Ice Fishing Equipment Starter List

A day on the hard water can be a huge success if you have the right ice fishing equipment. Don’t be caught on the middle of the lake without the essentials. Double check the list below and maximize your success on the ice. Ice fishing equipment can vary depending on what you are fishing for, but there is always the core essentials. Print this page off and use it as a guide for packing. Good luck out there!

The Essentials

Ice Fishing Rods with 4 to 8 pound test ice line

Bait (what are you fishing for – do you need minnows, smelts, etc.)

Something to sit on

Tip-ups and Leaders

Big bait for tip-ups

Tackle

Ice Auger

Bucket

Pliers (needle nose are best)

Mouth spreader (incase you get a trophy pike)

Fishing License

Drinking water

Snacks

Communication device

Matches/lighter

Extra change of clothes (in the event you get wet)

Filleting knife

The “Nice to Have’s”

Ice fishing shelter

Heater (propane)

Flasher depth finder

A compass

Ice Scoop

Hand warmers

Sled to drag your equipment over the ice with

Sunglasses (polarized)

Two-way radio’s

Ice fishing bobbers

Ice pick

Hatchet

Ice cleats

Flashlight

Lantern

Camera for the trophy fish you will catch

This is a good starter list, add what you think you need to it, and good luck out there!

Make sure you check out our ice fishing clothing tips and dress smart for your day on hard water.