Best Ice Fishing Tip-Ups of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Ice fishing tip-ups are a popular and efficient way to catch fish during the winter months. These devices are designed to alert fishermen when a fish has taken the bait by setting off a flag or other indicator. Tip-ups come in a variety of sizes and types, including traditional wooden models and more modern plastic versions with advanced features such as built-in lights and alarms. They are easy to use and can be set up in just a few minutes, making them a great choice for both experienced ice fishermen and beginners alike.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up Cover #TOP 1
Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Beaver Dam Ice Fishing Rail Tip-Up (BDTP-CL) Cover #TOP 2
Beaver Dam Ice Fishing Rail Tip-Up (BDTP-CL)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Brocraft Ice Fishing Tip-Up Cover #TOP 3
Brocraft Ice Fishing Tip-Up
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Ice Fishing Tip-Ups

#TOP 1

Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up

1693
Orange
One Size
Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up Cover
Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up (Chartreuse) Orange, One Size

FRABILL Arctic Fire Tip-Up is a reliable ice fishing tip-up with features that cater to different types of fish. The dual trip settings allow you to adjust the sensitivity based on the fish you're targeting. The high visibility flag ensures you can spot when you have a bite easily. The built-in ruler helps you measure your catch without the need for additional tools. The large capacity metal spool with counter-balance crank knobs provides a smooth fishing experience. Overall, FRABILL Arctic Fire Tip-Up is a durable and convenient tool for ice anglers.

What We Like
Dual Trip Settings
High Visibility Flag
Built-in Ruler
#TOP 2

Beaver Dam Ice Fishing Rail Tip-Up (BDTP-CL)

Beaver Dam
BDTP-CL
Clear
BDTP-CL
Beaver Dam Ice Fishing Rail Tip-Up (BDTP-CL) Cover
Beaver Dam BDTP-CL Rail Tip- Ups Original Clear Rail Tip- Ups

The Beaver Dam Ice Fishing Rail Tip-Up is a hand-made premium quality ice fishing tip-up that is freeze-proof and wind-tested in the harshest conditions. Its innovative underwater-spool design incorporates Smooth-Spool Technology and Freezeproof Grease to ensure that finicky game fish stay on the line following the take. The seamless steel tube is filled with a freezeproof lubricant for fail-safe operation while the fabric flag stands at 17.5" for easy visibility. The tip-up is built to last a lifetime and is still made by hand to provide smooth, trouble-free operation with ultimate stealth.

What We Like
Premium quality hand-made tip-up
Freeze-proof and wind-tested design in harsh ice conditions
Seamless steel tube filled with freezeproof lubricant for fail-safe operation
Fabric flag stands at 17.5" for easy visibility
Built to last a lifetime
#TOP 3

Brocraft Ice Fishing Tip-Up

BC-IFRH101
black
Brocraft Ice Fishing Tip-Up Cover
Brocraft Ice Fishing Tip-Ups/Ice Fishing Rod Holder/Ice Fishing Tip Down/Ice Fishing Rigger

The Brocraft Tip-Up enhances your ice fishing experience by transforming your favorite rod and reel setup into a versatile tip-up or trap. This feature allows you to easily monitor multiple fishing lines simultaneously, increasing your chances of a successful catch. The built-in flag signals when a fish strikes, ensuring you don’t miss any opportunities. With its patent-pending design, you can enjoy a more efficient fishing process, making your time on the ice more productive and enjoyable. Note that the bobber kit is sold separately, so keep that in mind for your setup.

What We Like
Multi-rod fishing capability
Flag alerts for strikes
Transforms existing gear
Patent-pending design
#TOP 4

Celsius Multi 3 Pack Tip-Up

ITU-3/KIT
Multi
One Size
Celsius Multi 3 Pack Tip-Up Cover
Celsius Multi 3 Pack Tip-Up with Tackle, One Size

The Celsius Tip-Up is a fishing equipment package that includes a multi 3 pack tip-up with tackle. With a compact package size of 5.08 cm in length, 15.24 cm in width, and 60.96 cm in height, this product is ideal for ice fishing enthusiasts. The tip-up design provides convenience for setting up multiple lines, while the included tackle enhances your fishing experience. Stay organized and ready to catch more fish with this Celsius Tip-Up.

