Walleyes, crappies, and pike dominate the spotlight, but lesser-known species like burbot, sturgeon, and whitefish provide some of the most exciting winter fishing experiences.
BURBOT: The Bottom-Dwelling Brawler
Known by many names—eelpout, lawyer, and lingcod—burbot are often dismissed by anglers as an unattractive nuisance. Yet, these bottom-dwelling freshwater cod can deliver thrilling battles and make for a surprisingly tasty meal. During the winter, burbot are opportunistic feeders found throughout the water column, eagerly pursuing bait.
Prime burbot action usually starts after dark. To maximize your odds, use brightly glowing lures with strong scent appeal. The Trout-N-Pout Spoon by Big Nasty Tackle is a reliable choice, designed to stir up the bottom and draw burbot from afar. For the best setup, pair a 36- to 38-inch heavy walleye rod with 20-pound braided line tied directly to your lure.
Top Locations: Leech Lake, Mille Lacs, Lake of the Woods, and smaller, deep lakes in Minnesota. Lake Superior and Lake Erie also have solid burbot populations.
CATFISH: An Unusual Winter Prize
Catfish are a summertime favorite for many, but winter ice fishing offers a unique challenge. These bottom-feeding giants often gather in deep lake basins or slow-moving river sections during colder months. Anglers who master their habits can enjoy some rewarding hard-water action.
A dead-stick approach tends to work best on tough days. Using a medium or medium-light rod with 6-pound monofilament and a spoon tipped with minnow pieces is an effective strategy. Catfish respond well to scent-heavy baits, so packing multiple minnows on the treble hook can help boost your success rate.
Top Locations: Rivers and lakes with catfish populations across Minnesota and other northern states. Always check ice safety, especially when fishing rivers.
STURGEON: Ice Fishing’s Heavyweight Champion
Although sturgeon fishing is commonly associated with open-water spring runs, targeting these massive fish through the ice is gaining popularity. Known for their size and strength, sturgeon put up an intense fight, making them an unforgettable catch.
Deep river holes and current seams are the best places to find sturgeon in winter. A heavy-duty setup is essential. Use a large ice reel with 40-pound braid and a robust ice rod. For bait, nightcrawlers or fathead minnows on a 2/0 J-hook with a half-ounce sinker are recommended. Be patient—sturgeon fishing often requires long waits, but the payoff is well worth it.
Top Locations: The Rainy and St. Croix Rivers in Minnesota, along with Wisconsin’s Winnebago system, are prime sturgeon fishing spots.
WHITEFISH & TULLIBEES: Hidden Gems of the Ice
Though they’re often overlooked, whitefish and tullibees (also known as ciscoes) are fun to catch and can be excellent eating when prepared correctly. These silvery fish inhabit deep lake basins, feeding on small insects and baitfish. Anglers who take the time to pursue them are often rewarded with non-stop action.
For a subtle approach, try using a small tungsten jig tipped with maggots. Alternatively, a spoon with a dropper setup can help draw fish in from a distance. Once fish appear on the flasher, be prepared to adjust your presentation, as both whitefish and tullibees are light biters that often require finesse tactics.
Top Locations: Deep, clear lakes in northern regions where whitefish and tullibees are common.
By targeting these lesser-known species, ice anglers can experience exciting battles, uncover new challenges, and even discover delicious meals from often-ignored fish. Whether it’s chasing burbot at night, hauling up a massive sturgeon, or enjoying the fast-paced action of whitefish, there’s always more to explore beneath the ice.
Image/Source: gameandfishmag
