The secret to fishing in ice water is having the best lures and baits with you. Whether you’re looking for ice fishing lures for perch, lake trout, walleye, or pike, you need one that will be sure to set you up for success.
If you ask anglers about their favorite lures for ice fishing, you’ll get plenty of options because everyone has their preferred way of fishing. So, which one should you choose from with so many options in the market? We have a comprehensive review of the best lures and jigs for ice fishing to help you decide.
1. Bait Rigs Oddball Jigs
Bait Rigs Oddball Rigs are one of the best ice fishing lures you can take with you for a good catch on the ice. It’s a versatile lure that can attract multiple species of fish, including walleye, trout, and perch.
This particular kit comes with six lures for ice fishing in three different colors: glow, blue, and green. The package also includes two extra rubber grubs to ensure you’re fully prepared for your next fishing trip.
One thing that makes this jig highly effective is its rock and twitches that mimic the movements of an injured minnow when jigged. With this movement easily attracts the target fish. The Oddball Rig is a great way to mix your fishing routine and add variety to your tackle box.
Another plus with this rig is that it can be used in deep and shallow waters, making it a versatile tool for any fisherman or woman. It’s also a good choice if you’re just starting because it’s not as complex as some of the other rigs out there.
2. Rapala Jigging Rap
When winter hits and everything starts to slow down, anglers turn to Rapala Jigging Rap because it’s one of the best lures for ice fishing. Rapala Jigging Raps are great for targeting panfish, but you can also use them to catch bass, walleye, and pike.
The jigs come in different colors, sizes, and weights that you can use to match the hatch, so to speak. If you’re not sure what color or size to use, just ask one of the knowledgeable staff at your local tackle shop, and they’ll point you in the right direction.
One thing to keep in mind when using Rapala Jigging Raps is that they need to be worked slowly and methodically to be effective. The best way to do this is with a steady up-and-down jigging motion, pausing for a few seconds between each jiggle. This pause is key, as it gives the fish time to react and strike the lure.
If you’re fishing in deep water, you’ll want to use a heavier ice fishing lure so that it can reach the bottom where the fish are hiding. In shallower water, a lighter lure is best to keep it close to the surface. And of course, in very clear water, you’ll want to go with a more natural-looking color so as not to scare the fish off.
3. The Salmo Chubby Darter
Another legend that you’ll never go wrong with when ice fishing is this little guy, the Salmo Chubby Darter. It’s a great lure for all types of fish but works especially well on perch, crappie, bass, and walleye. What’s nice about this lure is that it can be used in both deep and shallow water, making it versatile enough to use in any situation.
Its slow sink rate and unique shape also give it a great action that fish can’t resist. It’s available in a variety of colors to match any conditions. Whether you’re using it under a bobber or jigging it along the bottom, the Chubby Darter is sure to put fish in the ice house all winter long.
4. Dynamic Lures HD
This Dynamic Lures HD jig is uniquely designed to mimic a fish in distress, making it irresistible to predators. It’s great for all types of fish but works especially well on bass, pike, and walleye.
What sets this lure apart is its unique design, allowing it to move in a side-to-side motion, creating a realistic swimming action that fish just can’t resist. It comes with a hollow cavity and unique vibration that will attract a hungry fish.
The lure comes in different colors, including chartreuse, blue, and green. It also has a holographic finish that glimmers in the water, making it even more irresistible to fish.
The Dynamic Lures HD jig is a must-have for any serious angler. It’s sure to help you put more fish on the ice this winter.
5. Eagle Claw Glow Ice Jigs
Eagle Claw Glow offers you the simplicity and minimalism you need when fishing in icy conditions. It has a unique design that allows it to sink quickly and stay in place, giving you the perfect presentation every time. The jig is made of durable materials and comes in various sizes and colors.
It’s also equipped with a super-sharp hook that ensures you’ll never miss a fish. You can also pair your jig with plastic of your choice and change colors to match the conditions. For a cloudy day, you can choose something natural, like gray or white.
Eagle Claw Glow Ice Jigs are a great choice for anglers of all levels. They’re simple to use and offer unbeatable performance. Get your hands on a pack today and see for yourself.
6. The Live Target Golden Shiner
The Live Target Golden Shiner is a must-have for any serious angler looking for best ice fishing lures. This lure looks and swims just like a real shiner fish, making it irresistible to bass. It’s also equipped with a super-sharp hook that ensures you’ll never miss a fish.
You can fish the Live Target Golden Shiner in a variety of ways. You can slow-roll it along the bottom, fish it like a jerkbait, or even use it as a topwater lure. No matter how you fish it, this lure is sure to produce results.
