Ice fishing is an enjoyable form of outdoor recreation that is most popular in areas where winter temperatures are low enough to produce safe fishing ice for several months out of the year. With its consistent polar climate and multitude of healthy fishing lakes, Alaska is a top choice for many ice fishermen in North America. Starting in mid-November and early December, most lakes in central Alaska produce thick enough ice for ice fishing and plenty of fish for the taking.
Where to Fish
Ice fishing is available at most lakes throughout the state, but the best spots are those that are stocked for fishing and provide resources for fishermen such as warming huts and equipment rental. Some of the most popular ice fishing lakes are Quartz Lake, Campbell Point, Clunie Lake, Delong Lake, Jewel Lake, Mirror Lake and Sand Lakes. More remote lakes in the far north and interior of the state may be less crowded during high season but are considerably more difficult to get to.
Necessary Equipment
As with any kind of fishing, ice fishing requires certain equipment that you'll need to purchase or rent before heading to the lake. First, you'll need a gas-powered or hand-cranked auger, a device used to drill holes in the ice so you can enter your lure. You'll also need an ice skimmer or strainer to keep the hole free of ice. A fishing pole, 10-lb. test line, small jigs and sinkers are essential tackle items. For bait, you can use worms, larvae, grub, popcorn, shrimp, or corn, though hungry fish will eat many other things as well.
Available Species
Alaskan lakes are home to a wide variety of fish species that you can catch year-round, even during the winter. These include Chinook salmon, grayling, rainbow trout, Arctic char and lake trout. Some of these fish are left over from summer stocking, while others, like the Chinook salmon, are stocked specifically for winter fishing.
Alaska Fishing Regulations
Alaska fishing regulations are the same in winter as they are in the summer. All anglers, both residents and nonresidents of Alaska, must obtain a fishing license either through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game or through the many bait and tackle stores, hotels and air taxi services that offer licenses. The cost of a license depends on its duration. A one day license is $10, while a yearlong license is $100. Refer to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for the latest information on fishing regulations (see Resources).
Safety Considerations
Ice fishing presents a considerable number of dangers not normally associated with warm weather fishing, and most of these have to do with the cold and unpredictable weather. Alaska is extremely cold during the winter, with temperatures well below freezing. As with any outdoor winter activity, take all the necessary precautions to avoid hypothermia. Wear multiple clothing layers for maximum heat retention and always wear a wind and waterproof jacket on the outer layer. Hat, gloves, scarf, long underwear and thick socks are all essential for staying warm while ice fishing. Be wary of thin ice, especially during the warmer spring season when ice begins to thaw.
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