Few things test an angler’s patience and skill quite like ice fishing for lake trout. When the lakes freeze and the air turns crisp, most folks pack their rods away for spring, but not us. The die-hard trout hunters know that under the ice, the real giants lurk.
If you have ever dreamed of pulling a thick-bodied, silver-blue laker through a frozen hole, this is your season. Grab a hot coffee, settle in, and learn how to find, tempt, and land one of the hardest-fighting fish in Canadian waters.
Why Lake Trout Are the Ultimate Winter Catch
Lake trout are the heavyweights of northern waters. They are smart, strong, and beautifully adapted to cold depths. In open water, they can dive to over 100 feet, chasing cisco and whitefish. Once the ice forms, their patterns change.
During the winter season, lake trout cruise closer to mid-depths where baitfish gather. That means you have a shot at trophy fish without needing a boat or downrigger. All you need is a good auger, solid ice fishing gear, and the right know-how.
They are also pure Canadian royalty. Whether you are fishing Lake Simcoe, Lake of the Woods, or the backcountry lakes of Northern Ontario, these trout are the holy grail of trout fishing in Canada.
Getting Started: Ice Fishing Prep 101
Ice fishing takes preparation for both safety and success. Before you even think about dropping a line, make sure you have covered the basics.
Check Ice Conditions
Never assume a lake is safe. You will want at least four inches of clear, solid ice before walking out, and more if you are hauling a sled or shelter. Early ice is usually best for fishing, but it is also the most dangerous. Always carry a spud bar, wear ice picks, and fish with a buddy.
Layer Up Right
Temperatures on the ice can plummet fast, and windchill will test your limits. A good ice fishing jacket, bibs, and waterproof boots are worth every penny. Brands like Simms and Striker Ice make insulated, breathable outerwear that keeps you dry without overheating.
Pro Tip: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and top it off with a windproof shell. You can shop Simms rain gear, waders, and cold-weather clothing right here at Angling Sports.
Set Up Your Ice Shelter
Even the toughest anglers appreciate a break from the wind. A pop-up ice shelter keeps you warm and focused, letting you fish longer and stay comfortable.
Look for models that:
- Set up quickly
- Offer thermal insulation
- Have enough space for you, your gear, and a buddy
Angling Sports carries everything from compact one-man setups to deluxe 4 person hubs.
Choosing the Right Ice Fishing Gear
Let’s talk tackle. Lake trout demand strong, sensitive gear that can handle deep water and powerful runs. Here is what you will need to stock up on before heading out.
Ice Fishing Rods
Lake trout are not perch. They hit hard and pull deep. You will want a medium-heavy to heavy-power rod between 36 and 42 inches. A longer rod gives you leverage when fighting fish below the hole.
Graphite rods offer great sensitivity, while fiberglass can take a beating. Pair your rod with a comfortable EVA handle and strong backbone for solid hooksets.
Top 3 Ice Fishing Rods for Lake Trout
When you are targeting big lake trout under the ice, you need gear that can take a beating and still deliver sensitivity. After testing the top models on Ontario lakes, here are our top 3 picks for power, feel, and value.
1. St. Croix Mojo Ice Rod
Why we love it: The Mojo Ice is built for serious anglers who chase trophy trout through deep holes. It has a responsive graphite blank for detecting subtle strikes and a strong backbone for powerful hooksets. The precision tapers make jigging spoons and tubes smooth and controlled.
Best for: Experienced anglers targeting large lake trout in deep or mid-depth structure.
2. Shimano Convergence Ice Rod
Why we love it: A balanced rod that delivers Shimano reliability without the premium price tag. The Convergence features durable construction with excellent sensitivity, making it perfect for jigging white tubes or spoons.
Best for: All-round lake trout setups where performance and affordability matter.
3. 13 Fishing Omen Black Ice Rod
Why we love it: Lightweight, strong, and incredibly sensitive. The Omen Black Ice gives you excellent control and feedback while still packing the strength to handle heavy lakers.
Best for: Anglers who want a premium feel with dependable power and fast action.
Pro Tip: Pair any of these rods with a smooth 2000-3000 size spinning reel, 10-20 lb braid, and a fluorocarbon leader to get the perfect balance of strength and sensitivity.
