Fall and Winter Fishing Around Lake Winnipesaukee Ice Fishing Lake Winni Fishing Through the Chill: Fall & Winter Angling Around Lake Winnipesaukee As the leaves turn gold and the first frost glimmers across quiet bays, the Lakes Region enters a new—but no less magical—season for anglers. While summer might draw the largest crowds to our waters, fall and winter bring a quieter, more contemplative side of fishing, with fresh challenges, stark beauty, and rewarding rewards. Whether you cast from a pontoon in October or set up a bob house on the ice in February, here’s how to make the most of cold-weather fishing around Lake Winnipesaukee and the nearby lakes. Why Fish in Fall & Winter? 1. Cooler waters, active fish As water temperature drops, many fish species become more active in mid-depths, moving nearer to structure or transitions. For species like smallmouth and largemouth bass, late fall is prime time to hit drop-offs, boulder fields, or submerged structure.On big lakes (like Winnipesaukee), species such as landlocked salmon, lake trout, and white perch remain reachable through the ice once safe conditions allow. (Guides on Winnipesaukee regularly target lake trout and white perch in winter.) 2. Less pressure, more solitude Once summer’s crowds fade, many lakes become serene. Anglers can access remote coves or stretch line without competing with dozens of boats. 3. Tournaments and traditions Lake Winnipesaukee hosts two prominent open water fishing derbies each year, offering generous prizes and celebrating the region’s angling culture. lakewinnipesaukee.net+1On the hard water side, the Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby is a long-standing winter tradition (for example, the 47th annual derby is slated for February 7–8, 2026). icefishingnh.comThese events create great community energy, but many anglers also enjoy solitary days on the ice or quiet boats in fall. Target Lakes & Hot Spots While Lake Winnipesaukee is the region’s marquee body, many surrounding lakes and ponds also shine in fall/winter: Lake Winnipesaukee — its size and depth support cold-water species like lake trout, landlocked salmon, and white perch. Guided ice fishing is available. Nearby smaller lakes and ponds — as soon as ice is safe, many support warmwater species (perch, pickerel, bass) through the ice. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department+1 Tributary or connecting ponds — ideal in fall when fish may stage before moving into main lake basins. While Lake Winnipesaukee remains the crown jewel for both open-water and ice fishing, several nearby lakes and ponds offer great cold-season opportunities: Lake Winnipesaukee: Deep water, diverse species, and plenty of access points for both boats and ice anglers. Squam Lake & Little Squam: Known for lake trout, whitefish, and yellow perch. Newfound Lake: Clear, cold water supports trophy trout fishing. Waukewan & Winnisquam Lakes: Excellent for panfish, bass, and pickerel in early winter. As always, check local ice conditions before venturing out — early-season ice can vary widely from bay to bay. If you want, I can identify a map of ideal lakes around Winnipesaukee with hotspots to fish in fall & winter for your readers. Transitioning from Fall to Ice — What You Need to Know Launching & Boating in Cold Weather Pre-winter prep: Before cold sets in, check and winterize motors, battery systems, fuel lines, and electronics. Ensure bilge pumps (or live wells) won’t freeze up. Warm layers & gear: Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, waterproof outer shells, insulated gloves, and sturdy boots. Bring extra gloves or socks. Ice transition caution: Watch for “slush ice” near shore or warming bays. Use sounders or sonar to watch bottom as you approach shallower water. Reduce weight & speed slowly: As water densifies, drag increases. Use conservative throttle changes. Avoid sudden planing in cold water to reduce gear stress. Safe docking & tie-offs: Ice shards or frozen surfaces around docks may be fragile. Use fenders, avoid scraping the hull or prop against unseen ice. Making Holes in the Ice & Setting Up Bob Houses When is it safe?The general rule of thumb is 4–6 inches of clear, solid ice can support a person on foot; 8–10 inches is safer for a snowmobile or light ATV. Visit NHHowever, ice thickness is rarely uniform. Always test (augur, ice chisel) in multiple spots starting from shore outward. Local conditions, currents, springs, or underwater features can weaken ice unpredictably. Drilling holesUse a gas or electric auger (or manual spud bar in shallow spots). Holes are often cut 6–10 inches in diameter. Keep a hand auger as backup (in case your power auger fails).Place holes near structure, depth changes, or known fish paths.Clear all snow/ice shavings from around the hole to prevent slipping or refreezing obstructions. Bob houses (ice shanties)These little shelters range from simple sled-mounted shacks to sophisticated cabins with heaters, electronics, and comforts. The shelter protects you from wind, gives a stable platform to fish, and helps retain warmth.Many anglers build in features like built-in hole covers, vents, light ports, insulation, and quick exits.Be careful: shelter heat (if uncontrolled) can melt ice beneath, so use safe heaters or place insulation boards under high heat sources. Leave no traceKeep the lake pristine. Pack out all trash, line wrappers, spent bait containers, old tip-up parts — anything you bring in should leave with you. (This is not only respectful, it helps sustain fish habitat for future seasons.) NH LAKES Safety Tips for Cold-Weather Angling Always fish with a partner (if possible). If heading out solo, tell someone your route, time out/in, and check in. Carry ice picks / ice claws — in the event you fall through ice, these help you climb out. Bring rope & throw bag — an adjustable rope (50 ft or more) and a floating throw bag can assist rescues. Wear a life jacket or floatation suit — it might seem overkill on ice, but if you break through, buoyancy helps keep you afloat. Avoid fishing in night or low visibility unless absolutely confident in ice and conditions. Monitor weather & ice reports — sudden thaws or rain can severely weaken ice. Check for “safety traffic patterns” — keep away from areas where snowmobiles or heavy vehicles regularly travel unless you’re sure the ice supports heavier loads. Strategy, Tactics & Species Notes Depth & structure — fish often hold over drop-offs, ledges, rock piles, sunken structure, or weed edges. Jigs & tip-ups — use light jigs for bass/perch; for deeper species, lower heavier jigs or spoons. Tip-ups work well for species like white perch or trout, letting you tend multiple holes. Vary presentation — small twitches, pauses, subtle changes in depth all help coax bites when fish slow. Watch the light — mornings and late afternoons often trigger more aggressive feeding. Respect seasons & regulations — in New Hampshire, many species can be targeted by ice fishing only January 1 – March 31 for lake trout or salmon in designated waters. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department+2eRegulations+2Always check the NH Freshwater Fishing Digest for bag limits, size limits, and species rules. Why It’s Worth It There’s something deeply pure about standing on a frozen lake at dawn, the world hushed except for the soft tick of a tip-up flag, breathing cold air, wrapped against the elements. When a strike registers, the tug through the hole feels immediate and intimate. Winter fishing is a slower sport—less about speed and more about patience, observation, and finesse. And when you land a trout, perch, or salmon in those quiet hours, the reward feels profound. Add in the community of derbies, the camaraderie of setting up shacks on the ice, and the seasonal beauty around Winnipesaukee — it becomes more than a hobby; it becomes tradition.
