The Best Ice Fishing Tip-Ups
We compared the best tip-ups to find the ones that signal bites clearly, don't freeze in the hole and stand up to big fish.
Our #1 pick
Frabill
Best overall
$38.99
A tip-up lets you cover several holes without watching them: the flag goes up, the bite is signalled, and you run over. Ideal for northern pike and walleye.
A classic flag tip-up, an insulated model that covers the hole to keep it from freezing, or a lighted version for night fishing: the choice depends on how harsh the winter is and on your lake's regulations. We look at trigger reliability and freeze resistance.
We ice fish Quebec lakes every winter. This ranking is based on actual specifications (mechanism, insulation, materials) and our experience.
Our picks at a glance
Frabill
Frabill Pro Thermal Original Tip-Up
An insulated tip-up that covers a 10-inch hole: the flag signals every bite and the cover keeps the hole from freezing. The essential for fishing several holes.
Pros
- Reliable trigger
- Covers and insulates the hole
- Sturdy
Cons
- Pricier than a wooden tip-up
Manufacturer description
- •The Original Insulated Tip-Up
- •Frabill Pro Thermal Original Tip-Up
- •The Original Insulated Tip-Up
- •Covers 10" hole
Specifications
- Color
- Multi
- Size
- One Size
- Quantity
- 4
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
HT Enterprise
HT Enterprise Polar Tip-Up with 200 Yard Spool
Its base covers the hole to block cold and light: less ice to clear and more active fish.
Pros
- Keeps the hole from freezing
- Blocks the light
- Well designed
Cons
- Bulkier
Manufacturer description
- •HT Polar PTU-20, TIP UP Ice Fishing 200-Feet
Specifications
- Color
- Multi
- Size
- One Size
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.