Getting the best ice fishing jacket is super important when you want to keep your core warm during cold weather. That’s why today, we’re going to share with you some secrets and guidelines for choosing a floating ice fishing jacket. If you’re short on time, we’ve also got a curated list of some of the best ice fishing jackets currently available around.
Keep in mind that all the products featured on this list are selected based on unbiased research. We’re not sponsored or endorsed by any jacket brand. With that being said, let’s start our review on the best ice fishing jackets!
Table of contents
- Nomakk Heated Jacket
- Wantdo 3 in 1 Waterproof Jacket
- Frabill Safety Gear
- Simms Challenger Fishing Rain Coat
- Eskimo Legend Insulated Jacket
- StrikerICE Climate Jacket
- StrikerICE Hardwater Jacket
- Striker Predator Jacket
- DSG Outerwear Avid Ice Fishing Jacket
- Frabill Ice Hunter Jacket
- Eskimo Bibjak Pullover
- Icearmor Clam Ascent Float Parka
- Riverruns Fishing Jacket
- How to Choose The Best Ice Fishing Jacket
Nomakk Heated Jacket
13
The Nomakk Heated Jacket isn’t your regular ice fishing jacket. Instead of lining insulation, this outfit relies on its heating system to keep you toasty during cold weather. Yes, you read that right! This jacket comes with a battery-powered heating element. When the weather gets chillier than expected, all you need to do is press a single button to get that extra warmth.
If you look at the front and back, this best ice fishing jacket has a kind of panel. They’ll glow when you turn on the heater. You can even choose whether you want all panels to work or just one side. Fantastic!
Pros
- Heating elements
- USB charging
- 10-hour battery life
- Unique
Cons
- Not recommended for harsher weather
Wantdo 3 in 1 Waterproof Jacket
12
Wantdo 3 in 1 Waterproof Jacket will help you save a lot of money. Why so? Because you only need to pay one price for three jackets! Doesn’t it make sense to you? Well, let’s check out what this floating ice fishing jacket has. First of all, there’s a durable and waterproof outer shell. For extra warmth, there’s an inner puffer jacket. You can wear one or both at once, depending on the weather you’re in.
If that wasn’t enough, this best ice fishing jacket also comes with zippered vents. When you feel that it’s getting a little too warm, you can open them to release some heat. As for storage, the Wantdo 3 in 1 Waterproof Jacket has a chest pocket and a zippered outer pocket.
Want to keep all your fishing gear safe and dry? Check out our best waterproof fishing backpacks.
Pros
- Multifunction
- Waterproof
- Windproof
- Washable
Cons
- It’s a little heavier
Frabill Safety Gear
11
The Frabill Safety Gear needed no introduction. This best ice fishing jacket comes from one of the most well-known fishing gear brands. It has two loops for your icepick. Both are easy to reach, which should come in handy when the situation gets more challenging than expected. For an added safety measure, there are reflective patches. This will make it easier for others to see you in darkness or low-light conditions.
And it doesn’t end there! This floating ice fishing jacket is also waterproof and warm. It has 3M insulation and a taffeta lining to ensure you stay toasty all day long. If you get a windy day, this jacket comes with two-layer technology to help you fight the breeze.
Pros
- Nylon
- Made in the USA
- Waterproof
- Breathable
Cons
- Some find that this jacket is too warm
Simms Challenger Fishing Rain Coat
10
Simms is better known for its fly-fishing equipment. However, the brand has started working on the ice fishing segments in recent months. As a result, you get the Simms Challenger Fishing Rain Coat. It’s a fishing jacket with a lightweight outer shell. This garment will help keep you warm without giving you all that extra bulk.
One of our biggest problems with waterproof jackets is the seams. They tend to loosen over time, allowing water to seep in. But with the Simms Challenger Fishing Rain Coat, you won’t have that issue because all the seams have been taped. Another reason to go with this best ice fishing jacket is its breathability. It will prevent you from sweating excessively.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Unique look
- Waterproof
Cons
- Hand wash only
Eskimo Legend Insulated Jacket
9
The Eskimo Legend Insulated Jacket isn’t exactly the most affordable ice fishing jacket around. However, you get what you pay for. The jacket is made using Duradry 210D polyester to help you fight the breeze and water. It’s also reinforced with 500D nylon for increased durability without adding excessive bulk.