What We Like
Compact Package Size
Multi 3 Pack Tip-Up
Includes Tackle
#TOP 5

Celsius CE-UT-2PK Up-Tip Hole-Cover/2 Pack

CE-UT-2PK
Multi
One Size
Celsius CE-UT-2PK Up-Tip Hole-Cover/2 Pack Cover
Celsius Easy to Clip/10 CE-UT-2PK Up-Tip Integrated Hole-Cover/2 Pack

The Celsius CE-UT-2PK Up-Tip Hole-Cover is a set of 2 ice fishing tip-ups that come with an up-tip base, spool arm, and pre-lined spool. The innovative above ice spool system and integrated hole-cover make it easy to use and assemble. This product is perfect for ice fishing enthusiasts who want a hassle-free experience.

What We Like
Comes in a pack of 2
Easy to assemble and use
Innovative above ice spool system
Integrated hole-cover
#TOP 6

CLAM Trophy Thermal Tip Up

18601
Blue
Standard
CLAM Trophy Thermal Tip Up Cover
CLAM Trophy Thermal Tip Up

The CLAM Tip Up is designed for ice fishing enthusiasts who want reliability and efficiency. With a 10.5-inch diameter, it fits all hole sizes, ensuring versatility on the ice. Its thermal foam insulation keeps your bait protected and fresh for longer, enhancing your chances of a catch. The adjustable high-visibility flag allows you to spot bites from a distance, while the adjustable shaft provides customization for different ice conditions. Together, these features make the CLAM Tip Up a practical choice for any angler looking to improve their ice fishing experience.

What We Like
Versatile hole size compatibility
Thermal insulation for durability
High-visibility flag for easy monitoring
Customizable shaft length
#TOP 7

SF Black Ice Fishing Tip-Up

SF
TP0001A
Black
17.3x15.6inch.
SF Black Ice Fishing Tip-Up Cover
SF Black Ice Fishing Tip-Up Foldable with Orange Pole Flags Ice Fishing Strike Indicators Accessories

The SF Ice Fishing Tip-Up is designed for convenience and efficiency during your winter fishing trips. Its foldable design makes it easy to transport and set up, allowing you to focus on fishing rather than managing equipment. With strong metal components and a durable plastic spool, you can rely on its performance. The flexible metal parts feature a vibrant red flag that alerts you to any bites, ensuring you won't miss a catch. Additionally, the built-in ruler on the base measures up to 16 inches, making it simple to keep track of your fish size.

What We Like
Foldable for easy transport
Durable materials
Bright flag for alerts
Measuring ruler included
#TOP 8

Vexan Ice Fishing Tip Up 3-Pack

Green
Vexan Ice Fishing Tip Up 3-Pack Cover
Vexan Ice Fishing Tip Up - High Visibility Green Tip Ups Ice Fishing w/Reflective Strike Indicator Flag - 18" Max Span, Easy-Deploy Ice Fishing Tip Up Hardware - Essential Ice Fishing Gear (3-Pack)

The Vexan Ice Fishing Tip Ups make your fishing experience easier and more efficient. With rapid setup and tangle-free storage, you can quickly deploy your gear without worrying about messy lines. Their bright green color enhances visibility, helping you spot your setup easily and keeping other anglers informed. The reflective flag serves as an instant alert when a fish bites, ensuring you never miss a catch. Additionally, the reliable no-slip design features a sturdy spool handle and grip teeth that anchor securely in the ice, providing you with confidence and stability while fishing.

