Fishing can be boring for some. But to us, it’s a great outdoor activity. It’s relaxing, calming, and allows you to learn more about underwater environments. And ice fishing takes the experience to a whole new level! As you may know, fishing through a small opening in a frozen body of water means you won’t have enough visibility. That’s when underwater cameras come in handy. They not only allow you to see what’s underwater but conveniently help you locate the fish! Before planning your next adventure, make sure to buy the best underwater camera for ice fishing, which you’ll find on our list!
How to Choose the Best Underwater Camera for Ice Fishing
Like regular cameras, underwater cameras vary in different aspects, such as resolution and size. And since they’re designed for cold temperatures, their resistances also vary. Before clicking the “Add to Cart” button, check these five key features:
Weight
Unlike regular fishing, ice fishing isn’t usually done on a boat. Therefore, you might think weight is not as important as it won’t disrupt your boat’s balance. However, it’s one of the most important things you need to consider. Trust us, you don’t want a heavy camera or monitor that will weigh down your fishing rod. Most underwater cameras or fish finding systems weigh less than 2 pounds. But, like everything else, there are exceptions. Depending on the model and brand, some of them can weigh up to 5 pounds. Before buying one, make sure to check its weight.
LED lights
As you may know, lighting is not the best when it comes to ice fishing. Since you’re fishing through a hole, sunlight is extremely limited, and your only vision is the camera. Therefore, the more LED lights included, the clearer the images will be. The majority of underwater cameras for ice fishing include lighting. But we recommend you buy one with infrared LED lights to avoid scaring the fish away. Also, they should include more than four lights if you want a decent video or photo quality. These LED lights are also ideal for fishing at nighttime.
Size
A large, bulky camera will require a bigger hole on the ice. Besides, the bigger the monitor, the more space it will take on your fishing rod. In general, the majority of fish finding systems have an average dimension of 5-7 inches. And depending on the carrying bag, they can be up to 8 inches large in total. If you want the camera for the sole purpose of locating fish, a small one will do. But if you want to record the exact moment the fish bites, then we recommend you buy a bigger camera.
Resolution
Resolution is something you can’t overlook, especially if you want the camera for video recording. Fortunately, technology is improving every day, and thus, camera resolutions are better than they were ten years ago. When buying the best underwater ice fishing camera, check the resolution featured. If you want to record videos, we recommend you look for resolutions higher than 720p. Even if you don’t film, you’ll still take beautiful, high-definition photographs. However, higher resolution equals higher prices. Depending on your preferences and budget, pick the one that suits your needs best.
Screen size
Lastly, you must check the screen’s size. Why? Because if you want a clearer view of the underwater environment, a small monitor isn’t ideal. Most screen displays have a size of 7 inches. But if you’re looking for a compact camera, then the screens won’t be larger than 3-4 inches. Therefore, if you want to see every detail, every fish, look for screens that are at least 7-inch wide. Also, if you want to see when the fishes bite the baits, a bigger one will do. But for those who only want to locate the fish, any waterproof cameras under 200 USD will do.
Olymbros Underwater Fishing Camera
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If you’re looking for a small, affordable underwater camera, Olymbros Underwater Fishing Camera is a great option. With a dimension of 5.9 x 2.9 x 1.9 inches, it’s one of the most compact cameras for ice fishing you can find. Its design includes fins that prevent the camera from shaking due to water flow and currents. Steady images are guaranteed!
The camera captures both photographs and videos and records in a high-definition resolution of 1280 x 720. And the built-in yellow LED light itself makes it the best underwater camera for ice fishing. The yellow color not only helps to light the photographs but also avoids scaring the fish away. This feature allows you to record at nighttime and on cloudy days, too. For your convenience, it includes a 32G micro SD card that provides plenty of space for your videos. You can record up to a 4-hour worth of footage!
What We Love
The most compact underwater camera for your ice fishing adventures!
Pros:
- Lightweight
- HD 1280 x 720
- Compact
- 4-hour recording time
- Includes yellow LED light for night recording
Cons:
Less underwater capacity compared to others.
