Ice fishing is a tradition for many in Madison. During the winters fishers bundle up and brave the freezing lake winds to cut a hole in the ice and catch a fish. But how did ice fishing start? Why is it such a popular winter activity? Where are the best places to go ice fishing in Madison? All will be answered in time

Ice fishing is the act of cutting a hole in the frozen surface of a body of water, and fishing through the ice with either traditional fishing hooks or spears. Many will sit in the cold for hours either just out on the open ice or in a small shelter called a shanty. 

Ice fishing was historically a matter of survival in the arctic during the cold months. The Ojibwe in northern Ontario were among the first to rely on ice fishing as a source for food and continue to practice the tradition today for both survival and recreation. These communities used under-ice nets to catch fish. Archeologists have found an under-ice fishing net as old as 10,000 years old.

Here in Madison many people enjoy ice fishing on Lake Wingra, Lake Monona, and Lake Mendota. From the time the ice on the lakes is thick enough until the ice melts you’ll see people out ice fishing. You’ll see trucks, small shanties, stools, and people watching and waiting for a fish to take their bait. Popular ice fishing areas in Madison include University bay and Marshall Lagoon on Lake Mendota, Tenney Park Wall on Lake Monona, Babcock Park and Lake Farm on Lake Waubesa, and Vilas Park on Lake Wingra. While out on any lake be cautious of how thin the ice is, cracks in the ice, and snow cover.

You are allowed to ice fish on any of the lakes here in Madison, however always follow Wisconsin fishing regulations for the protection of our lakes. If you plan to ice fish at any of the Dane County parks, and designated launch sites in the City of Madison you will need a daily or annual Dane County Lake Access permit. You can find Muskie, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Trout, and Catfish in the lakes in and around Madison (species vary by lake).