Best Ice Fishing Lakes in Minnesota & Wisconsin
The best lakes for ice fishing in Minnesota & Wisconsin. Public access, ice-out data, and walleye, crappie, perch, and panfish populations. Ranked by species and quality.
Recreation rankings need public-access, beach and launch, depth, and fish-survey data, which currently cover Minnesota & Wisconsin lakes. Water-quality grades themselves span all 49 states and 2 Canadian provinces LakeQuality covers.
| Rank | Lake | County | State | Grade | Fish Species | Ice-Free Days | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Broadwater Bay Lake | Cass | MN | A | 22 | 215 | Public |
| 2 | Green Lake | Green Lake | WI | A | 7 | — | Public |
| 3 | Spider (Ne Lake | Hubbard | MN | A | 13 | — | Public |
| 4 | Geneva Lake | Walworth | WI | A | 6 | — | Public |
| 5 | Little Sand Lake | Hubbard | MN | A | 17 | 224 | Public |
| 6 | Lac Courte Oreilles Lake | Sawyer | WI | A | 6 | — | Public |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes are best for ice fishing in Minnesota & Wisconsin?
The best ice fishing lakes have public access, healthy populations of popular winter species (walleye, crappie, perch, bluegill, northern pike), and reliable ice formation. Lakes with longer ice seasons and multiple fish species offer the most versatile winter fishing.
When does ice fishing season start?
Ice fishing typically begins in late November to early December, depending on the lake and weather conditions. Always check ice thickness before venturing out, a minimum of 4 inches of clear ice is recommended for walking, and 12 inches or more for vehicles.
Top Picks: Ice Fishing Lakes
Source: EPA National Aquatic Resource Surveys, 2026.