Ice fishing on Lake Minnetonka can be a fantastic experience! The lake is known for its diverse fish population, including walleye, northern pike, and crappies. The key time for ice fishing on Lake Minnetonka typically runs from late December to mid-March, depending on weather conditions. Always check local ice conditions and consult with local anglers or bait shops for the best times and spots.
Tips for Successful Ice-fishing on Lake Minnetonka.
Check Ice Conditions:
Before heading out, always check the ice thickness. Generally, 4 inches of clear ice is safe for foot traffic, but more is better.
Licenses and Regulations:
Make sure you have the necessary fishing license and are aware of the local regulations, including any specific rules for ice fishing on Minnetonka. Please, make sure you are compliant with local rules and regulations with the Department of Natural Resources HERE.
You may also want to have a print off all the local marina resources for Lake Minnetonka in case you need something while ice-fishing. Here is a handy printable PDF of marina contact information HERE.
Ice-fishing Safety Requires the Right Gear:
Wear appropriate clothing in layers, and consider bringing safety gear like an ice pick, rope, and a flotation device. Safety is crucial when ice fishing. Dress in layers to stay warm and wear waterproof boots. Insulated, non-slip footwear is essential for traction. Carry ice picks, a throw rope, and a flotation device. Ice picks can help pull yourself out if you fall through. Stay away from areas with moving water, such as inlets, outlets, and currents, as these can weaken the ice.
Safety First When Ice-fishing on Lake Minnetonka
It is safer to go ice fishing with a friend, make sure if you plan on ice-fishing on Lake Minnetonka, people outside your ice-fishing party know the location you are fishing for the day. If something goes wrong, having someone nearby can be critical. Time is of the essence when dealing with wintry weather. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to leave if conditions change rapidly.
Always have a basic first aid kit on hand in case of minor injuries. Ensure your cell phone is fully charged in case you need to make emergency contact with someone outside your ice-fishing party.
PRO TIP: Call Chartered Rentals for all your Snowmobile and Ice-fishing needs. They offer guided experiences for everyone from novice to expert. 320-310-9089 and tell them that MINNēSTAY sent you!
Be careful when using augers and other equipment. Make sure to keep your hands clear and use tools properly.
How to Find Fish When Ice-fishing on Lake Minnetonka:
Securing an Icehouse is one of the first things you need to do when planning an ice-fishing excursion on Lake Minnetonka. The good news is that you can arrange for a rental from Rel Fishing, and you can also hire them to be your guide. Rentals come with everything you need for the ultimate day of ice fishing. You can even bring small or large groups to have the ultimate ice-fishing experience. Learn more about Rel Fishing HERE.
While the guides are wonderful at helping you determine the best place to find fish on Lake Minnetonka, there are also great groups to help you if you are the DIY kind of ice-fisher including this Facebook page for Lake Minnetonka Fishing.
Book Your Ice-fishing Stay with MINNēSTAY on Lake Minnetonka
MINNēSTAY has several wonderful vacation rental properties right on the banks of Lake Minnetonka. They make your ice-fishing adventures a reality with a luxury property to warm up in after your ice-fishing adventures. The best part about Lake Minnetonka is that it is only about 20 minutes from Minneapolis. Here are some of the many options that MINNēSTAY has to offer:
Blue Horizon
Located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, with 2 king beds, 2 queen beds and 3 full baths, this fully equipped house makes for a great ice-fishing home base with plenty of space for three couples or a family winger adventure. Learn more about this lakeside property HERE.
Carlow Manor
This stunning property sleeps 6 comfortably with three bedrooms and 2 baths. You can bring your fur baby to this adventure on Lake Minnetonka too! Just steps away from the lake, this property is a wonderful place for an adult weekend! Learn more about it HERE.
Bayside Escape:
Nestled along the shore of Saint Alban's Bay, Bayside Escape sleeps 9 with a whopping 5 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Minutes away from historic downtown Excelsior this property has everything you would want for a winter escape to Lake Minnetonka. Learn more HERE.
Lakefront Luxury:
On the shore of Lake Minnetonka, Lakefront Luxury boasts 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths and 10 sleep comfortably. Minutes from town this is the perfect winter escape from the city in the winter months. Learn more about this lakefront property HERE.
Check out all of our lakefront properties now, and book your next adventure with MINNēSTAY today!