When winter blankets the country in snow and transforms lakes into frozen playgrounds, ice fishing enthusiasts gear up for one of the season’s most popular activities. From competitive tournaments to family-friendly community events, the 2026 ice fishing season promises plenty of action on frozen waters across America. But as veterans of the sport know, having fun on the ice means putting safety first.
- The 2026 Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is on January 31st, 2026, and it’s one of the largest charitable ice fishing tournaments in the country.
- Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for people headed out on foot, but conditions can vary dramatically across the same body of water.
- Reports of vehicles going through the ice remind anglers that conditions are still early-season, and many experienced anglers are sticking to walking for now.
Top Ice Fishing Events This Season
If you’re planning to fish competitively this winter, there are some incredible tournaments happening across the country. Last year’s Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival attracted over 1.86 million visitors, making it one of the world’s largest ice fishing festivals. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Utah State Parks will be sponsoring several ice-fishing events and tournaments around the state over the next few months.
From high-profile tournaments like the Moosehead Lake Togue Derby to small-town fire department fundraisers, Maine’s 2026 ice fishing derbies highlight the spirit of winter in the Pine Tree State. Whether you’re in Columbus, Indiana, or any other part of the country, local fishing clubs and outdoor retailers can point you toward the nearest derby or tournament.
Understanding Ice Safety Basics
Ask any seasoned ice angler and they’ll tell you the same thing: no ice is 100% safe. Ice seldom freezes uniformly, and it may be a foot thick in one location and only an inch or two just a few feet away.
A minimum of 4 inches of clear, solid ice is required to support an average person’s weight. White ice or “snow ice” is only about half as strong as new clear ice, which means you need to double your thickness requirements when dealing with snow-covered ice.
Ice fisherman Dan Duffield explains that ice thickness can vary greatly, saying “Right now, the ice thickness is probably, if there is any ice to get on around us, maybe two to three inches, and two inches will support me, but it’s not always the same thickness across a lake or across a channel”. This variation makes testing as you move across the ice absolutely necessary.
Equipment You Need to Stay Safe
Before stepping onto frozen water, make sure you have the right safety gear. Experts recommend wearing creepers for traction, carrying ice safety spikes and bringing a throwable rope. Use a spud bar to check ice stability before moving forward.
You should carry basic safety gear: ice claws or picks, a cellphone in a waterproof bag, a life jacket and length of rope. Ice picks worn around your neck give you quick access if you break through.
Dress in layers and bring food and equipment to stay warm. Hypothermia is a real threat when you’re spending hours in freezing temperatures.
Danger Zones to Avoid When Ice Fishing
Ice formed over flowing water is often dangerous, especially near streams, bridges and culverts. Ice outside river bends is usually weaker due to the undermining effects of faster current.
Areas near current, aerators, narrows, bridges and access points demand extra attention. Local bait shops are great resources for finding out where the thin spots are on your favorite lake.
Due to warm weather this year, some events may be canceled if unsafe ice conditions develop, so always check event websites for updates before you head out.
What to Do If You Fall Through While Ice Fishing
Even with all precautions in place, accidents can happen. If you do go through the ice, remember that the direction you came from is safe and held your weight, so orient yourself and go back the way that you came.
Once back on the ice, don’t try to stand up. Lie flat until you are completely out of the water, then roll away from the hole to keep your weight spread out. Once you’re back to safety, get dry and warm as quickly as possible.
Get Out There and Fish Smart
Ice fishing offers a unique way to enjoy winter and catch fish when most people have stored their gear for the season. With dozens of tournaments and community events happening this winter, there’s never been a better time to try this sport.
Experts stress the importance of never going out alone. Tag along with an experienced friend for your first time, attend a safety seminar, and never assume ice conditions are the same as they were yesterday.
Check local regulations before you head out, pack your safety gear, and get ready for some of the best fishing of the year.