Ice fishing is picking up for Knox County anglers as winter grips Ohio, but caution is critical.
The season generally runs from late December through early March, with January and February offering the most reliable ice.
A recent deep freeze has firmed conditions, though heavy snow and a late-February thaw could quickly compromise safety.
According to the 30-day forecast, warming temperatures by mid-February are expected to signal the gradual end of the ice fishing season.
Ohio offers numerous accessible ice-fishing locations.
As of late January, several ice-fishing destinations remain within easy reach of Knox County anglers, including Alum Creek State Park near Delaware, just over 30 miles away; Buckeye Lake State Park in Millersport, around 35 miles away; Deer Creek Wildlife Area near Mount Sterling, roughly 50 miles away; and Indian Lake in Lakeview, approximately 75 miles away.
"Ice fishing happening now in front of Lakeside Pro Bass at Indian Lake Ohio," Lakeside Pro Bass Shop posted on Facebook on Jan. 23.
A haul of fish caught on the ice at Indian Lake shows the rewards
of ice fishing. (Facebook / Lakeside Pro Bass Shop)
Yellow perch, bluegill, walleye and crappie continue to be the primary target species during the hard-water season, with fishing activity often peaking around new and full moon phases.
Basic gear includes an auger, rod, bait, ice scooper and bucket, with more advanced options like shanties or sonar available as experience grows.
Regulations on size and possession limits are important to follow.
The ODNR advocates safety remaining the central concern for anglers heading onto the ice.
“No ICE is safe ICE!” ODNR reports on its website. “Regardless of how the ice looks, always proceed with caution since there are always thin spots on lakes and ponds. But, as far as which ice is better, clear ice is better than cloudy ice. It is very intimidating if you step out onto a lake or pond and can see clearly to the bottom. But with the way ice forms, the clearer it is, the fewer impurities and irregularities is has. So, inch for inch, clear ice is stronger since it is purer.”
Anglers should fish near others when possible, dress warmly in layers, wear life jackets or flotation suits and carry safety gear such as ice picks. Checking recent ice reports or stopping by a local bait shop before heading out is strongly recommended. Leaving a float plan with someone on shore and exercising conservative judgment are essential for staying safe.
All ice fishing must comply with ODNR regulations, and anglers must hold a valid Ohio fishing license.
Per the 2025–26 ODNR fishing regulation handbook, ice anglers are limited to 12-inch holes.
“Ice anglers may not use more than six tip-ups and three rods per person,” the handbook states. “All shelters and tip-ups must display the name and address or customer identification number of the owner or user.”
