Introduction

Choosing the best ice fishing lures can significantly impact your chances of a fruitful catch. With an array of options available, from jigs and spoons to live baits and soft plastics, each type has its own strengths and is suited to different conditions and target species. This guide aims to provide you with insights into some of the top ice fishing lures, helping you make informed decisions to enhance your ice fishing experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding the characteristics and applications of various lures will undoubtedly elevate your game and increase your chances of reeling in those prized catches.

Best Ice Fishing Lures

Ice Fishing Jigs

When it comes to ice fishing, jigs are often considered essential. Their versatility makes them suitable for various species, including panfish like perch and bluegill, as well as larger game fish such as walleye and pike. Jigs are versatile and can mimic a variety of prey, making them a staple in any ice angler's tackle box. Their erratic movements create an enticing action underwater. 

Types of Jigs

Tungsten Jigs: Known for their compact size and rapid fall rate, tungsten jigs are perfect for getting deep quickly and staying close to the bottom where fish are likely to be hiding.
Lead Jigs: These are more affordable and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. They work well for a variety of applications but may not sink as quickly as tungsten jigs.
Feathered Jigs: Adding feathers or other soft materials can create additional attraction by mimicking small baitfish or insects.

Dr.Fish 30pcs Big Eye Jig Heads 1/32oz-1/8oz(with Box)

No matter what level of angler you are, Dr.Fish big eye jig heads are suitable for you. Great for fishing crappie, trout, panfish, bluegill, white bass, etc.

• High-quality carbon steel, sharp hook tip
• Lifelike 3D eyes, particularly attractive in water. Jig head with bright color, it is easier to be attacked by fish.
• Keep your bait in the correct position firmly with built-in bait holder

Spoons

Spoons are another staple in the ice fishing community. Their wobbling action and flashy appearance can trigger strikes from curious fish. 

Northland Buckshot Rattle Spoon

The Northland Buckshot Rattle Spoon is a must-have lure for any ice angler's tackle box. Its combination of rattle, flash, and durability makes it a versatile and effective tool for targeting a variety of fish species.

•  Distinct rattling sound mimics the sounds of distressed baitfish, which can trigger predatory instincts in fish such as walleye, pike, and lake trout.
• Tip with a minnow head, waxworms or IMPULSE Minnow Head and Perch Eye.
• Constructed from high-quality materials, the Buckshot Rattle Spoon is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of ice fishing.

VMC Rattle Spoon

The VMC Rattle Spoon is a highly acclaimed fishing lure that has earned a stellar reputation among anglers for its versatility and effectiveness. Designed to mimic the sound and appearance of a fleeing baitfish, this spoon is a must-have in any serious fisherman's tackle box.

• Made with an un-matched resonance chamber made of brass and multiple beads gives anglers the edge over other rattling spoons on the market.
• The shortened chamber allows the fisherman to impede sound with minimal jigging distance while maintaining action to the lure.
• Couple this with a wide variety of colors in UV, natural baitfish, holographic finishes and Ultra Glow pigments lasting up to 15 minutes

Live Baits

While artificial lures are highly effective, nothing beats the natural appeal of live bait. Common live baits include minnows, wax worms, and maggots.
Live bait emits scents and movements that are hard for fish to resist. It can be used with almost any type of hook or lure setup. Many bait shops stock a variety of live bait throughout the ice fishing season.

Tips for Using Live Bait:

Keep your live bait fresh and alive as long as possible to maintain its attractiveness to fish.

Soft Plastic Fishing Lures

Ice fishing with soft plastic lures can be an incredibly effective and versatile approach. Soft plastics are favored for their flexibility, ease of use, and ability to mimic a wide range of prey. Soft plastic lures have gained popularity in recent years due to their lifelike appearance and flexibility. Here are some popular soft lure options:
Plastic Worms: Mimicking real worms, these lures are great for targeting panfish and other bottom-dwellers.
Crankbaits: Designed to dive and wobble, crankbaits can reach different depths depending on their design and how they are worked.
Grubs and Tubes: These versatile baits can be rigged in various ways to imitate different prey items.

Berkley PowerBait Minnow

Berkley's minnow baits are crafted to imitate small baitfish, a primary food source for many predatory fish. These lures feature realistic details and a lifelike swimming action that can entice species like trout, pike, and bass even in the cold waters under the ice.

• Infused with special scents that attract fish. The scent is released slowly into the water, creating a trail that draws fish towards the lure.
• Mimic the natural movement of prey. Whether it's the undulating motion of a worm or the erratic darting of a minnow, these movements trigger predatory instincts in fish.
• Made from high-quality materials, Berkley lures are built to withstand the harsh conditions of ice fishing.
• With a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors available, Berkley lures can be matched to the local forage and the specific preferences of the fish you're targeting.

Conclusion

Selecting the best ice fishing lures depends on several factors, including the species you're targeting, the water conditions, and your personal fishing style. While jigs, spoons, live bait, soft plastics, and specialty lures each have their own merits, having a diverse selection can help you adapt to changing conditions and increase your chances of landing that trophy catch.