Top-Rated St. Croix Ice Fishing for Sturgeon

Half Day Ice Fishing for Sturgeon and Crappie

Captain Jamison Johnson knows the St. Croix River like the back of his hand, and he's ready to share some of his best winter fishing secrets with you. This 4-hour ice fishing adventure targets two of the river's most sought-after species - prehistoric Lake Sturgeon and tasty Crappie. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add something new to your bucket list or a first-timer curious about ice fishing, this trip delivers the perfect blend of comfort and excitement. We launch from the St. Croix crossing public boat access, where heated shelters and quality gear keep you comfortable while you wait for that rod tip to dance. With morning and evening departure options, you can fit this world-class fishing experience into any schedule.

What to Expect on the Ice

This isn't your typical rough-it-out ice fishing trip. Captain Johnson sets up heated shelters that keep you warm and comfortable throughout the entire 4-hour experience. The gear is top-notch - we're talking about rods, reels, and tackle specifically chosen for targeting both sturgeon and crappie in these winter conditions. You'll fish from established spots where the captain has consistently found success, often in areas where the current creates natural feeding zones that attract both species. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility - groups can choose morning departures to catch the early bite or evening sessions when the fish often get more active as light fades. With space for up to 12 anglers, it's perfect for family outings or groups of friends, though the base price covers two people with additional guests at $50 each.

Ice Fishing Techniques & Setup

Ice fishing on the St. Croix requires a completely different approach than open-water angling, and that's where Captain Johnson's expertise really shines. The shelters are positioned over proven holes where electronics show fish movement and proper depth. For sturgeon, we use heavier tackle with circle hooks and natural baits that can handle these powerful fish. Crappie fishing involves lighter presentations with small jigs and live bait, often requiring a more finessed approach. The captain provides instruction on reading your electronics, feeling the subtle bites that happen in cold water, and proper hook-setting techniques for each species. Safety equipment and ice picks are standard, and the heated shelters mean you can actually enjoy the experience instead of just enduring it. The setup includes comfortable seating and enough space to move around, making it accessible for anglers who might be intimidated by traditional ice fishing conditions.

Top Catches This Season

Lake Sturgeon are the real stars of this show, and for good reason. These ancient fish can live over 100 years and reach impressive sizes, with specimens over 50 inches not uncommon in the St. Croix. They're bottom feeders with a prehistoric appearance that includes bony plates instead of scales and a shark-like tail. Winter is actually prime time for sturgeon fishing because they concentrate in deeper holes and become more predictable in their feeding patterns. When you hook one, expect a fight that can last 20 minutes or more - these fish are incredibly strong and will test your patience and technique. The St. Croix population is healthy and well-managed, making it one of the top destinations in the region for anglers seeking this bucket-list species. What makes catching sturgeon so special is their rarity and the fact that many anglers fish their entire lives without landing one.

Crappie fishing provides consistent action and fills the cooler with some of the best-eating fish in freshwater. These panfish school up in winter, often suspending in the water column near structure or drop-offs. St. Croix crappie typically run 10-14 inches, with occasional slabs pushing 16 inches that really get your attention. They're much more active feeders than sturgeon, providing regular bites throughout the trip that keep everyone engaged. The key is finding the right depth and presentation - sometimes they want a jig barely moving, other times a more aggressive jigging motion triggers strikes. Black and white crappie both inhabit these waters, and they're renowned for their sweet, flaky meat that makes them a customer favorite for the dinner table. Winter crappie fishing can be some of the most productive of the year once you locate a school.

Time to Book Your Spot

Captain Johnson's ice fishing trips book up fast, especially on weekends when families want to try something different together. The combination of heated comfort, expert guidance, and the chance to target two completely different species makes this a standout winter adventure. Groups larger than 12 can call to discuss custom arrangements, and the flexible scheduling means you can work around other winter activities. The $50 per person rate over the base two-person booking makes it affordable for larger groups who want to split the experience. Don't let another winter pass without trying ice fishing - the St. Croix offers some of the region's best opportunities, and having an experienced captain who knows exactly where to set up makes all the difference between a good day and a great one.