Vermont Ice Fishing
VT Winter Fishing On Frozen Ponds & Lakes
Vermont Ice Fishing
When late fall clamps an icy lid over Vermont lakes and waterways, some anglers put their fishing gear away for the winter. However, an increasing number of Vermont outdoor enthusiasts are leaving the comforts of home and poking holes through the ice. Some anglers claim that fishing strikes come faster in the wintertime.
The same fish that are sought in the summertime do, of course, lurk beneath the ice during the winter (though not all fish bite then), and the eating is every bit as good (some say better). Tackle, ice augers, clothing, and ice-fishing shanties have reached sophisticated proportions in dealing with the only known enemies of the wintertime Vermont angler: ice and cold.
Tip-ups are devices that signal when there is angling activity on your line. Designs vary, but the essential feature is a flag that “tips up” when a fish strikes. A tip-up consists of crossed bars approximately the size of a large tire wrench. One bar spans a fishing hole; the other bar—with a reel and small flag at opposite ends—dunks vertically into the water.
Equipment. From the buckets, sleds, shelters, heaters and other trappings strewn around ice anglers on a frozen Vermont lake, it is clear that equipment plays an important role in ice fishing. But it’s not the amount of equipment nor its complexity and cost that make for an effective ice-fishing outfit. More important is how the equipment fits the fishing style of the angler using it. Veteran ice anglers understand that, and no two of them are ever equipped exactly alike.
The only equipment about which anglers totally agree is clothing and boots, and anyone out on the ice in the wrong attire pays dearly in discomfort. The single most important item in an ice fishing wardrobe is footwear. Poorly shod feet pressed onto the ice will soon chill. Insulated rubber boots, or boots with separate, thick felt liners, are the best insurance against cold feet. Boots should fit loose enough to accommodate extra socks and to allow maximum blood circulation.
Good headgear is particularly important when ice fishing. Up to 80 percent of the heat lost on a cold day leaves the body from the head and neck. A wool cap or parka hood can provide comfort when you feel a chill, and if you’re on the verge of breaking into a sweat, you can cool off merely by exposing your head.
Gloves are also needed, although the importance placed on them varies among anglers. Some wear light gloves inside mittens and do all but the most delicate knot tying and hook baiting with the gloves on. Others wear bulky, loose-fitting mittens and put them aside to do most tasks. Some anglers use gloves only when lugging gear long distances, keeping their hands stuffed deep inside warm pockets the rest of the time. If you need gloves on the ice, take two pairs in case the first pair gets lost or wet.
Getting started in ice fishing is easy. You need only a couple of inexpensive, lightly-rigged jigging poles (2- to 4-pound test for panfish, 6- to 8-pound for walleye), a few jigs and lures, small bobbers, split-shot, live bait such as minnows or waxworms, a bucket to transport gear and to sit on, an ice auger, and ice-skimmer.
An ideal way for a novice to try his or her hand at this sport is to hook up with a resort that runs its own ice-fishing operation. They will have shanties located in productive spots and can give you the latest on what fish are biting, and which ice fishing tactics are working best.
If you want to go it alone, some basic tips will help. There are three Vermont ice-fishing seasons: first ice, mid-winter, and last ice. Many anglers believe first ice is the most productive, as fish are actively feeding, often still in shallow water. But first ice also can be dangerous. Never go out on any lake unless you’re sure the ice is safe.
In mid-winter, weeds along the shore die, and fish tend to move deeper. As light diminishes and temperatures plummet, feeding tends to slow. But if you can locate schools of crappies, perch or walleye in pockets of deep water, vigorous jigging and the right lures can bring success.
Last ice brings new weed growth along shorelines, as well as more warmth and light, so fish tend to move back toward shallower water. In all three seasons, it helps to know something about a lakes bottom structure. Sporting goods stores carry detailed maps of many lakes. If you know a lake from fishing it in warm weather, apply that knowledge to your winter fishing.
Is the Ice safe? Even though you may be eager to enjoy ice fishing, beware! Ice can be dangerous. Here are some hints on determining ice safety.
*Lakes rarely freeze uniformly. Early and late in the season, ice that’s safe in the morning may be dangerous by afternoon.
*Prolonged frigid weather makes for safe, thick ice. Use an auger to test ice. At least four inches of clear, blue ice is probably safe for lone anglers and small groups of people in most conditions.
*Single, unbroken pressure cracks in the ice are probably safe to cross, but stay away from areas where cracks meet or intersect.
*Be extra careful where water levels vary, as in rivers, streams, inlets, outlets, coves, eddies, and springs. Moving water erodes ice from beneath, as does wind pushing water under ice.
