❄️ Northern Michigan Ice Fishing Trips | Guided Ice Fishing Adventures
Experience the thrill of winter fishing with guided ice fishing trips in Northern Michigan. Fish With Jim Outfitters offers fun, comfortable, and productive ice fishing adventures for families, beginners, and experienced anglers alike. If you're visiting Northern Michigan—especially around Traverse City—ice fishing is one of the most unique and memorable outdoor experiences you can have.
🧊 Why Try Ice Fishing in Northern Michigan?
Ice fishing is a true Michigan tradition and one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors during winter. Northern Michigan’s frozen inland lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities in a peaceful, scenic setting. With Captain Jim’s local knowledge and proven techniques, you’ll stay on fish while enjoying a safe and comfortable day on the ice.
🐟 What Can You Catch Ice Fishing?
Our Northern Michigan ice fishing trips target a variety of species depending on conditions, including:
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Yellow perch
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Brown Trout
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Splake
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Cisco (one of our best trips!)
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Lake Trout
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Burbout (one of our best trips!)
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Other seasonal fish
With the right setup and guidance, you can expect steady action and a fun, hands-on fishing experience.
🎣 Fully Guided Ice Fishing Trips (Best Option)
Our fully guided trips are designed to make your day easy, comfortable, and productive—perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free experience.
What’s Included:
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Warm shelters with propane heaters
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Transportation on the ice
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Fish-finders
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A variety of rods, tackle, and bait
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Expert local knowledge and guidance
All you have to do is show up and enjoy the experience—we handle the rest.
🧭 Follow-Out Ice Fishing Trips
Already have your own gear? Our follow-out trips are a great option for experienced anglers who want guidance while using their own setup.
What’s Included:
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Same expert guidance and attention from our guides
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You bring and set up your own equipment
Additional Options:
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Transportation available for $50 per shanty
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Marcum LX-7 fish finders available to rent for $30 per day
📍 Where We Fish in Northern Michigan
Come ice fishing in the breathtaking inland lakes of Northwest Lower Michigan with Fish With Jim Outfitters. We fish a variety of productive lakes depending on conditions, including:
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Bear Lake (Kalkaska Area)
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Lake Charlevoix
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Thumb Lake
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Torch Lake
Each location offers unique opportunities and beautiful winter scenery.
🚜 Transportation on the Ice
Fishing with the Fish With Jim Outfitters Taiga Dog is an exciting way to explore the ice. This machine is designed to pull heavy loads over snow and ice while remaining lightweight with a large footprint, making it ideal for early ice conditions and accessing productive fishing areas safely and efficiently.
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for Families, Beginners & Groups
Ice fishing is a great option for:
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Families looking for a fun winter activity
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First-time anglers
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Groups of friends
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Bachelor parties and special events
No experience is needed—Captain Jim will guide you every step of the way.
Rates
Fully Guided Trips
1/2 Day $199 - Per Fisherman for 4 Hours
Full Day $249 - Per Fisherman for 7 hours
We have a capacity of up to 10 fully guided fishermen per day.
Follow-Out Trips
$139 - Per Fisherman
❓ Northern Michigan Ice Fishing FAQs
Is ice fishing cold or uncomfortable?
We provide warm shelters and heaters to keep you comfortable throughout your trip.
Do I need experience?
No—our trips are beginner-friendly and fully guided.
What should I bring?
Dress warm (layers recommended), warm waterproof boots are required (Muck boots are recommended) and bring snacks and drinks—we provide the fishing gear.
Trip Details
Meeting Place: We access our lakes in many places, please contact us for a meeting location.
License: Purchase a Michigan Fishing License for $10 daily. Click Here
Tackle: All tackle is provided at no extra cost.
Keeping Fish: You are welcome to keep the fish you catch on fishing outings with Fish With Jim Outfitters. Size limits and possession limits are set by the MDNR.
Fish Cleaning: Winter fish cleaning is not available.
What to Bring: To make your trip enjoyable, bring drinks, snacks, warm clothes, boots, gloves, hat, polarized sunglasses, a camera, and a cooler for your catch.
Gratuity: Please remember your guides before parting ways. A normal tip is 15% of the total value of your trip.
Places To Stay: There are many quality places to stay in the Traverse City Area. Please contact us, and we can assist you in finding a place to stay.