When the lakes freeze over, ice fishing becomes one of the most rewarding ways to chase perch, walleye, bluegill, trout, and pike in the heart of winter. But getting started can feel overwhelming if you’ve never fished through the ice before. Online guides often give surface-level advice, and product pages rarely explain what gear you actually need — or which brands work best in real conditions.
This guide fixes that.
These are the 10 essential pieces of ice fishing gear that my friends and I actually use on the ice here in the Midwest. Whether you’re a beginner or upgrading your setup, this list will help you stay warm, stay safe, and catch more fish.
A good ice rod should be short, sensitive, and strong enough to handle cold-water fish without snapping. We recommend the Shimano Sienna Ice Combo — it’s affordable, reliable, and has the sensitivity needed for light-biting bluegill and perch.
Why it’s essential:
- Detects subtle winter bites
- Easy to handle in tight shelters
- Perfect for jigging
What we use it for: Perch, bluegill, trout, and smaller walleye.
Cold temperatures make cheap line brittle. The best options for ice fishing are fluorocarbon ($14.95) or ice braid ($16.95) designed for freezing temperatures.
What I recommend:
- Softer, low-memory mono if you want stretch for beginners
Why it matters:
Frozen line causes tangles, snapped fish, and wasted time.
- Lures & Baits
Ice fishing is all about presentation. Live bait works well, but artificial lures are deadly when used right.
Our essentials include:
- Spoons for bigger fish
- Waxworms, spikes, and small minnows (pick up at your local baitshop)
Why it’s essential:
Winter fish are sluggish — scent and flash make a difference. I recommend using live bait if you want more action.
- Auger
You can’t ice fish without drilling a hole. For beginners and anglers without a power drill setup, the StrikeMaster Mora 8″ Hand Auger ($77.19 – $99.99 ) is a trustworthy choice.
Why I like it:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Cuts clean holes in typical Michigan ice
If you have a cordless drill, pair it with a K-Drill attachment (15.99-20.99) for faster hole-hopping.
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Fishing in the open air is fine… until the wind hits. A shelter keeps you warm, blocks the wind, and helps you stay out longer.
Recommended shelter:
Eskimo QuickFish 2 Pop-Up Shelter (319.95-359.99)Why it matters:
- Warmth = longer fishing sessions
- Blocks wind for better jigging sensitivity
- Great for 1–2 anglers
- Durable and easy to set up
A good heater turns a freezing day into a comfortable one. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy (89.00) is the go-to for almost every ice angler.
Why it’s essential:
- Safe for enclosed shelters
- Runs on 1-lb propane tanks
- Keeps hands warm so you don’t miss bites
Being warm keeps you focused — and safer.
This is the biggest game-changer in ice fishing. Instead of blindly fishing, electronics show you the depth, bottom structure, and whether fish are under you.
Best beginner-friendly option:
Garmin STRIKER 4 Portable Fish Finder (179.99)
Why I recommend it:
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Shows fish, jig movement, and depth
- Works year-round (boat + ice)
Electronics easily double your catch rates.
You will always bring more gear than you planned. A sled makes transporting everything — auger, rods, shelter, heater, bucket, tackle — way easier.
What I use:
Shappell Jet Sled ($54.98 – $149.99)
Why it’s essential:
- Smooth on ice
- Perfect for long walks
- Durable and lightweight
Beginners underestimate this item until they try carrying a heater by hand…
- Ice Cleats & Safety Gear
Before catching fish, you have to stay upright and safe.
Must-have items:
- Ice cleats for traction
- Ice picks (wear around your neck)
- A spud bar to check ice thickness
- A rope for emergency pulls
Michigan-specific note:
Ice can vary dramatically — especially early and late season. Safety gear saves lives.
- Warm Clothing Layers (Boots, Bibs, Gloves)
If you’re cold, you won’t last long. Dress the right way and you can stay out all day.
Best picks:
- Striker Ice bibs/jacket (399.99-529.99)
- Merino wool base layers ($84.99-47.19)
- Waterproof gloves + hand warmers
Good clothing turns miserable days into legendary ones.
🎣 Find Your Perfect Ice Fishing Setup
Final Thoughts
Ice fishing is one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences — but only if you have the right ice fishing gear; these products are what we use on the ice, tested through Midwest winters and fishing trips. Whether you’re brand new or looking to upgrade your setup, this list gives you the tools to stay warm, stay safe, and catch more fish.