*Avoid areas with “stick-ups.” Protruding logs, brush, plants, and docks absorb heat from the sun, thereby weakening the surrounding ice.
What’s the Best Ice Fishing Line? 
Technological advancements have created many “perfect” ice lines. None, however, is perfect for everything. Superlines, those braided polyethylene wonders, are perfect for walleyes in deep water, but only in some situations (not at minus 30F). Superlines are also less than perfect for hard-fighting fish, because fishhooks tend to rip out.
Where to Ice Fish. Vermont offers a number of productive destinations for the ice angler. Try Great and Little Averill Ponds near Averill; Lake Bomoseen near Castleton; Caspian Lake near Greensboro; Chittenden Reservoir near Chittenden; Lake Dunmore, near Salisbury; Eden Lake, near Eden; Harriman Reservoir near Wilmington; Island Pond near Island Pond, Vermont; Maidstone Lake, near Maidstone; Lac Memphremagog, near Newport; Shadow Lake, near Glover; Waterbury Reservoir, near Waterbury; Lake Fairlee, near Fairlee; and my personal favorite, Green River Reservoir, near Centerville.
A winter ice-angling mainstay in Vermont traditionally has been perch. The trick in perch fishing is to find a “hot” hole. In any perch area, there are always certain spots that produce the best. I won’t spend much time at a hole unless bites are coming fast. Keep moving and drilling new holes until you hit a bonanza. I’m also partial to certain lures. For some reason, colors like green or red are tops in shallow water. Silver seems to be best in deep water. Persons planning to ice fish in Vermont should check the rules governing the specific waters he or she plans to visit. Those rules can be found at local bait and tackle shops.
Initially, perhaps, a novice may find ice fishing simply an intriguing pastime to occupy long winter days. But once a person has mastered the essential skills, which is not difficult to do, an angler will find it an excellent way to enhance the dinner table. It all adds up to an extended fishing season and gives another dimension to Vermont’s winter sports scene. For additional information about Vermont ice fishing write to Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife, 111 West Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452.
– Mary Syrett
Good Luck Fishing in Vermont!
Ice Fishing Equipment Sale
- Coleman Cold – built-in 4-can cooler lets you grab a cold drink without getting up
- Mesh cup holder
- Fully cushioned seat and back
- Side pockets
- Strong steel frame
- Adjustable arm heights
- Roomy 24-in. seat
- Comfortable 18.1-in. sitting height
- Supports up to 325 lbs
- Carry bag included
- FAST DRYING FOR ALL FOOTWEAR: Upgraded model dries two pairs of work boots, shoes, or gloves at once with strong heated air circulation. Ideal for families with multiple users, it prepares sneakers, ski boots, or gloves quickly. Fast performance ensures all gear is dry and ready to go, saving time while protecting materials from overheating or wear. Ideal for getting winter gear ready in record time.
- HELPS REDUCE ODOR & MOISTURE: Combat dampness that causes stink with this shoe dryer for boots and sneakers. By continuously drying overnight, it pulls out sweat and moisture using the Ozone switch to better sanitize and deodorize your footwear. Keeps gloves, cleats, and gear fresh. Ideal for hunters, athletes, and workers who return home with wet shoes and want them ready, dry, and fresh by the next morning.
- DURABLE AND EASY TO USE: Made for heavy-duty use, this dryer provides easy, consistent, reliable performance day after day. Ideal for those who rely on dry footwear at work or in sports, with less need for laundry machine use. It keeps shoes, gloves, hockey gear, and helmets fresh and long-lasting. Its compact and rugged design makes it a dependable addition for households, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
- GENTLE WARM AIR FOR MANY MATERIALS: Gentle warm air drying is safe for rubber, neoprene, synthetics, canvas, fleece, and microfiber. Whether drying work boots, boxing glove leather, snowboarding boots, or helmets, it protects against cracking and warping. This makes it a versatile shoe dryer capable of handling the variety of gear used by athletes, outdoor workers, or families with winter equipment.
- CUSTOMIZABLE TIMER FUNCTION: Features an adjustable timer up to 180 minutes, allowing customized drying cycles for lightly damp sneakers, fully soaked work boots, or thick ski gloves. This ensures precise results without overdrying or damaging materials, giving safe, efficient performance for different gear types and levels of moisture.
- WATER RESISTANT & WINDPROOF FABRIC - This Balaclava hood is made from water resistant and windproof fleece thermal fabric to effectively reduces the cold index. But it is not full waterproof, it is okay in the light rain but not long time.