Thanks to the Uplyft breathable flotation assistance, the jacket will help you stay afloat in case you fall through the ice. This feature works much like an airbag. It will increase your chances of survival when you are caught in an unfavorable situation. As for warmth, this floating ice fishing jacket has a total of 160gm of insulation, 100gm on the body, and 60g on the sleeves.
Pros
- Polyester
- Imported
- Duradry
- Tough
Cons
- It’s quite expensive
StrikerICE Climate Jacket
8
The StrikerICE Climate Jacket will force you to reach deeper into your pocket. But don’t worry, because the quality of this jacket is unmatched. It’s made using a waterproof and breathable 320D nylon shell. For a safety measure, there’s 150g of Sureflote Flotation Assistance technology to save you when the situation gets out of hand.
We also love that this jacket has a removable G2 Softshell liner. So when the weather gets colder, you have an option for that extra warmth. Now that’s what we call the best ice fishing jacket!
Pros
- 100% polyester
- Made in the USA
- Zipper closure
- Heavy-duty climate jacket
Cons
- You need to spend more on this
StrikerICE Hardwater Jacket
7
It’s hard not to mention the StrikerICE Hardwater Jacket when you talk about the best ice fishing jackets. This rugged outfit is made from the 600 Endura shell, which is claimed to withstand varying weather conditions. Meanwhile, the 150g Thermadex insulation will keep you warm and comfortable, even on the coldest of days.
In case you get soaked, the water will drain quickly. All thanks to quick-drying hems and cuff vents. For added visibility, StrikerICE. Hardwater Jacket has reflective material on the body. It will help vehicles or other people see you more easily under dark conditions.
Before you move on to the next entry, check out our best sunglasses for fishing. They’re great for helping you scan through the ripples and make you look amazing!
Pros
- Lycra
- Made in the USA
- High-quality material
- Reflective elements
Cons
- It’s a bit bulky
Striker Predator Jacket
6
The Striker Predator Jacket is one of the best ice fishing outfits money can buy. It’s equipped with Hydrapore technology and a water-resistant 3200D nylon Tussor. No matter how rough the weather is out there, you won’t get the slightest bit of water or snow penetrating inside. And in case the situation gets more complicated, you have an adjustable hood to make sure you stay dry all day long.
This best ice fishing jacket features 100g Thermadex insulation, promoting ultimate warmth. That should be more than enough to keep you toasty for over six hours. As for storage options, you have pockets with a magnetic clasp. They allow you to reach your fishing accessories easily. If you’re looking for high-quality gear, the Predator will make an excellent choice.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Zipper closure
- 100g Thermadex insulation
- Large pockets with magnetic clasps
Cons
- It doesn’t get many reviews on Amazon
DSG Outerwear Avid Ice Fishing Jacket
5
The DSG Outerwear Avid Ice Fishing Jacket is simply perfect. It has a snug-fitting but with some room for you to move around. There are vents in the armpit area to prevent you from sweating excessively. We also love the fact that the sleeves have built-in thumb holes. They make it easy when you want to snatch something out of your pocket, use your phone, or set up your fishing rod.
Other details worth mentioning include a removable hood, loop cuffs, and a microfiber pocket that sits in the chest pocket. In short, the DSG Outwear Avid Ice Fishing Jacket is a fully-functional gear. It looks quite fashionable too. If you’re in the market hunting for a floating ice fishing jacket, this one is going to be great.
Pros
- Snap closure
- Flotex foam insulation
- Polyester shell
- Underarm vent
Cons
- Only comes in three different colors
Frabill Ice Hunter Jacket
4
The Frabill Ice Hunter Jacket is designed for the serious ice angler. It’s made with durability and toughness in mind. If you’re looking for the best ice fishing jacket that can last for years, this is it. It’s made of 100% polyester with a heavy-duty 1200D construction plus double stitching to cope with even the roughest conditions. There’s a 3M Thinsulate lining to make sure you won’t freeze while you’re busy with your fishing rod out there. No extra bulk, so you can stay mobile!
