Billings Ice Fishing Adventure Guide

Is ice fishing in Montana on your bucket list? There's nothing like standing on a solid body of water to catch some eagerly biting fish when the world has frozen over for the season! People love ice fishing in Big Sky Country because it offers a chance to take in the stillness of nature. It's a great opportunity to sit with your thoughts or spend time chatting with friends or family with no distractions. Whether you're already a fan of fishing or you simply want to experience the thrill of ice fishing in the wild as part of a memorable wintertime vacation, this is a great item to add to your itinerary for an upcoming visit to Billings, Montana. Here's what you need to know about ice fishing near Billings.

Lake Elmo

This 64-acre reservoir in Yellowstone County is prized for its bounty of fish! Wintertime visitors are most likely to see abundant crappie and yellow perch fluttering just beneath the lake's iced-over surface. However, you could encounter around 10 different fish species here. This is a favorite spot of locals because the frozen surface of the water allows you to get to areas that are too hard to reach during the summer. The fish can truly keep coming once you "strike gold" with a spot!

Riverfront Park

Did you know that you can go ice fishing right inside Riverfront Park in Billings? This park on the banks of the Yellowstone River offers year-round recreation via walking paths and picnic areas. However, it's a small pond on the park's south side that's the place to be once Billings freezes over for the year! Lake Josephine is a pond that's known for its channel catfish, crappies, and bluegill. This easy-to-access fishing spot is located directly off the city's trail system.

Joel’s Pond

Found on Shiloh Crossing Boulevard in Billings, Joel's Pond is a 12-acre pond nestled within a 17-acre park. It is famed for its self-sustaining population of bass. Public fishing was only introduced here in 2017, so not everyone is aware that Joel's Pond offers some of the best ice fishing near Billings.

Preparing for Ice Fishing

While ice fishing near Billings is a fun and relaxing pastime, it's important not to be casual when preparing for a day on the ice. Montana's rugged climate and cold temperatures mean that things can go south quickly if you don't have the right gear.

What to Wear for Ice Fishing in Montana

Dress as though you'll be on the ice all day. You never know when you could unexpectedly be out later than planned. Layering is crucial when ice fishing. Consider wearing a moisture-wicking base layer of clothing. A thermal shirt, snowsuit, and jacket with a waterproof outer shell are also recommended. Wearing insulated boots is also important. Avoid allowing any skin to be exposed.

What to Bring Ice Fishing

Don't forget the auger! You'll need this to break the ice. Each hole drilled into the ice should be 6 to 10 inches in diameter. In addition, rods and lines that are slightly shorter than normal are necessary to help you notice every bit. You will also need to bring along bait and tackle. Many people who are experienced with ice fishing recommend jigs. You should also bring along life jackets for everyone in the crew to provide protection in the event that the ice shatters or someone slips through the hole you create for fishing.

Enjoy a Magical Winter Getaway in Billings

Most people who come to Billings for ice fishing like to get on the ice early in the morning. Taking advantage of the cold, dark hours of early dawn can help you to fit in more fishing time. Of course, an early day on the ice means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy attractions around Billings for the rest of the day. Consider fitting in time for a visit to Great Crow National Park to learn all about the history of the land.