Fishing
Ice fishing with a guide or outfitter
Ice fishing is one of the easiest ways to start fishing in winter, especially when someone else checks the ice, drills the holes and heats the shack. Here is what a guided ice fishing day looks like and how to pick an outfitter.
What a guided ice fishing day looks like
Many ice fishing outfitters set up a village of heated shacks on a lake or river. You arrive, the holes are already drilled, lines are rigged and a stove keeps the shack warm. Some outfits also offer portable tents for anglers who want to move around and look for fish.
Depending on the water, you may fish for walleye, perch, pike, brook trout, lake trout or smaller winter species. Guides know the depths and spots that produce, and they often use sonar or underwater cameras to find fish under the ice.
Ice safety comes first
Ice is never completely safe, and its strength depends on thickness, type, temperature, snow cover and current. Rivers, inlets, pressure ridges and areas near springs can be much weaker than the rest of the lake.
This is one of the best reasons to go with an outfitter: they monitor the ice throughout the season, mark safe routes and decide when access by foot, snowmobile or vehicle is allowed. Always follow their instructions and never wander off marked areas. If you go on your own, learn the official ice safety guidance for your province first.
What is usually included
Ice fishing packages are often designed for beginners and families, with most of the gear supplied. Typical items include:
- Heated shack, cabin or tent, often with a stove
- Holes drilled and kept open
- Ice fishing rods, tip-ups or lines already rigged
- Bait where allowed
- Transport to the shack by snowmobile or shuttle on some sites
- Overnight shacks with bunks at some outfitters
Choosing an ice fishing outfitter and what to ask
Ask what species are caught, how many people fit in a shack, whether gear and bait are included, how you get from the parking lot to the shack and what washroom facilities are available. For families, ask whether the outing suits young children.
Winter fishing seasons, licences, allowed gear and the number of lines per angler vary by province and water body, and some waters are closed in winter. Check the official regulations and confirm with the outfitter.
GuideHunter lets you filter the map by ice fishing to find outfitters near you, with what each package includes and the price from, when the guide lists it.
What to bring
Dress in layers even with a heated shack: insulated winter boots, warm socks, a toque, mitts plus a light pair of gloves for handling lines, and a windproof outer layer. Bring a thermos, snacks, sunglasses for the glare on snow, your fishing licence and a cooler or bag for the fish you keep.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my own gear for guided ice fishing?
Usually not. Most ice fishing outfitters supply shacks, drilled holes, rods or lines and often bait. Check the offer to see exactly what is included before you go.
How do I know if the ice is safe?
Ice strength depends on many factors and changes with weather and current, so there is no simple rule you can see from shore. Outfitters monitor their ice and mark safe routes, and you should always follow their instructions and the official ice safety guidance.
Do I need a fishing licence to ice fish?
In most cases, yes. A regular fishing licence is usually required, and winter rules on species, gear and number of lines vary by province and water. Check the official regulations or ask your outfitter.