2026 Forest Lake Ice Classic

Ice Fishing Contest Registration

Join us for the Forest Lake Ice Classic Bucket Ice Fishing Contest, a fun and family-friendly event open to anglers of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned ice angler or trying it for the first time, this event is a great way to enjoy a day on the ice while supporting a great cause.

This event proudly supports local charities and community programs, including veterans organizations, high school fishing teams, local schools, food shelves, and more. Every ticket purchased helps give back to the Forest Lake community.

Contest Format (Generalized)

• “Bucket” ice fishing only

• All holes are pre-drilled

  • Each ticket equals one fishing hole

  • Maximum of two holes per person (Must purchase second ticket for second hole)

  • If purchasing two holes, they must be immediately adjacent

  • Participants must fish only from their assigned hole(s)

  • No sharing or swapping holes or fish

• One main prize per person

  • If a participant qualifies for multiple placements, the highest prize will be awarded

Fishing Rules (Highlights)

• One line in the water per hole - (Rod or tip-up)

• No lines in the water before 12:00 PM

  • Contest fishing hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

  • Hole locations open at 10:00 AM

• Fish must be alive at weigh-in and in line by 3:00 PM

• Northern Pike 22”–26” must be released immediately

• Valid Minnesota fishing license required

• All Minnesota DNR regulations apply

Equipment & Bait Rules (Highlights)

Please read carefully before arriving:

• Traditional ice fishing gear only

• Bring your own rod, bucket, and fishing gear

• No electronics allowed

  • (including flashers, Vexilars, LiveScope, cameras, or similar devices)

• No shelters, hubs, or wheelhouses

• No personal augers or hole-drilling equipment

• Outside bait is required

  • Bait must be 4 inches or less, dead or alive

  • Dry bait (waxies, plastics) is allowed

• Failure to follow equipment or fishing rules may result in disqualification

• 👉 View full rules here

Prizes & Official Rules

• View the full prize list on our website

• Review the official contest rules before the event

• All participants must follow posted rules and on-site instructions

Getting Here

• Need directions or parking info? 👉 View that here

• Parking near the contest on the ice, Parkside areas, and boat areas is not allowed.

• Free shuttle service is available from Running Aces starting at 9:00 AM.

Questions?

• Have questions about:

  • Tickets?

  • Rules?

  • Sponsorships?

  • Volunteering?

• Please contact us through the website here - we’re happy to help.

• You can also check out our FAQ page where many common questions are already answered.

All event and raffle details subject to change. No guarantees. Official rules and information available on the event website and/or day of event.