shovel on ATVs, bikes, and tree stands; NOT recommended for ice augers or crossbows
- Includes 2 Premium Auger Drill Bits (Drill Not Included): Enjoy the convenience of two easy-to-use auger bits in this fantastic K-Brands value pack Simply attach the auger to any standard 3/8” hex bit drill and you’re ready to dig effortlessly Experience the joy of planting with ease
- Your Essential Yard Work Tool: This versatile spiral drill bit is perfect for planting bulbs and bedding plants but it doesn’t stop there Effortlessly create holes for fenceposts, ground lights, outdoor torches, and umbrellas—all with this one indispensable tool
- Cut Your Work Time in Half: Say goodbye to sore hands and blisters! Our auger drill bit significantly reduces the time needed to plant flowerbeds or install fences, allowing you to dig as many holes as you need in a fraction of the time it would take by hand
- Ditch Your Shovel for Good: Our high-quality, heavy-duty steel auger drill bits are designed to do the hard work for you At 16 inches long, they handle loose soil, hard ground, sand, clay, and even ice with ease allowing you to enjoy your gardening tasks without the strain
- Our Promise to You: We are dedicated to your satisfaction! You’re backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee—if you don’t absolutely love this product, we’ll refund every penny. Plus, our friendly customer support team is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns until you are completely satisfied
- The planting auger for drill designed with new model upgraded bit and more spirals on the solid shaft, ensures digging holes 10 times working efficiency, extremely increase your planting efficiency and you have more time enjoy the planting season.
- Planting auger for drill made of heavy duty steel with black paint coated for long service time. Extended length 16.5inch will make you stand up digging holes for planting instead bending over, really necessary tool in your planting season. Heavy duty solid shaft will work on any kinds of soils.
- Auger bits size is 1.6nch diameter by 16.5inch length, suitable for planting all kinds of bulbs and flowers of different sizes. 16.5inch length will also prevent you from back strain, don’t need to bend over so much to dig holes like the traditional way using a shovel.
- The pointed triangle bit of the auger drill bit has a small hole on it for easily hanging storage when not in use. Fit any 3/8” hex drive drill, please using drill with adjustable drill chuck to fit any sizes augers, you will never worry about if the auger fit your drill any more. 18V or larger cordless drill recommended.
- Package include 1.6x16.5inch solid shaft intensive blades auger drill bit and 2 mini garden tools(help you transplant seedlings and drill potted plant hole.) Great gift ideas for anyone who loves doing garden work, will help them planting potted plants, vegetables, flowers, bulbs, soils, paint and so on. Also can bring earth drill on vacation to drill a hole in sand to anchor your beach umbrella and outdoor tents.
- Effortless Bit Access: Keep SIX 1/4” bits securely at your drill's side for quick, on-the-job swaps.
- Precision Mounting: Designed to effortlessly attach to your drill's factory location for a seamless fit.
- Built Tough, Made in the USA: Crafted from non-marring, flexible, and impact-rated TPU for durability and proudly made in the USA
- Snug Bit Security: Experience peace of mind as your bits snap securely into place and stay there during intense drilling tasks.
- DeWalt-Specific Compatibility: Ideal bit holder for DeWalt impact drivers, hammers, and cordless drills.
- Organize Like a Pro: A must-have for construction pros, DIYers, and homeowners – perfect for organizing bits for any task, from yard work to machine repair.
- End the Chaos: Say goodbye to scattered bits and welcome streamlined organization to your workshop with BT//FX!
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
- DVD Not Rated. Has special features.
- Color 160 minutes. All New digital transfer.
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
Fitness and Sports Products On Sale Now
Join Amazon Prime - Watch Thousands of Movies & TV Shows Anytime - Start Free Trial Now
Free World Mall
Country Weddings | Vermont Products | New England
