Full Day Sturgeon and Crappie Ice Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Fullday ice fishing targeting Lake Sturgeon and WalleyeEighthour guided adventure with heated setup and quality gearAccommodates up to 12 guests with experienced Captain Jamison
Captain Jamison Johnson knows the St. Croix River like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious fish this winter. This isn't your typical weekend ice fishing trip - we're talking an 8-hour adventure targeting two of the most sought-after species in these waters: massive Lake Sturgeon and tasty Walleye. You'll launch from either Lakeside Park in Bayport or the St. Croix crossing public launch, both offering easy access to prime fishing spots. With heated shelters and all the gear you need, this trip keeps you comfortable while you chase trophy fish all day long.
Your day starts early with Captain Jamison setting up the operation on proven spots along the St. Croix. This isn't a rush job - with 8 full hours, there's plenty of time to drill multiple holes, set up tip-ups, and really work the water properly. The heated setup means you can focus on fishing instead of fighting the cold, and that makes all the difference when you're putting in a full day. Captain Jamison brings groups of up to 12 anglers regularly, though this particular trip accommodates 2 guests for a more personalized experience. The captain handles all the logistics - from finding active fish to keeping your lines in the water - so you can concentrate on the action. Groups larger than 12 can be accommodated with a quick phone call to work out the details.
Winter fishing on the St. Croix requires the right approach, and Captain Jamison has it dialed in. You'll be working with quality rods and reels suited for both jigging and tip-up fishing, depending on what the fish are telling us that day. The heated shelter setup keeps everyone comfortable during those long waits between bites - and trust me, when you're targeting sturgeon, patience pays off big time. We drill holes strategically across different depths and structures, from shallow flats where crappie might be schooled up to deeper channels where the big sturgeon cruise. The captain provides all terminal tackle, including the heavy-duty rigs needed for sturgeon and the lighter setups perfect for walleye. You'll learn how to read your electronics, work different depths, and adjust your presentation based on what's happening below the ice.
Lake Sturgeon are the real prize here, and the St. Croix holds some absolute monsters. These prehistoric fish can live over 100 years and grow massive - we're talking fish that can easily hit 4-5 feet long and weigh 30-50 pounds or more. Winter is actually prime time for sturgeon because they're more predictable in their movements, often holding in deeper holes and channels where Captain Jamison knows to find them. The fight is legendary - imagine hooking into what feels like a submarine that doesn't want to come up. Sturgeon are bottom feeders, so we'll be working nightcrawlers, minnows, and other natural baits right on the deck. The key is patience and heavy tackle, because when one grabs your bait, you're in for the fight of your life.
Walleye fishing through the ice is a completely different game but equally rewarding. These fish are much more active in winter than people think, especially during low-light periods. The St. Croix walleye average 14-18 inches with plenty of keeper fish in the mix, and they're absolute table fare - probably the best eating fish in these waters. We'll work everything from jigging spoons tipped with minnows to live bait rigs, adjusting our approach based on the day's conditions. Walleye can be finicky, so Captain Jamison switches up presentations regularly until we find what triggers them. The bite often comes in waves, so when it turns on, you better be ready.
At $50 per person over the 2-person base rate, this full-day adventure offers serious value for the amount of time on the water and the quality of the experience. Captain Jamison's local knowledge and commitment to putting clients on fish has made this trip a customer favorite among ice fishing enthusiasts. The St. Croix doesn't give up its secrets easily, but with 8 hours and an experienced guide who knows every underwater structure and seasonal pattern, you're setting yourself up for success. Whether you're after the trophy experience of a lifetime sturgeon or a cooler full of walleye fillets, this trip delivers both excitement and results. The heated setup and quality gear mean you can fish comfortably all day, and the captain's expertise ensures you're always fishing the most productive water. Don't wait - prime winter fishing windows fill up fast, and the best ice fishing happens when conditions are just right.
This 32-foot party cruiser transforms into your perfect ice fishing basecamp on the St. Croix River. Captain Jamison Johnson's heated setup keeps you comfortable while targeting trophy sturgeon and walleye during those long winter days on the ice. The boat's generator powers AC and heat, plus you've got a full kitchen, bathroom, and shower onboard - basically everything you need for an all-day fishing adventure. Entertainment system keeps things lively between bites, while the fish finder helps locate those deep winter holes where the big ones hide. GPS and VHF radio ensure safe navigation, and the wireless trolling motor lets you move quietly without spooking fish. Perfect for families or groups wanting to experience serious ice fishing without roughing it in a basic shelter.
Acipenser FulvescensLake Sturgeon are living dinosaurs - we're talking fish that can live over 50 years and grow massive. Most we catch are 3-4 feet, but 6-footers over 100 pounds swim these waters. They're bottom feeders with no teeth, using four whiskers to find food in deep holes and rocky areas. Winter through ice is actually great for targeting them since they stay active in cold water. What draws anglers? Landing one is like hooking into a submarine - pure power and an ancient connection to these prehistoric survivors. The meat's excellent too, firm and clean-tasting. Key tip: bring heavy tackle and a big glob of nightcrawlers. Fish right on bottom near drop-offs and be patient - they take their time deciding to bite.
Sander VitreusWalleye are golden-colored fish with those distinctive glassy eyes that help them see in low light. Most run 2-4 pounds here on the St. Croix, though we see some nice 6-8 pounders. They're bottom huggers, hanging around rock piles, drop-offs, and deep holes during the day, then moving shallow to feed at dawn and dusk. Winter ice fishing is prime time - they get more aggressive in cold water. What makes them special? They fight smart, not just hard, and the meat is absolutely top-notch - flaky, mild, and perfect for a fish fry. My go-to tip: use a glow jig with a minnow head and work it slow along bottom structure. The bite is often subtle, so watch for that gentle tick on your rod tip.
St. Croix River