- BREATHE FREELY - This full face cover has a breathable mesh design on the nose and mouth part so that you can breathe freely while still keeping warm.
- UNISEX BALACLAVA HAT - Stretchable fabric to fits most heads, it is a good winter gear for men and women.
- GOOD DESIGN - It is a multi-fuctional balaclava, such as, neck warmer, cold weather face cover, head protection from cold, wind, sprinkle and dust. It can be used as neck scarf, bandana and winter cap. The black color can match almost each kind of design and color of clothes.
- GOOD CHOICE IN WINTER FOR - Skiing, Snowboarding, Cycling, Motorcycle, Hunting, Hiking, Climbing, Airsot paintball, Tactical training and so on...
- 【APP-Enabled Precision Heating】DEORFGO heated socks pair with the free APP (iOS/Android), allowing you to adjust 4 temperature levels, timed heating function , check battery display , and schedule heating cycles from your phone – perfect for hands-free operation during skiing or ice fishing.
- 【Dual 6000mAh Fast-Charge Batteries】The foot warmers Equipped with two 6,000mAh rechargeable batteries per pair Electric heated socks, 10s Rapid heating function can quickly raises the temperature of your socks ，，deliver up to 10 hours of continuous warmth on low heat，and the heat socks can be adjusted to any temperature between 113 ℉ and 158 ℉ via the APP. The pocket-sized batteries charge fully in 2.5 hours via USB-C and work with power banks – never fear cold feet again!
- 【All-Weather Performance Fabric】Built for Cold Season: Windproof outer layer + breathable merino wool interior retains heat in -25°C conditions. Reinforced toe/heel grips prevent slippage in boots, while moisture-wicking tech keeps feet dry during high-intensity activities like cycling or hiking.Our heated socks can be given to mom and dad as a Christmas gift.
- 【Hassle-Free Maintenance】Washable heated ski socks,simply remove the batteries and machine wash (gentle cycle).
- 【Perfect Gifts】Unisex Design:The heated socks come with one-size-fits-all design,and the stretchy material ensures these rechargeable heated socks stay in place without bunching, offering a cozy feel that’s perfect for men, women.This is a good gift for people who need outdoor activities and keep warm.
- CONVENIENT PATENT DESIGN:An Out of the Ordinary FLeece Winter Balaclava！！！Our product team has designed a Movable Face Part Ski Mask base on the ordinary. It is separate and movable, you can move it up, down, back.Motorcycle balaclava is convenient that you can move down the face part if you no need.But you don't worry the winter cold close to your head and neck, your head and neck still feel warm.
- BREATHABLE NOSE MESH:The mouth and nose part of the snowboard mask are designed with breathable mesh, allowing you to breathe smoothly even doing outdoor activities or wearing for long time. The face parts also fleece fabric and warms your face,as the same time, the mesh reduces fogs up your goggles while you motorcycle riding or skiing.
- THERMAL POLAR FLEECE:You can directly feeling the delicate softness through the pictures.The BEACE face cover is made of high quality Fleece fabric which is soft,breathable, extra-stretchy,Windproof.Our Balaclava face mask will provide comprehensive protection for your head, face, and neck, making it warm and comfortable to wear. Don't worry about freezing your face or ears in the cold winter.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL BALACLAVA:The face cover shield for cold weather will meet your need when you are in skiing, snowboarding, outdoor working, motorcycle, cycling, running, jogging, sledding, hiking, ice fishing or other outdoor sports. The suitable thickness also provides great under helmet comfort. Provide the ultimate warmth protection in winter.
- UNIVERSAL SIZE: Excellent elasticity and one size fits most no matter you are men, women or teens. Size is : 17 * 9.2in（L*W）. Head size is about 21-24 in. Hand wash is more recommended and in this way can extend its using time.pls allow 2-3CM differs due to manual measurement.
- NO ICE NEEDED: RapidChill Technology is our innovative two-part system that spins an auger around a cooling cylinder to freeze liquid evenly and maintain optimal temperature for perfect icy treats.
- A SUPERIOR FROZEN DRINK EXPERIENCE: With this versatile machine, turn your favorite liquids into smooth, flavorful frozen drinks: wine, coffee, soda, juice, chocolate milk, and more. Simply pour the liquid in, select your program, and watch it transform.
- ONE-TOUCH FROZEN DRINKS: Temperature and texture controls deliver consistently smooth results in up to 60 minutes at max capacity. Creating drinks can take 15-60 minutes depending on ingredients, volume, and starting temperature. Must include sugar to slush.
- HACK YOUR SUGAR-FREE RECIPES: Sugar-free recipes will not slush properly on their own. Add one of our recommended sugar substitutes to the recipe to ensure perfect slushing.