The lure is perfect for jigging and open water fishing, thanks to its unique design. The anatomy and profile of this bait look like a juvenile baitfish that perfectly matches the hatch. Its perfect sinking capability to the bottom of the water column ensures anglers have better control. The lure is made of high-quality materials that can stand up to the elements.
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line shiner lure, look no further than the Live Target Golden Shiner. This lure will help you catch more fish and have more fun on the water.
7. Acme Kastmaster
Don’t let this winter catch you without Acme Kastmaster in your box because it’s one of the best ice fishing lures for catching panfish on ice water. It’s a simple yet effective lure that has been around for decades. The Kastmaster is great for targeting perch, bluegill, and Crappie.
It’s easy to use and can be fished with various techniques. The Kastmaster is also deadly when used under a tip-up for pike and walleye. The jig sinks quickly with a luring vibration that is likely to trigger a strike from predators. The slender end attached to the line is what mimics the movement of a struggling minnow.
You can fish the Kastmaster with various line types, including fluorocarbon, monofilament, and braided. The lure is also available in a variety of sizes and colors to match the hatch. No matter what type of fish you’re targeting on ice, the Acme Kastmaster will produce results you’ll be proud of.
8. Hali Sukkula Jig
This is a great hybrid-style jig that can be used for ice fishing and open water. It’s a versatile little lure that you can use to target a variety of species, including walleye, pike, trout, and perch.
The Hali Sukkula features a bright and colorful body that is sure to attract attention. The jig also has a unique shape that helps it swim through the water column with ease. Its lifelike body, minnow design, and realistic-looking eyes make this jig irresistible.
If you prefer vertical jigging, the Hali Sukkula is a great option. It’s also a good choice if you like to fish with live bait. The jig can be rigged with a minnow or worm for added appeal. No matter how you fish it, the Hali Sukkula is a versatile and effective lure that is sure to produce results.
Tips and Tricks for Choosing the Perfect Jigs and Lures
It doesn’t matter the type of lure or jig you take with you to the waters. If you don’t know what it entails to work with the best in ice water, you’ll likely not be successful in your efforts. Here are just a few tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your ice fishing lures and jigs:
Use heavier lures when fishing in deep water
Heavy ice fishing lures will help you reach the fish holding at lower depths. They also have a better chance of getting through weeds and other vegetation found in shallower waters.
When using heavy lures, it’s important to use a line that has a breaking strength that is twice the weight of your lure. This will help you avoid losing your lure to breakage.
Go with lighter lures when fishing in shallow water
Lighter lures for ice fishing are better for reaching fish that are holding in shallower waters. They are also less likely to get snagged on vegetation and other debris found in these areas.
When using lighter fishing lures, it’s important to use a line with a breaking strength equal to the weight of your lure.
The color of your lure matters
The color choice plays a big role in how effective your lure will be. Some colors are more visible to fish than others, making them more likely to strike.
Choose bright colors when fishing in clear water and darker colors when fishing in murky water.
Brightly colored lures are more visible to fish in murky waters. These colors will help attract the attention of fish that might not be able to see your lure as well if it were a more subdued color.
You can also choose natural colors when fishing and don’t want to scare away your target. Natural colors are those that approximate the colors of baitfish or other food sources that a fish might be interested in.
The lure size also affects its success
The size of your lure will also play a role in how successful it is. Lures that are too small may not be noticed by the fish you’re trying to catch, while too large fishing lures may scare them away. You’ll need to experiment to find the right size for your target fish.
Pay attention to the action of your lure
The action is the way your lure moves through the water. Some lures have a swimming action, while others have a jerking or wobbling action.
Again, you’ll need to experiment to find the right action for the fish you’re targeting. Different fish respond to different types of action, so it’s important to try out a few different options.
Keep your line in good condition
The condition of your line will also affect your success when fishing. If your line is old and frayed, it’s more likely to break when you get a bite. Make sure to regularly inspect your line and replace it if it’s starting to show signs of wear.
Conclusion
If you’re an experienced angler, you know how important it is to fish all season and be prepared for the weather conditions that seasons bring. Ice waters can be some of the most challenging to fish, but you can make it a successful season with the right preparation and tackle. Make sure you start by finding the best ice fishing lures as you prepare for the season.
Apart from choosing the right fishing lures and jigs for fishing in ice waters, always keep safety in mind. Ensure you have the proper clothing and equipment to stay safe on the ice. Be aware of your surroundings and never go out onto the ice alone. With proper preparation and tips, you can have a great ice fishing season for whatever kind of fish you’re trying to catch.
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