Saturday, Jan. 25 at 11 a.m. — Barnard —The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. invites anglers of all ages to participate in its free ice fishing day, a statewide event when fishing licenses are not required to fish on any waterbody open to ice fishing. To mark the occasion, an ice fishing festival will take place in Silver Lake State Park, at 20 State Park Beach Road, offering a day of fishing, skill-building, and winter fun.
The festival, free and open to all, provides an opportunity for beginners to try ice fishing without needing to purchase equipment or a fishing license. Vermont Fish & Wildlife staff and instructors from the Let’s Go Fishing program will be on hand to teach essential skills such as knot tying, baiting, and using specialized ice fishing gear like tip-ups. Safety on the ice will also be a key focus, along with discussions on fishing regulations and fish identification.
“The ice fishing festival typically draws 500 to 700 participants for a day of fishing, skill-building, and community,” said Education Specialist Corey Hart. “The annual event moves to different locations each winter, and we are excited to return to Silver Lake for 2025.”
Beyond fishing, the event offers additional winter activities, including ice skating, sledding, and snow fort building. A fish fry station will serve samples of locally caught fish, and Fish & Wildlife staff will be available to cook up participants’ catches. Hot cocoa will be provided to keep visitors warm throughout the day.
“Ice fishing is one of the most accessible forms of fishing and can be a great way to introduce people to how much fun fishing can be,” said Fish & Wildlife Interim Commissioner Andrea Shortsleeve. “This festival will demonstrate that ice fishing isn’t just about catching fish. It’s also a great way to spend time outdoors with friends and family.”
Fishing equipment will be available to borrow, though participants are welcome to bring their own. Dressing appropriately for the weather is recommended, and ice cleats are strongly encouraged.
Participants can register in advance at the Ice Fishing Festival 2025 event page or upon arrival. Those who register ahead of time will be able to get on the ice faster.
For more information, visit: vtfishandwildlife.com.
