Ice Fishing on Red Lake, Minnesota

Ice Fishing on Red Lake, Minnesota: A Frozen Paradise for Anglers

When winter tightens its grip on Minnesota, something extraordinary happens up north. Red Lake freezes, and with it, a whole new fishing season begins. For ice anglers, Red Lake isn’t just another destination — it’s a pilgrimage. With early ice, abundant walleye, and a landscape transformed into a snowy wonderland, this lake offers one of the best ice fishing experiences in the Midwest.

Why Red Lake is a Winter Fishing Hotspot

Located in Beltrami County in northern Minnesota, Upper Red Lake is the largest inland lake entirely within the state. Once the ice locks in—usually earlier than most major lakes due to its shallow depth—anglers from Minnesota and beyond flock to its frozen expanse.

Upper Red Lake covers over 48,000 acres and averages just 15 feet deep, making it a perfect habitat for walleye in the cold months. The fish stay active all winter long, and because of the lake’s broad, flat structure, you don’t need to chase deep basins or underwater ledges. Walleye are often caught in as little as 8–12 feet of water.

Lower Red Lake, meanwhile, lies entirely within the Red Lake Nation and is off-limits to non-tribal anglers unless permitted.

When Does Ice Fishing Season Start?

Red Lake is often the first large lake in Minnesota to support safe ice fishing, sometimes as early as late November. Resorts and outfitters typically begin plowing roads and setting up rental houses by the first or second week of December, depending on ice conditions.

The season kicks off fast and furious — early ice often means peak action. As long as the ice holds (usually into March), fishing remains strong, especially during low-light hours.

What You’ll Catch

The primary target in winter is walleye, and Red Lake is famous for its generous population and quality fish.

◉ Walleye: The star of the show. Most catches range from 13 to 18 inches, though bigger fish are possible.

◉ Northern Pike: Abundant and aggressive, especially in the shallows. They’re common bycatch while jigging or dead-sticking for walleye.

◉ Perch: Small but present. Occasionally, jumbo perch show up as a surprise bonus.

Crappie populations exist but are limited and unpredictable in winter.

2025 Ice Fishing Regulations (Upper Red Lake)

As of the latest Minnesota DNR update:

◉ Walleye Limit: Daily and possession limit of 5, with only one fish over 17 inches allowed.

◉ Northern Pike Limit: 3 per day. All pike 30–40 inches must be released; only one over 40 inches may be kept.

Regulations can change based on population surveys, so always check the Minnesota DNR Red Lake page before heading out.

Best Tactics and Gear for Ice Fishing on Red Lake

Gear Essentials:

◉ Medium-light rod with fast action tip for finesse presentations.

◉ 8–10 lb test line (fluorocarbon or mono); go heavier for pike.

◉ Portable fish finder or flasher is a game-changer.

Hot Lures & Presentations:

◉ Glow jigs tipped with fathead minnows are a staple.

◉ Rattle spoons like the Rippin’ Rap or Buck-Shot spoon attract fish with sound and flash.

◉ Dead-sticking a plain hook and minnow on a second line is a classic technique.

Walleye are most active during dawn and dusk. Midday bites can still happen but tend to be slower.

Safety First: Ice Conditions Matter

Red Lake might freeze early, but always treat early and late-season ice with caution. General ice thickness guidelines:

◉ 4 inches: Minimum for walking.

◉ 6–8 inches: Snowmobiles or ATVs.

◉ 12–15 inches: Light vehicles or small trucks.

Always bring a spud bar, ice picks, and a buddy. Check in with resorts for current ice conditions before you go.

Conservation and the Comeback Story

Red Lake’s walleye population crashed in the 1990s, prompting a cooperative restoration between the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians and the Minnesota DNR. Thanks to these efforts, the lake rebounded dramatically. Anglers now enjoy consistent action—but it’s crucial to respect limits and the ecosystem to preserve this success story.

Final Thoughts: A Winter Fishing Experience Like No Other

Red Lake in winter is something special. There’s the thrill of catching walleye through crystal-clear ice. The comfort of heated shacks under a sky full of stars. The camaraderie of anglers gathered on a frozen sea. Whether you’re new to ice fishing or a seasoned vet, Red Lake delivers memories, not just fish.