A popular sport in areas with frosty winters, check out our favorite spots for ice fishing
During the winter, West Yellowstone has so many unique activities to experience – from sled dog tours, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and even ice fishing! This unique experience is available in multiple spots in West Yellowstone, and each location offers a variety of species to make catching a fresh dinner a breeze. If you’re looking to unlock your inner chef, these delicious recipes like grilled trout with lemon butter or Mediterranean-baked white fish might help you feel inspired to get out there on the ice.
If you’ve never been ice fishing before, a few essentials to get started include rods and reels best suited for the ice, an ice auger, rod blanks, tackle, and bait and lures to attract your preferred catch. Not only is equipment important, but doing the proper research on clothing and even shanties will help keep you safe and warm on your fishing expedition. Of course, our local shops are available to help you stock up on gear and get tips from some of our professionals, so you can worry more about having fun and less about the technicalities.
For those with a competitive side, you can catch the Hebgen Lake Ice Fishing Tournament coming up on Sunday, February 27th! Even if you’re unable to make it in February, our pros suggest Hebgen Lake for anyone looking for some great brown and rainbow trout fishing. Its nonstrenuous hike and beautiful scenery that surrounds the lake make it perfect for beginners and anyone looking to spend a nice winter day outdoors. If you’re looking to enter an ice fishing paradise this place is right for you!
In addition to Hebgen Lake, you can try out Ennis Lake, which is right up 287, just past Ennis. Here you’ll find more great brown and rainbow fish and some mountain white fish! If you’re looking for some alone time with nature, Quake Lake is another spot up 287. Also known as Earthquake Lake, this spot was the result of an earthquake that measured 7.3 on the Richter scale and altered the landscape to create the lake. West Yellowstone is also known as the heart of fly fishing, making it home to multiple blue ribbon trout streams that offer some of the best fly fishing experiences in the country. We are happy to help make your trips memorable. If you’re interested, we offer guided tours, equipment, or any general advice at our local shops!
No matter what you’re trying to catch, be sure to obtain the correct permits and licenses when fishing in the area.