What We Like
Quick setup and takedown
High visibility for easy spotting
Reflective flag for bite alerts
No-slip design for stability
#TOP 9

Clam 10391 Blue Ice Tip Up

10391
Blue
Standard
Clam 10391 Blue Ice Tip Up Cover
CLAM 10391 Blue Ice Tip Up

The Clam 10391 Blue Ice Tip Up is a must-have for ice fishing enthusiasts. With a 14” flag shaft that has a high-visibility red flag, you can easily spot when a fish is biting. The dual trip settings make it suitable for different types of fish, while the low temperature lube ensures smooth operation even in cold conditions. Additionally, it comes pre-spooled with 25 yards of 15 lb nylon braid, making it ready to use right out of the box.

What We Like
High-visibility red flag makes it easy to spot when a fish is biting
Dual trip settings suitable for different types of fish
Low temperature lube ensures smooth operation in cold conditions
Pre-spooled with 25 yards of 15 lb nylon braid for immediate use
#TOP 10

Beaver Dam BDTP-AF Tip-Up

Beaver Dam
BDTP-AF
Beaver Dam BDTP-AF Tip-Up Cover
BEAVER DAM American Flag Tip-Up BDTP-AF

The Beaver Dam Tip-Up is a classic choice for ice fishing enthusiasts. Its original design has been proven effective for catching fish, giving you confidence on the ice. You’ll appreciate its smooth operation, which allows for stealthy fishing, so you can avoid scaring away your catch. Hand-crafted on a custom-finished board, this tip-up combines quality and aesthetics, enhancing your fishing experience. Additionally, the customizable flag trip-tension settings let you adjust the sensitivity, ensuring you never miss a bite. This feature is especially useful for adapting to different fishing conditions.

What We Like
Proven fish-catching design
Smooth, quiet operation
Hand-crafted quality
Customizable tension settings
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need tip-ups for ice fishing?

Tip-ups are essential for ice fishing as they allow fishermen to fish multiple holes simultaneously, target different depths at once, and cover various positions on drop-offs or bottom structures. They are rigged with flags that pop up when a fish takes the bait, making it easier to monitor multiple lines at once.

2. What is the best depth to ice fish?

The best depth for ice fishing generally ranges from 3 to 20 feet. It is often observed that the locations where fish are found during the spring and fall seasons are the same areas where they can be found in winter. Setting up traps to cover a variety of depths can increase your chances of success while ice fishing.

3. What pound tip-up line should I use?

The pound test line to use for tip-ups depends on the type of fish you are targeting. A 20-30 lb. test line is suitable for bass, while larger fish like pike, lake trout, and salmon may require a heavier test line. It's important to use an improved clinch knot to securely attach a barrel swivel to the fishing line.

4. What should you not do when ice fishing?

When ice fishing, it is important to avoid areas with moving water as the ice is usually weaker in such locations. It is advisable to ask locals for information on safe fishing spots and to be aware of your surroundings, including watching out for snow conditions. Fishing with a companion, spreading out, and carrying spikes for added traction are also recommended safety measures.

5. Can you leave tip-ups overnight?

Leaving tip-ups overnight or during cold days is possible, but it is recommended to use hole covers to prevent the holes from freezing over. These covers can be purchased or made by cutting specialty mats for standing 4x4. Using hole covers helps protect the tip-ups and makes it easier to continue fishing without having to chip out the tip-up.

6. How much line should I put on a tip up?

When spooling a tip-up, it is not crucial to fill the entire spool with line. A good practice is to put about 50-75 yards of Dacron line on each spool of the tip-up. This amount of line is typically sufficient for ice fishing and allows for easy handling and management of the line.

Editor's Notes

During our ice fishing tip-up research, we found 24 ice fishing tip-up products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 16,923 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ice fishing tip-ups list. We found that most customers choose ice fishing tip-ups with an average price of $27.82.

The ice fishing tip-ups are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ice fishing tip-ups, including FRABILL, Beaver Dam, Brocraft, Celsius, CLAM. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.