Hey there fishing enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best ice fishing jackets to keep warm with this year. Ice fishing is an exciting and very popular pastime however as the name suggests, things can get a little chilly out there on the ice.
But this begs the question, what qualities must I look for in buying ice fishing jackets? To help you out I have had a bit of a look around and come up with three good options below.
Let’s check them out…
My three recommended ice fishing jackets
I will review these in more detail below, however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my 3 recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
| Â | Ice Fishing Jacket | Price | Get it |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Frabill Ice Fishing Jacket | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Onyx Flotation Jacket | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | StrikerICE Climate Jacket | $$$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What are ice fishing jackets?
Ice fishing jackets are specialized clothing items that provide adequate insulation in frosty temperatures. They are generally made of highly insulated and waterproof fabrics that protect you from the cold air, snow, and water splashes. These jackets are also breathable enough to effectively wipe away sweat and moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable for more extended periods of fishing.
Now of course you could effectively use any jacket you like, as long as it keeps you warm. Ice fishing jackets however also tend to be a little stronger with extra pockets etc. for all those little extras you may need to carry whilst out on the ice as well.
What should you be looking for?
Below outlines some of the factors to look for as you shop for a good jacket for ice fishing.
- Construction material
- Insulation properties
- Flotation feature
- Mobility
- Additions
Construction material
The material is an important consideration when selecting an ice fishing jacket with the most effective options being made from materials such as neoprene, nylon, and polyester as these fabrics are also effective at protecting you from water, wind, and freezing temperatures.
It is also important to remember that other ice fishing jackets are also designed with added materials such as PVC or polyurethane (PU) to strengthen their warmth, durability and increase their waterproof rating. These materials are typically coated on top of the fabric or embedded within the primary material.
Insulation properties
As above, ice fishing is not the warmest undertaking you can do hence your fishing jacket should be well insulated as well. This feature lets your body retain enough heat to keep you warm during your cold-season fishing trips and ideally speaking, you should choose an ice fishing suit with at least 40 grams of insulating material.
Most ice fishing jackets are available in insulation levels ranging from 60g to 150g, with 60 to 100 grams ideal for milder days above 20°F (-6°C). Insulation levels greater than 100 grams are recommended for cold winter days below 20°F.
Flotation feature
As with most fishing exploits around water, Ice fishing does present the risk of falling into the water. Hence, flotation assistance in an ice jacket can be an absolute lifesaver.
Flotation happens when the jacket is made with lightweight foam sewn into cells inside the liner. These cells operate by trapping air inside the jacket and keeping you afloat long enough to seek help or perform a self-rescue.
Mobility
Some manufacturers have created more innovative designs that reduce the bulk of their ice fishing jackets while maintaining insulation. As previously stated, ice fishing jacket with polyurethane (PU) coating, similar to that used in diving suits, allow you to move freely while wearing them.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Reflective tape: The reflective strips on the jacket undoubtedly help to increase your visibility in low light conditions, allowing your fellow anglers to locate you in the event of an emergency.
- Removable liners: Should you be fishing inside a shelter, this feature enables you to adjust your clothing to the conditions precisely. Some anglers are easily overheated by their jackets, which can be remedied by removing some of the liners.
- Self-rescue features: The ice fishing jacket is equipped with safety equipment such as a whistle or light (much like a PFD) that you can use when the worst-case scenario occurs.
- Handwarmer pockets: As the name suggests, these will help with warmth even if you are wearing gloves.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Frabill Ice Fishing Jacket
This first ice fishing jacket has everything that you are looking for without asking too much from your budget. It has excellent insulation to keep you warm, and it is even equipped with self-rescue essentials if you find yourself in a life-threatening situation. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Frabill
- Material: 300 denier Nylon
- Insulation: 150g Thinsulate insulation
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Dimensions: Depends on the size
Other inclusions:
- Adjustable hood with sun visor
- Self-rescue set
- 150g Thinsulate insulation
- Handwarmer pockets
Why have I chosen it?
The jacket performs incredibly well in retaining body heat coupled with a generous pocket system to help keep your small items organized and safe. The self-rescue feature of this jacket is another excellent quality that you can benefit from. It is also however thin enough for use in other locations as well.
2. Onyx Flotation Jacket
My second ice fishing jacket choice grants you optimum safety with combined protection and warmth via its fleece lines collar. It also contains an internal interior waist belt to stop the it riding up. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Onyx
- Material: Raglan neoprene and fleece
- Insulation: Fleece
- Weight: 5.1 pounds
- Dimensions: Depends on the size
Other inclusions:
- Raglan sleeves
- Adjustable handcuffs
- Interior waist belt
Why have I chosen it?
The jacket gives you the mobility you need, thanks to the excellent design of the sleeves with materials that guarantee protection from hypothermia. This is a great option for those who like to fish in early and late season and just as effective for boating or sailing as well.
3. StrikerICE Climate Jacket
This final ice fishing jacket is a heavy-duty product that contains several useful features that you need to have a productive ice fishing adventure such as waterproof zippers and fluorescent tags. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Striker
- Material: 320 Nylon Tussor
- Insulation: 175g Thermadex insulation
- Weight: Not indicated
- Dimensions: Depends on the size
Other inclusions:
- Removable liner
- Valuable inner pockets
- Cross flow venting system
- Magnetic storm flap closures
- Flotation system
Why have I chosen it?
This jacket is incredibly and ingeniously designed with inner pockets keep handy personal items within your reach. The removable liners help you deal with the outside temperature to achieve comfort and protection with thermal insulation to help retain body warmth amid the harshest cold winds and snow sprays. This is the perfect ice fishing jacket for all conditions.
Conclusion
And there they are, my three best ice fishing jackets to keep you safe and warm during your cold-season fishing. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual please 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
