Official Site of The State of New Jersey
New Jersey winters can be variable in terms of weather and the formation of safe ice, but when the winter weather cooperates, ice fishing can be phenomenal. Many popular game fish, including Sunfish, Crappie, Yellow Perch, Largemouth Bass and Pickerel, are active and great to target when ice fishing. Northern Pike, Muskellunge and Walleye are also regularly taken – in fact, the state record Muskellunge was taken through the ice!
Ice Fishing Regulations
- In New Jersey anglers may use no more than five devices, i.e. a combination of tip-ups and/or jigging rods.
- All devices not hand-held must bear the name and address of the user and can’t be left unattended.
- For more information, consult the Freshwater Fishing Digest.
Safety
Many anglers are wary of ice fishing because of cold weather conditions and the safety concerns of being out on a frozen pond or lake. Ice fishing is a very safe sport if safety practices are followed. Having the proper equipment is essential to staying safe on the ice.
Essential Safety Gear
| Spud bar | To test ice thickness and quality |
| Ice picks | Worn around your neck, used to grip the ice to pull yourself out, should you fall through the ice |
| Ice spikes | Worn on boots for traction |
| Throw bag | Rescue rope that can be thrown to someone who has fallen through the ice |
| Float plan | Tell someone where you’re going and what time you expect to return |
In addition to having the proper safety gear, following ice thickness safety guidelines is important. Keep in mind, conditions are always changing, and ice does not freeze uniformly. It is recommended to continually check ice thickness with a spud bar when heading out on the ice. Follow the ice thickness safety guidelines below.
Ice Thickness Safety Guidelines
| 2” or less – STAY OFF! |
| 4” of ice – Supports one individual walking or ice fishing |
| 5” of ice – Supports small groups spread out |
Equipment
- Ice auger (manual, gas or battery powered)
- Ice spoon/skimmer to keep the hole clean
- Jigging rod
- Tip-ups (labeled with name and address)
- Sounder (weighted clip that helps you find bottom and set tip-up at desired depth)
- Clippers/pliers
- Optional: Sled (carrying equipment on and off the ice)
- Optional: Ice shelter
- Optional: Electronic fish finder
Line, Lures, and Bait
- Ice line – 50 yards of 20# backing for tip-ups
- 4# Micro ice line for jig rods
- 25# Line or stronger weight line for Northern Pike or use a metal leader.
- 6# – 8# Fluorocarbon line is best for Rainbow Trout, Bass and Perch.
- Sinker weights 1/8 oz and 1/4 oz
- Swivels
- Lures/spoons for the jigging rod
- #8 bait hooks
- #6 through #14 treble hooks
- Bait for jigging (wax worms, mousies or spikes)
- Bait bucket, mini net and live bait (shiners or fathead minnows)
- Battery powered bubbler (keeps bait alive)