- 5 PRESET SETTINGS: Automated programs give you tailored temperature settings to yield the perfect output every time.
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Customize whether you want the output to be thicker or thinner than the preset setting.
- EASY-FILL VESSEL: Easy to fill up, top off, and remove for cleaning. Creates slush quickly and keeps drinks frozen for up to 12 hours. VESSEL : 88Oz Vessel. (Max liquid fill : 64Oz Liquid - and Serving size : 9 oz)
- HASSLE-FREE CLEANUP: Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts. Features a detachable lid and drip tray allowing for easier cleaning between uses.
- WHISPERCHILL COMPRESSOR: Quietly keeps your slushed treats at the perfect temperature and texture for up to 12 hours.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: AC Cooling System, 88 oz. Vessel, 5 Preset Programs, Temperature Control Settings, Drip Tray, Pour Handle, Premium Accents and Dial, 10 Recipe Inspiration Guide.
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Designed with a new model upgraded bit and more blades on the shaft, this planting auger for drills ensures heightened efficiency in gardens.
- SIZE: Measuring 2"(D) x 14.5"(L), this auger drill bit is equipped with a 3/8 inch non-slip drive, making it an ideal tool for digging holes in your yard.
- EASY TO USE: Compatible with any 3/8" chucked drill. We recommend using an 18V or higher drill. Keep the auger clean from soil and debris when not in use.
- WIDE APPLICATION: Our garden auger is the best choice for enhancing efficiency when planting bulbs, potted plants, vegetables, flowers, bare-root trees, and shrubs. It's also suitable for tilling soil or planter boxes, mixing seed, soil, fertilizer, paint, or batches of mortar mix for hardscapes. The auger drill bit can effortlessly dig post holes, and it's even handy for anchoring your beach umbrella in the sand during vacations. It will be an invaluable helper for you.
- BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: We offer a 2-year warranty service. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
- MADE IN THE USA - Nylon core covered in thick soft rubber; Strong and flexible
- FITS STANDARD SIZE BARS - Mounts to handlebars and tubular bars or railings 5/8” to 1” in diameter
- MAXIMIZE SPACE - Offset holder allows for use of more cargo rack space
- GRIPS YOUR GEAR - Rubber spurs cushion and grip your item securely
- SINGLE RACK - Holder carries one gun, bow, fishing rod or shovel on ATVs, bikes, and tree stands; NOT recommended for ice augers or crossbows
- Delivers HIGH OUTPUT 12.0 power in a smaller size and lighter weight
- COOL-CYCLE Active Cooling System provides high-speed cooling for less downtime with COOL-CYCLE capable chargers
- 35min supercharge to 80% with the M18 Dual Bay Simultaneous Super Charger
- Longest life for the most recharges and best performance over the life of the pack
- REDLITHIUM FORGE provides the most powerful, fastest charging, and longest life batteries within REDLITHIUM
- The planting auger for drill designed with new model upgraded bit and more spirals on the solid shaft, ensures digging holes 10 times working efficiency, extremely increase your planting efficiency and you have more time enjoy the planting season.
- Planting auger for drill made of heavy duty steel with black paint coated for long service time. Extended length 16.5inch will make you stand up digging holes for planting instead bending over, really necessary tool in your planting season. Heavy duty solid shaft will work on any kinds of soils.
- Auger bits size is 1.6nch diameter by 16.5inch length, suitable for planting all kinds of bulbs and flowers of different sizes. 16.5inch length will also prevent you from back strain, don’t need to bend over so much to dig holes like the traditional way using a shovel.
- The pointed triangle bit of the auger drill bit has a small hole on it for easily hanging storage when not in use. Fit any 3/8” hex drive drill, please using drill with adjustable drill chuck to fit any sizes augers, you will never worry about if the auger fit your drill any more. 18V or larger cordless drill recommended.
- Package include 1.6x16.5inch solid shaft intensive blades auger drill bit. Great gift ideas for anyone who loves doing garden work, will help them planting potted plants, vegetables, flowers, bulbs, soils, paint and so on. Also can bring earth drill on vacation to drill a hole in sand to anchor your beach umbrella and outdoor tents.
- Factory sealed DVD
- Condition: New
- Format: DVD
- Closed-captioned; Color; DVD; NTSC
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department publishes an informative Guide to Vermont Fishing that includes a map of Vermont and suggested lakes and streams, as well as designated charts of species found in each body of water. This guide is free and may be obtained wherever Vermont fishing licenses are sold, or by writing to:
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671-0501
Phone: 802-241-3700
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