This floating ice fishing jacket comes with 3M reflective materials as a safety feature. They’ll increase your visibility in low light conditions. And in case things get out of hand, there’s a built-in ice pick to increase your chances of survival. The only downside is that this jacket comes in black and is now only available in size XX-Large.
Pros
- 100% polyester
- 1200D construction
- 3M reflective materials
- Built-in ice picks
Cons
- Only available in black
Eskimo Bibjak Pullover
3
The Eskimo Men’s BibJak Pullover is great when you need some severe outdoor gear. This rugged jacket is made of 100 percent polyester with a pull-on closure. Thanks to the durable DWR durable polyester fabric, protect yourself from all kinds of wind and rain. And for your convenience, this best ice fishing jacket is rated at 10K for water resistance and breathability. It’s also washing machine friendly, so maintenance shouldn’t be a problem here.
You know how much we love ice fishing jackets that provide lots of storage options. That’s why we’re so glad to know that the Eskimo Men’s BibJak Pullover has a molle with D-ring and two zipped pockets on the chest. If that’s not enough, you can use the lower kangaroo pouch. So what are you waiting for? Click the link above and get your floating ice fishing jacket now!
Before we unveil our runner-up, check out our best waterproof walkie-talkies for kayaking and fishing. They’ll provide you with excellent communication, even when you’re on the water.
Pros
- Imported
- Pull-on closure
- 100% polyester
- Drawcord hood
Cons
- Not available in small size
Icearmor Clam Ascent Float Parka
2
The Icearmor Clam Ascent Float Parka is everything you can expect from a floating ice fishing jacket. It’s safe, breathable, and flexible. However, the star of the show is Motion Float Technology. It’s a segmented design of floatation material that allows you to get maximum mobility without compromising on warmth and breathability. This is great when you want to stay active, even if it’s freezing out there.
Maintenance is easy. Just make sure you put your washing machine on a low setting and only use warm water. Bleaching or dry cleaning isn’t recommended. If you notice some wrinkles, you can do some cold ironing. Overall, we’re quite impressed with this floating ice fishing jacket. If you don’t mind spending between 200 and 300 USD, this will make a fantastic choice.
Pros
- 100 percent nylon shell
- Zipper closure
- Machine wash
- 300D waterproof
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey
Riverruns Fishing Jacket
1
The Riverruns Fishing Jacket is a well-made product. It comes with lots of nice details. The zipped pockets are conveniently located, allowing you to grab your gear when needed quickly. They’re made of excellent materials too. So when the weather is unfavorable, you can be relieved to know that your fishing gear is stored in a safe place.
Behind the neck, just below a flap, you’ll find a solid hook for your net. It works flawlessly and adds value to the jacket. Some reviewers did complain that it came with some weird smell. However, a simple wash will eliminate this issue. This best ice fishing jacket is now available for around 130 USD on Amazon if you’re interested.
Pros
- Buckle closure
- 100% waterproof
- Breathable
- Zippered pocket
Cons
- It comes with some weird smell
How to Choose The Best Ice Fishing Jacket
Getting the best ice fishing jacket is crucial. It is almost as important as your fishing rod, mainly because you’ll be wearing the jacket most of the time. Therefore, you need to get the right floating ice fishing jacket from the start. To help you out a bit, here are our three important tips for choosing the best ice fishing jacket.
Safety
While it’s not the most extreme activity around, ice fishing requires proper preparation. Wearing the best ice fishing jacket will help. Choose one that comes in a bright color. This will increase your visibility, making it easier for ATVs and snowmobiles to see you from a distance. Apart from that, make sure that the jacket floats. So in case you fall through the ice, you’ll have a better chance of surviving.
Insulation
Next, make sure you get a floating ice fishing jacket with the right level of insulation. We recommend models that have vents and zippers, so you can release some heat when you need to. And don’t forget that the best ice fishing jacket needs to have good breathability. It will prevent you from sweating excessively, which can make you cold.
And speaking of fishing, you might want to check out our best backpacks for fishing. They’re great when you want to travel with lots of fishing gear.
Feature
Besides keeping you warm, the best ice fishing jacket should allow you to stay mobile and organized. Therefore, look for one that comes with multiple pockets. It would be better if the jacket had loops and D rings. Both will be great for attaching your frequently used equipment. And if you need some extra warmth, look for a floating ice fishing jacket with paddings.