10 Best Ice Fishing Lures 2026 in the United States

The Northland Level-Head Predator Tube in Lumi Glo/Red Top is a soft plastic ice-fishing lure weighing 3/4 oz, designed to attract big freshwater predators like lake trout and pike. Its standout feature is the level-head design, which keeps the lure hanging horizontally for a natural swimming action that mimics a wounded baitfish — a key to enticing strikes under the ice. The lure comes rigged and ready to use, saving you time on setup, which is handy when fishing in cold conditions. The combination of a stout hook and an extra blood red sting’r hook improves your chances of landing bigger fish. The Lumi Glo (glow) and red top coloration is highly visible in murky or low-light conditions common during ice fishing, enhancing its appeal to fish.

At 3/4 oz, the lure has enough weight to be jigged effectively through the ice and maintain good movement without being too heavy. While the size and weight might be less ideal for anglers targeting smaller species, the lure suits those looking for a reliable, no-fuss option to catch sizable predators during ice fishing or vertical jigging from a boat. This product is especially beneficial for anglers who want a lifelike action without spending time rigging their own tubes, although having more color variety might help adapt to different water clarities or fish preferences.

The Strike King Tungsten Thunder Cricket is a well-crafted ice-fishing lure that stands out due to its compact tungsten head, which provides excellent castability, particularly in windy conditions. Weighing in at 0.38 ounces and sized at 3/8 oz, its dense construction allows for a heavier feel without increasing the size, making it suitable for those looking to attract fish with minimal resistance. The lure features a hand-tied skirt that adds an impressive wiggle and dance in the water, paired with a tight-vibrating blade that effectively draws fish to strike. This superior action can be particularly beneficial when fishing around brush and vegetation, as it can easily maneuver through obstacles and entice fish hiding in cover.

On the versatility front, the Tungsten Thunder Cricket can be utilized in various fishing techniques, whether you're covering shallow waters quickly or slow-rolling near deeper structures. The integrated trailer keeper is a noteworthy feature, ensuring that your soft-plastics stay in place during vigorous strikes, improving your chances of landing a catch.

While the lure excels in many areas, it may not be the best choice for every angler. Some users may find the compact size limiting for larger target species, particularly if they're accustomed to bulkier lures.

The Reaction Tackle Tungsten Ice Jigs in Wonder Glow Spots are designed to enhance your ice fishing experience. Featuring a 3mm size and unique tear shape, these jigs drop quickly through the water, making them ideal for ice fishing or targeting panfish year-round. The tungsten material ensures the jigs are smaller and more sensitive than their lead counterparts, allowing you to feel every subtle movement and bite, which is a significant advantage in the often delicate art of ice fishing.

The glowing UV light feature is particularly useful for attracting fish in low-light conditions, common in ice fishing scenarios. Additionally, the high-quality build, including strong hooks and durable, chip-resistant paint, makes these jigs a reliable choice for various target species like panfish, perch, trout, crappie, and walleye.

However, some users may find the 3mm size to be too small for larger fish, and the premium tungsten material could make these jigs more expensive than lead alternatives. These jigs' smaller size might also make them prone to being lost more easily, especially if not handled carefully. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Reaction Tackle Tungsten Ice Jigs offer professional-grade performance with their sensitivity, durability, and effective fish-attracting features, making them a solid option for ice fishing enthusiasts.