Henry's Lake freezes over, and it's time to catch a big one. But be warned: the ice is thin and treacherous. Here's what you need to know to brave the frozen waters.
The Ice Situation:
See Also
Craving Connection? Camping's Surprising Secret for Building Community!Carson Area Fishing Report: Big Horn Sheep, Huge Rainbow Trout & Winter bite insightsShould Minnesota Walleye Limits Change? What a 4-Fish Limit Could Mean for AnglersYETI Roadie 24: The Ultimate Upgrade for Your Outdoor AdventuresAs of December 6, 2025, Henry's Lake is covered in ice, but it's not without its dangers. The ice is only about seven inches thick in some areas, and the depth of the water varies from three to 12 feet. This makes for exciting fishing, but also requires caution.
Fishing Tips and Tricks:
- Gaffs are essential: The ice can be unforgiving, and larger fish are already being caught. Invest in a gaff to secure your catch.
- Line weight matters: Wednesday's experience highlights the importance of using the right line weight. Mike, Alton, and the author all had issues with too light lines, resulting in broken fish lines.
- Bait choices: White or green jigs tipped with sucker meat or nightcrawlers are proven baits. Dead-sticking nightcrawlers on the bottom also worked well.
- Experiment with combinations: Experienced ice fishermen often have their secret bait combinations. Try minnows, bullheads, or white jigs tipped with shrimp or mealworms if you're feeling adventurous.
Location-Specific Fishing:
- Goose Bay: Accessible by driving into the lake's outlet, this area offers seven-inch ice and fishing in three to 12 feet of water.
- Cliffs on the south side: Four inches of ice here have yielded some success.
- Frome County Boat Dock: Only three inches of ice and limited fishing below five feet depth.
- Staley Springs: A popular spot with several cracks in the ice, but still productive.
- North side: The ice broke up on Tuesday but reformed, making it less accessible.
- Henry's Lake State Park: Thin ice limits access, but some bites are possible in five feet of water.
Safety First:
- Thin ice warning: The recent snowfall makes the ice very thin and dangerous for machinery. Be cautious if you venture out.
- Pressure ridges: Keep an eye out for pressure ridges, which may be hidden under the snow. They can be treacherous.
- Other reservoirs: Island Park Reservoir and Ririe Reservoir are not yet frozen over, so fishing there will take a while.
Remember, ice fishing is an exciting adventure, but safety should always be your top priority. Be prepared, use the right equipment, and stay informed about the ever-changing ice conditions.
