Ice Fishing FAQ
Will I be cold?
At Big Ed’s Fishing, comfort is a priority. We love the sport of ice fishing and want to share with you the best the sport has to offer. We know that you will not enjoy it if you are freezing cold. With that in mind, we have invested in the best portable shelters available and are able to heat them, in even the coldest of weather. We provide every group the option to fish in a heated shelter, however, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Dillon Colorado are fortunate to receive on average 245 sunny days per year. On these days, it is great to get out of the shelter and enjoy the Colorado sunshine and the beautiful mountain vistas, knowing that a warming hut is always nearby. Our shelters take about 3 minutes to set up and can be done on the fly. If we do not have one set up, and you would like one, please just ask, we are always more than happy to do so!
How far will we have to walk?
On a typical Lake Dillon ice fishing trip, you will meet your guide near where we a fishing and we will have around a 200 to 500 yard walk that will include a short hill. The ice surface tends to be more snow covered than icy. If mobility is a concern, please let us know, we have some great options with very minimal walking and no hills.
On a Stagecoach State Park trip, we are able to utilize motorized transport and can pick you up and drop you off at the door of your car.
How should I dress for Ice Fishing?
We have written a blog post regarding this titled How to Dress for Ice Fishing Success, for a detailed answer please visit our blog post HERE. In short, the same clothes you wear skiing work great ice fishing. Snow boots are HIGHLY recommended especially in the spring and on warm days. Sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen, hats, and gloves are strongly recommended.
What should I bring?
Big Ed’s provides everything needed for fishing (Rod’s, Reels, Tackle, Bait, Shelter, Etc…), except for your valid Colorado Fishing License, available at Colorado Parks & Wildlife – Buy Fishing Licenses (state.co.us). We encourage you to bring snacks and drinks, you are welcome to bring adult drinks of your choosing.
How many fish will I catch?
It is really hard to predict. Some days we catch a lot and some days we struggle for a few; however, it is very rare when a group does not catch fish. This has happened and it is only fair to acknowledge that it probably will happen again. While we don’t guarantee that you will catch a certain number of fish, we absolutely guarantee that your guide will do everything in their power to ensure that you do!
Can I keep what I catch?
Absolutely, and we’ll even clean them for you, we strictly follow the State of Colorado limits and size requirements. Please note all Arctic Char and Brown Trout are catch and release on Lake Dillon. The only thing we ask is to honor the resource and eat what you keep.
When is the best time to fish?
Every chance you get!!! It is impossible to guess the best time of the day, week, year. It changes daily, sometimes the morning out-produces the evening and vice versa.
How much should I tip my Guide?
While nothing is ever expected and everything is appreciated, keep in mind that our guides are part of the service industry and this is a way for our customers to have some control of the service they receive. Just like at restaurants 15-20% is customary for good service. As often traveling anglers ourselves, utilizing guides, this article provides a great framework.
https://www.orvis.com/s/gratuity-guidelines-for-fishing-guides-and-staff/14926
What if I need to cancel my reservation?
We understand that issues can happen that prevent you from making your trip. We appreciate as much notice as possible. Cancellations made prior to 5 days of your trip, can be made by calling 970-389-1720. A $5.00 service fee will be charged and the remainder of your deposit will be returned. Cancellations made within 5 days of your trip date, or you do not show for your trip, the deposit amount will be forfeited. If we have to cancel your trip due to weather, such as a blizzard with high winds that exceed the ratings of our shelters and a mutually acceptable date is unavailable, a full refund will be issued. With all this being said, we are not in the business taking money without taking people fishing, if you have an issue pop up, let us know, if we can we will try to reschedule.
