A Memorable Early March Ice Fishing Tradition in Michigan with Family and Friends
- The Wilsons
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
Late February and Early March in Michigan brings a special kind of excitement for outdoor lovers, especially those who cherish ice fishing. It’s the perfect time to gather with family and friends, enjoy the crisp air, and create lasting memories on the frozen lakes. One tradition that stands out is a day spent ice fishing with cousins, sharing laughter, catching fish, and savoring simple pleasures like hot brats cooked over an open fire. This tradition is more than just a fun outing; it’s a way to connect generations and share the joy of nature and family.
Click on Shanty Picture for info on Shanty used.
Gathering Together on the Ice
The day begins early, with the whole family loading up gear and heading to the lake. Our cousins invite us every year; we are very thankful!
This year we had a 3 month old to take with us so into a sled pulled by my husband out on the lake we go.
Our shanty is huge... It’s a cozy spot that shelters us from the chilly wind while giving us plenty of room to move around and enjoy the day. The shanty feels like a second home, filled with the sounds of chatter, the clinking of fishing gear, and the occasional splash as someone pulls in a catch. The Mr Buddy heater makes you warm down to your toes.
Ice fishing in March has its own rhythm. The ice is still thick and safe, but the sun starts to warm the air just enough to make the experience enjoyable without the harsh cold of mid-winter. We drill holes in the ice, set up our lines, and settle in for a day of patient waiting and sudden excitement when a fish bites.
Catching Perch and Pike All Day
The main targets on our trip are perch and pike, two fish species that thrive in Michigan’s lakes. Perch are smaller but plentiful, offering quick action and tasty fillets. Pike are larger and more challenging to catch, adding a bit of thrill to the day. The kids love watching and feeling the tug when a fish takes the bait.
Catching fish all day keeps everyone engaged. We share tips on the best bait and techniques, celebrate each catch, and even teach the younger ones how to handle the fish carefully. It’s a hands-on lesson in patience, respect for nature, and the rewards of outdoor activity.
Cooking Hot Brats Over the Fire
One of the highlights of the day is the shore lunch. After hours on the ice, we head to a fire built right on the shore. The smell of sizzling brats cooking over the open flames fills the air, mixing with the fresh scent of pine and snow. There’s something magical about eating hot, simple food outdoors after a day of fishing.
The brats are a family favorite, easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. We gather around the fire, passing plates or if you are lucky someone will make a "hot run" to the shanty with a plate of
food.
It’s a moment of connection and celebration, a pause to enjoy the fruits of our labor and the beauty of the day.
A Tradition to Pass On
This ice fishing tradition is more than just catching fish and eating good food. It’s about passing on values and experiences to the next generation. We want our children to appreciate the outdoors, understand the importance of family, and learn how to enjoy nature responsibly.
Our mastiffs also benefit from the day. The fish we catch provide fresh, natural food for them, adding another layer of connection between our family and the environment. Watching the dogs happily enjoy their share reminds us that this tradition supports all members of our family, human and animal alike.
Tips for a Successful March Ice Fishing Day
If you’re thinking about starting your own ice fishing tradition, here are some practical tips based on our experience:
Choose a spacious shanty so everyone can stay warm and comfortable.
Bring plenty of bait and gear for perch and pike, as these species offer great action.
Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.
Build a fire on shore for cooking and warmth, and bring simple foods like brats that everyone enjoys.
Teach kids the basics of fishing and safety to keep them engaged and safe.
Respect the environment by cleaning up and following local fishing regulations.
When setting up the shanty, we bring along our Mr. Buddy Heater, foam yoga pads for the floor, extra gloves and hats for the kids since they always get wet, Hot Hands, buckets, and a big folding chair that doubles as a couch for tired family members, as well as snacks. Taking a family ice fishing can indeed be much more involved. We pack the minivan to the brim, bringing what feels like a week's worth of supplies, especially with a baby. This includes a diaper bag, a car seat that serves as both a ride for the car and a seat for the shanty, and sleds to transport people and supplies to the lake, including the heavy shanty.
We also bring blankets to ensure the kids and me, the mama, stay cozy. Even with all the preparation and planning involved, the memories we create are truly invaluable.
Our amazon list for successful seasons of ice fishing with the kiddos:
Remember to be patient and recognize that, despite the effort required for setting up and taking down, the memories formed are worth every moment.
What activities do you think would be harder with kids...but with a little effort you could enjoy?
Wilson Wonders
Comments