Ice Fishing Adventures with Ely Ice Fishing Company in MN
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate; participants should be comfortable standing or sitting on the ice for several hours and able to dress warmly.
Overview
Ely Ice Fishing Company delivers hands-on, guided ice fishing trips in northern Minnesota’s frozen lakes. With expert guides and full gear, they make winter fishing accessible and memorable.
Details
Ely, Minnesota, sits just on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a rugged expanse of forest and lakes that defines northern outdoor adventure. In winter, when thick ice seals the countless lakes, the scene transforms into a prime destination for ice fishing. Ely Ice Fishing Company specializes in transforming this raw, frozen landscape into a playground for both newcomers and seasoned anglers. Their professional guides and well-equipped trips offer an immersive way to engage with this unique outdoor pursuit.
Operating out of Ely, MN, the company offers guided ice fishing experiences across several nearby lakes, known for abundant walleye, northern pike, and crappie. The region’s glacial history carved clear cold-water lakes teeming with fish, making it a hotspot in winter months. Ely Ice Fishing Co. sets itself apart through personalized service and an emphasis on education. Whether a first-time ice fisherman or someone sharpening their skills, their guides—often named in reviews as Cam and Peter—are valued for patience, local knowledge, and ability to put clients on productive ice holes.
Trips frequently include heated, insulated huts that provide shelter from the biting cold, with full gear supplied to lighten the load. Reviewers, echoing the friendly and professional approach, underscore the company’s commitment to safety and experience quality. Beyond catching fish, the guides share insights about the local ecosystem and conditions, enhancing guests’ connection to the frozen landscape.
The area’s crisp air, silent snow-covered forests, and expansive views across ice fields create a powerful backdrop. Beyond fishing, the broader Ely region is a hub for winter adventure, drawing visitors with snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. For anyone seeking an authentic ice fishing experience combined with knowledgeable guide support, Ely Ice Fishing Company is an essential stop to experience how northern Minnesota shapes winter sports. Their trips illustrate why Ely remains a go-to destination for embracing winter’s outdoor challenges and rewards.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for fluctuating temps
Multiple layers help you manage warmth inside huts and in the biting cold outside.
Wear traction aids on boots
Icy surfaces around your fishing spot can be slippery—microspikes or crampons improve safety.
Hydrate before and during your trip
Cold weather masks dehydration, so drink water regularly to stay alert and focused.
Listen closely to your guide's instructions
Safety on the ice depends on following local ice thickness and fishing protocols exactly.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Remote bays on Burntside Lake with rich fish populations
- Quiet forest trails near Kawishiwi River for winter snowshoeing
Wildlife
- Bald eagles hunting over frozen waters
- White-tailed deer crossing snowy forests
History
Ely’s lakes and rivers supported Ojibwe communities and later logging industries, shaping the region’s deep connection to water and wilderness.
Conservation
Local outfitters emphasize minimal impact practices to protect lake ecosystems and maintain fish populations for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Along Kawishiwi Trail lake shorelines
- From inside the fishing huts looking outward
- Near snow-laden pine groves adjacent to lakes
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Insulated, waterproof boots
Keeps feet dry and warm during hours on icy surfaces.
winter specific
Thermal base layers
Provides critical warmth when spending extended time outdoors.
winter specific
Windproof outer shell
Blocks chilling winds common on open ice fields.
winter specific
Sunglasses or goggles
Protects eyes from glare off the snow and ice.
winter specific