Top-Rated Ice Fishing on St. Croix River

Full Day St. Croix River Ice Fishing Adventure

When winter locks up the St. Croix River, that's when the real fishing begins. Captain Jamison Johnson knows these frozen waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some seriously impressive fish. This full-day ice fishing trip targets two of the river's most sought-after species: massive lake sturgeon and hard-fighting walleye. You'll spend eight solid hours on the ice with heated shelters, top-quality gear, and a guide who's been working these waters for years. Whether you're new to ice fishing or you've been punching holes since you could walk, this trip delivers the kind of winter fishing that keeps anglers coming back season after season.

What to Expect on the Ice

We'll meet up at either Lakeside Park in Bayport or the St. Croix crossing public launch, depending on where the fish are biting best that day. Captain Jamison scouts these spots regularly and knows exactly where to set up for success. The beauty of an 8-hour trip is that we've got time to really work the water - no rushing, no cramming everything into a few short hours. We'll drill multiple holes, set up lines, and move around as needed to stay on the fish. The heated shelters make all the difference when you're spending a full day out there, especially during those bitter cold snaps that seem to make the fish even more active. This isn't just about dropping a line through the ice - it's about reading the water, understanding fish behavior in winter conditions, and putting in the time to connect with some trophy-class fish.

Gear Setup and Ice Techniques

All the gear you need comes with the trip, from rods and reels to bait and tackle specifically chosen for St. Croix River conditions. We use quality ice augers to punch clean holes, and Captain Jamison brings along electronics to help locate fish and monitor what's happening below the ice. For sturgeon, we'll set up with heavier tackle and use techniques that account for these prehistoric fighters and their incredible strength. Walleye fishing requires a more finesse approach - lighter lines, precise jigging, and the kind of patience that pays off when these schooling fish move through. The heated shelters aren't just for comfort; they're strategically placed based on underwater structure, current breaks, and the seasonal patterns that concentrate fish in specific areas during winter months.

Target Game Breakdown

Lake sturgeon are the true giants of the St. Croix River, and winter ice fishing offers some of the best opportunities to connect with these ancient fish. These bottom-dwellers can live over 100 years and reach massive sizes - we're talking fish that can easily top 50 inches and weigh more than most anglers expect. Sturgeon are most active during the coldest months, feeding heavily on the river bottom where they use their sensitive barbels to locate food. What makes catching a sturgeon so special isn't just the size - it's the fight. These fish have incredible strength and endurance, and landing one through an ice hole is a memory that sticks with you forever. The St. Croix population is healthy and well-managed, making it one of the top destinations for trophy sturgeon fishing in the region.

Walleye fishing on the St. Croix during winter is a completely different game, but equally rewarding. These fish school up in deeper holes and current breaks, making them easier to locate once you find them. Winter walleye tend to be less active than their summer counterparts, but when they bite, they bite hard. The key is understanding their daily movement patterns and adjusting your presentation accordingly. Early morning and late afternoon often produce the best action, though midday can surprise you when conditions are right. St. Croix walleye are known for their size and fight - these aren't the typical eating-size fish you might catch elsewhere. Many anglers are shocked by the shoulders on these river walleye, and their aggressive nature makes for exciting fishing even in the dead of winter.

Time to Book Your Spot

This full-day ice fishing adventure represents some of the best value fishing you'll find anywhere in the region. Eight hours with an experienced guide, all gear included, and access to some of the most productive winter fishing waters around - it's the kind of trip that converts casual anglers into ice fishing fanatics. The trip accommodates up to 2 guests at the base price, with additional spots available for $50 per person. Captain Jamison can handle groups larger than 12 with advance notice, making this perfect for family outings, corporate groups, or just a bunch of friends looking to experience world-class winter fishing. The St. Croix River consistently produces fish throughout the ice season, and booking early ensures you get the dates you want. Don't let another winter slip by without experiencing what many consider the best ice fishing the area has to offer.