Hey there ice fishers and welcome to my post where we will check out my 3 best ice fishing cameras to find our catches with this year. If you are into ice fishing, you definitely know that one challenge it gives us is determining if we are at the right fishing spot.
To overcome this difficulty, many anglers today include ice fishing cameras into their winter angling equipment to increase their success rate in landing prized fish amid frozen bodies of water. However, as usual there are quite a few options to choose from here so to help you out I have had a good look around and come up with three options below.
Let’s check them out.
My three recommended ice fishing cameras
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
| Â | Ice Fishing Camera | Price | Get it |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Eyoyo Portable LCD Underwater Fishing Camera | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | OKK Portable Ice Fishing Camera | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Aqua-Vu Underwater Viewing System | $$$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What are ice fishing cameras?
An ice fishing camera is a piece of modern equipment that allows you to see the environment beneath the ice to determine whether or not there are fish to catch. Typically, a fishing camera of a submersible type is directly connected to an external monitor on dry land, allowing you to obtain an image of what is happening beneath the ice.
Here are some easy steps in using ice fishing cameras:
- Once you have chosen your fishing spot, drill a hole. The opening should be large enough for the camera to fit through.
- Turn on the screen to see what is underneath.
- Slowly allow the camera to go deeper to have a better view.
- Once you are convinced there are enough fish in the area, use your camera’s depth for setting your rigging line.
What should you be looking for?
Below are some of the factors you should consider as you look for a good camera for ice fishing
- Monitor size
- Field of view
- Battery life
- Cable length
- Additions
Monitor size
The size and resolution of the ice fishing camera monitor are undoubtedly critical factors. Because a camera is not the same as a sonar fish finder (there are options here of course), the clarity of your screen will ultimately determine how well you can see underneath the ice.
Screen sizes typically range from 4 to 8 inches with it definitely being a case of the larger the better. Some also allow you to adjust the brightness and contrast for a clearer image.
The portability of an underwater ice fishing camera is essential. While bigger may be better, if you bring a bulky underwater ice fishing camera with you, it could get damaged or in the way inside your ice fishing shelter.
Field of view
The field of view of an ice fishing camera describes the amount of space you’ll be able to see on your monitor based on its lens and is typically denoted in degrees. A regular field of view ranges from 80 to 135 degrees.
The direction display is another great feature that some monitors have as this indicates which direction your camera is pointing.
Battery life
The battery sizes available and the amount of power consumed by the camera and monitors can vary from one product to another. Still, it is safe to say that bestselling underwater cameras can operate continuously for 12 hours.
The camera you choose depends on how long you intend to be on the ice and how long you plan to run the camera. Some anglers only use the camera for scouting purposes, especially when they arrive at their favorite fishing spot. Others, on the other hand, keep them running until they are finished.
So choose a battery life that will work best with your needs.
Cable length
The cable length determines how far you can submerge the camera underneath the ice and is significant because it will increase your total range and give you more options for how deep you want to fish and what you want to seize.
Additionally, the length of the cable also gives you an idea of how far you can move the monitor away from the hole. If you intend to drill another spot with your ice auger while monitoring one that has already been made, a long cable would be required.
However, an ice fishing camera with much cable length could also hamper your movement inside of your shelter. Thus, ensure that you only purchase an item that fits your situation.
Additions
- LED lights: As you are fishing through a hole, sunlight is scarce hence your only source of illumination is the camera. As a result, LED lights are installed and help you see more clearly.
- SD card: This is used for storing videos you shoot during your ice fishing should you wish to go back and view afterwards.
- Carrying case: This becomes necessary in order to keep the ice fishing camera and its accessories organized and safe.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Eyoyo Portable LCD Underwater Fishing Camera
My first option offers a 7 inch TFT colour screen with a camera definition of up to 1000TV lines and infrared capabilities as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Eyoyo
- Monitor size: 7 inches
- Cable length: 15 meters
- Battery life: 6 – 8 hours
- Weight: 3.76 pounds
Other inclusions:
- 12 pieces infrared lights
- Durable carrying case
- IP68 waterproof
- Removable sun-visor on screen
Why have I chosen it?
The camera unit is an excellent choice for monitoring because it can directly transmit a clean HD feed (800 x 480) with a large screen with a sun visor that will allow for use outside as well. It also has a 12-piece LED IR array, which enables the camera to see in low-light conditions. This is a great budget option for ice fishing in all conditions.
2. OKK Portable Ice Fishing Camera
My second choice is equipped with DVR capabilities which means it allows you to record videos via the HD camera. The monitor is wide enough to help you see through the dark waters below with adjustable lights to give you more control over how you want to see what lies beneath. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Okk
- Monitor size: 7 inches
- Cable length: 30 meters
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Weight: 3.9 pounds
Other inclusions:
- 16 gigabyte SD card
- Aluminum case
- IP68 waterproof
- 15 pieces IR Infrared LED and 15 pieces white lights
Why have I chosen it?
The camera has a generous cable length of 30 meters that is useful in exploring your ice fishing spot. One of the best features of the equipment is its 15 pieces infrared lights and 15 white lights that allow you to easily switch between these two modes according to your preference. Once the battery is fully charged, you can enjoy continuous camera use for eight straight hours. Great for use in all water types and conditions.
3. Aqua-Vu Underwater Viewing System
This final product comes with a 7-inch LCD monitor and a colour camera with an Opti-RX Lab-Quality Lens. With its adjustable lights, you can also adjust for any need with unquestionable durability thanks to its IP67 waterproof grade. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Aqua-vu
- Monitor size: 7 inches
- Cable length: 15 meters
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Weight: 12 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Storage bag
- Anti-spook IR lighting
- IP67 Waterproof camera
Why have I chosen it?
The camera has an integrated fin that allows for down and side viewing with an anti-spook lighting system to avoid scaring your potential catch. These infrared settings and customization will enable you to be more discreet while surveying your fishing station and the auto low lighting makes it simple to conceal the camera without attracting attention as well. This is a great option for the avid ice fisher in any location.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best ice fishing cameras that can effectively assist your winter fish hunt. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