Ice Fishing Reels
A quality reel makes all the difference. Choose a spinning reel with smooth drag and cold-weather grease so it will not seize up in freezing temperatures. Models like the Shimano Sienna Ice Combo or 13 Fishing Black Betty Ice Reel offer reliability without breaking the bank.
If you are chasing giants in deep water, consider a baitcaster reel with a larger spool for quicker line pickup.
Line and Leader
Go with a 10–20 lb braided line for strength and sensitivity. Add a 6-foot fluorocarbon leader in the 10–15 lb range to stay invisible in clear winter water.
Avoid monofilament for deep jigging since it stretches too much and can cost you bites.
The Best Ice Fishing Lures for Lake Trout
Lake trout are aggressive predators. The right lure triggers both their curiosity and feeding instinct. Keep these proven performers in your tackle box.
1. Tube Jigs
A classic choice. White, silver, or glow tubes tipped with a piece of sucker meat are deadly on lakers. Fish them near the bottom and give them long, slow lifts.
2. Jigging Spoons
From the Swedish Pimple to VMC Tingler, spoons mimic fluttering baitfish and draw strikes from a distance. Metallic finishes like silver, gold, and nickel shine through clear ice.
3. Swimbaits
Soft plastics like the Keitech Fat Swing Impact or Z-Man DieZel MinnowZ on heavy jig heads tempt big trout.
4. Blade Baits
Perfect for aggressive fish. Drop them to the bottom, then lift with short, sharp snaps to create that irresistible vibration.
5. Dead Bait Rigs
When the bite slows, try setting a deadstick rod with a minnow or sucker on a treble hook just off bottom.
Locating Lake Trout Under the Ice
You cannot catch what you cannot find. Lake trout move constantly, chasing schools of baitfish. They are often suspended in the water column, so sonar or a flasher is your best friend.
Use a Fish Finder
Modern electronics like Garmin Panoptix or Humminbird Helix Ice show you fish activity and your lure in real time. Drop your transducer down the hole and watch how trout respond to your jigging.
Key Structure
- Points and drop-offs: trout cruise along depth transitions
- Humps and shoals: they ambush bait near structure
- Bait clouds: find the food and you will find the fish
Drill a series of holes from shallow to deep, and keep moving until you mark fish. Early ice often means shallower spots, while mid-winter pushes trout deeper.
The Technique: How to Catch a Lake Trout
When you have found your depth, drop your lure to just above the bottom. Then lift your rod in long, smooth motions, two to three feet at a time, and let the lure flutter back down.
Watch your line closely. Most strikes happen on the drop. If the line stops or jumps, set the hook with authority.
Lake trout have firm mouths, so you need a solid hookset and steady pressure. Do not horse them. Let them run. When that silver flash finally appears under the ice hole, it is a rush like no other.
Bring a sturdy landing tool such as jaw spreaders and pliers for safe releases.
Staying Warm, Safe, and Comfortable
Ice fishing is not only about catching fish. It is about staying out there long enough to do so. Here is how to make your time on the ice enjoyable.
Clothing
Start with insulated, waterproof outerwear. Simms G3 Waders and Simms Wading Boots are top choices for comfort and warmth. Add fingerless gloves for dexterity and a balaclava or neck gaiter to block the wind.
Shelter and Seating
A thermal ice hut, foldable chair, and propane heater turn a cold outing into a comfortable one.
Lighting and Power
For early mornings or night fishing, portable LED lights or lithium battery kits are worth carrying.
Snacks and Safety Gear
Keep hydrated, pack warm drinks, and bring a small first aid kit, ice cleats, and rope in case of emergency.
Final Thoughts from the Experts
There is something humbling about staring down a hole in the ice, knowing that somewhere below swims a fish older than your truck. Ice fishing for lake trout is not easy. It is cold, slow, and sometimes the fish just will not cooperate.
But when your rod bends, drag screams, and a massive trout surges below your boots, that is a memory that will keep you smiling until the thaw.
Ready to Gear Up?
Whether you are planning your first ice fishing trip or upgrading your setup for serious lakers, Angling Sports has everything you need to make this winter a success.
From ice shelters and cold-weather clothing to rods, reels, and lures, our staff are anglers first and gearheads second. We know what works when the mercury drops.
Shop essential ice fishing clothing and accessories from beginner to pro anglers at Angling Sports.
