Ice fishing on Lake Hopatcong in Hopatcong State Park in Landing, NJ on Sunday, January 26, 2025Get Photo. 6 / 19. Ed Murray| For NJ Advance Media. Ice Fishing.

Sam Slobodzian holds the only catch of the day while Ice fishing on Lake Hopatcong in Hopatcong State Park in Landing, NJ on Sunday, January 26, 2025Get Photo. 2 / 19.

When the weather turns frigid and the wind begins to howl, it’s time for lake freeze-up and ice fishing. This pastime is made much more pleasurable when you can fish in comfort.

Ice Fishing For the first time in a few years the Knee Deep Club will hold its annual ice fishing contest on Lake Hopatcong. Things could change, but as of now, the contest is a go for Jan. 26.

Anglers fishing the lake also post reports – or requests for help. “This isn’t a little prairie pothole lake – it’s 18 miles across at the south basin,” Gergatz said.

This guide will help you learn about ice safety, fishing tactics, and the best gear available. Print Subscription-$35 for the Best Field & Stream Stories · Subscribe Today Gear ...

∎ Bremen Conservation Club: The club’s annual ice fishing derby on Lake of the Woods will run from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 25 (or Feb. 8 if it has to be postponed).

Choosing the Right Lake for Budget Ice Fishing. If you're on a budget, choose a small, shallow lake to fish. Then you won't need a snowmobile or ATV to drive great distances across the ice.