Ice Fishing Gear & Accessories

Yes, ice fishing reels are designed specifically for cold weather and vertical presentations. They’re smaller, lighter, and built to perform smoothly in freezing conditions without icing up. Inline reels and micro spinning reels are the two most common styles; inline reels help reduce line twist for finesse presentations, while spinning reels handle heavier jigs and deeper water. Ice reels also have grease and bearings rated for sub-zero temperatures to prevent stiffness.

Ice fishing line is specially made to perform in freezing temperatures. It’s treated to resist water absorption, which helps prevent line freeze and brittleness in extreme cold. Ice lines also have lower memory to reduce coils and twists when working through small reel spools and rod guides. Depending on your setup, you can use monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braid — mono is versatile for most applications, fluoro is nearly invisible for finicky fish, and braid offers sensitivity for deep-water jigging.

Yes, line colour can make a big difference depending on water clarity and the fish you’re targeting. In clear water, low-visibility lines like clear or smoke-coloured fluorocarbon are best to avoid spooking fish. In darker or stained water, bright lines like yellow or hi-vis green help you see subtle bites above the ice, especially when jigging for perch or crappie. Many anglers pair a hi-vis mainline with a clear fluorocarbon leader to get the best of both worlds because it creates visibility for you and stealth for the fish.

Ice fishing rods are much shorter than open-water rods, typically 24 to 42 inches long. The best length depends on your technique and target species. Short rods (24–28") are perfect for tight spaces or small huts and give better control for light jigging. Medium rods (30–36") offer balance for panfish and walleye, while longer rods (38–42") provide leverage for larger species like lake trout or pike. Rod action also matters because it’s recommended to use ultralight for panfish, medium for walleye, and heavy for big predators.

The best ice fishing baits depend on the species you’re after. For perch and crappie, small jigs tipped with maggots or soft plastics work great. For walleye, use minnows, spoons, or rattle baits like the Rapala Jigging Rap. If you’re chasing lake trout or pike, try tube jigs, swimbaits, or large dead bait rigs. The key is to match your bait size and colour to water clarity and fish activity. Bright colours work in murky water, while natural tones shine in clear ice.

Staying warm and safe is essential for an enjoyable ice fishing trip. Always dress in layers with moisture-wicking base gear, insulated outerwear, and waterproof boots. Brands like Simms and Striker Ice make premium cold-weather gear designed for anglers. Check ice thickness before heading out with at least 4–6 inches for walking and 8–12 inches for snowmobiles or ATVs. Bring a spud bar, ice picks, and safety rope just in case. Portable shelters and heaters can make long days more comfortable.

Ontario offers world-class ice fishing with a variety of species to target all winter long. Popular catches include yellow perch, walleye, crappie, lake trout, northern pike, and whitefish. Smaller lakes often hold schools of panfish, while the Great Lakes and northern regions are prime for trophy trout and walleye. Each species has its preferred depth and bait, for example, perch loves small tungsten jigs, while walleye hit spoons or minnows.

To start ice fishing, you’ll need an ice rod and reel combo, ice line, and a few jigs or spoons. Add an auger to drill holes, a scoop to clear ice, and a bucket or flasher to track fish depth. For comfort, bring a portable shelter and heater, and don’t forget warm gloves, boots, and insulated clothing. Safety items like ice picks and a float suit are must-haves too. 

At Angling Sports, we carry everything you need, from rods and reels to shelters, augers, and apparel making us your one-stop shop for ice fishing in Canada.