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LUCKY Portable Underwater Fishing Camera
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LUCKY Portable Underwater Fishing Camera features a 4.3inch TFT monitor that helps you locate fish faster. Meanwhile, the 65ft (20m) cable wire enhances the camera’s mobility and makes it easier to use. On top of that, the camera’s multifunctional design makes it an excellent candidate for the best underwater ice fishing camera. You can not only record videos and photograph fish, but you can also browse through your files on the monitor. So convenient!
For your comfort, the camera features an adjustable sun-visor that keeps the images clear at all times. Even better, it also has a 120° visual angle that provides panoramic and realistic underwater views. The four infrared LED lights are perfect for fishing at any time and anywhere. Its lithium battery is fully rechargeable in just 7 hours to stay on for 5 hours straight. A free rod bracket to connect the camera to your fishing rod is also included.
What We Love
Features one of the widest visual angles you can find.
Pros:
- Multifunctional design
- 120° observing degree video camera
- 5-hour recording time
- Adjustable sun-visor
- Includes free 16GB memory card
Cons:
Color, contrast, and brightness of the monitor are not adjustable.
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Aqua Vu Micro Stealth 4.3 Underwater Camera Viewing System
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Next up is a simple yet effective underwater camera for your ice fishing trips. Aqua Vu Micro Stealth 4.3 Underwater Camera Viewing System is one of the smallest camera sets you can find. It has a dimension of 3 x 9 x 12 inches and weighs as low as 1lb, which makes packing it super easy.
It features a 4.3inch LCD that provides you with high definition images. And the micro camera has a 50ft ruggedized cable that offers free movement. For your convenience, the camera features a large 135° visual angle. Perfect to take wide-angle photos! It also includes auto infrared lighting that ensures the photograph’s quality and provides smooth movement in the water.
Both the adjustable fin and clip system make it user-friendly and keep the camera safe. While the rechargeable lithium battery features a 6-hour runtime. Even better, you can check the battery status on the monitor’s menu.
What We Love
The monitor is as small as a mini-tablet!
Pros:
- Compact
- 50ft cable wire
- 135° visual angle
- Lightweight
- 6-hour working time
Cons:
The camera doesn’t include LED lights for night recording.
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LUCKY Portable High-Resolution Underwater Fishing Camera
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Once again, a LUCKY camera has made it to the list. This time, it’s the Portable High-Resolution Underwater Fishing Camera. It’s a compact camera that includes a 4.3inches high-resolution screen and an anti-glare. For your convenience, it also features not only a camera function but a video and file browsing functions. Perfect to document some fishing actions!
The camera includes a free 16GB ram card, which is always useful for a first-timer. But you can also use your own as it’s also compatible with all types of ram cards. To keep things simple and easy to use, it has an automatic video recording mode. Just press the mode button to switch the working mode!
The 65ft. (20m) cable wire allows you to record deeper under the ice. And it has a maximum bearing tension of 88lbs, which surely makes it the best underwater camera for ice fishing.
What We Love
A compact underwater camera perfect for any type of fishing!
Pros:
- High-resolution screen
- Compatible with all TF cards
- 20m cable length
- 6m detecting distance
- Compact
Cons:
Pricier compared to other underwater cameras of the same size.
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MarCum Recon 5 Underwater Camera Viewing System
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Marcum Recon 5 Underwater Camera Viewing System features an adjustable 5-inch LCD monitor. You can adjust the color, brightness, and contrast to suit every underwater environment you fish in. The screen displays a 16:9 aspect ratio of a 110°-wide angle and shows the battery’s status. Meanwhile, the 50ft cable wire enhances its mobility. This is what you need for great underwater photographs and videos!
It’s also a versatile camera, ideal for both daytime and nighttime. It features a LED and infrared lighting that allows you to fish in dark and muddy waters. And if you enjoy long fishing trips, you’ll love the battery’s 6-hour runtime.
For your convenience, it includes a carrying bag with an adjustable shoulder strap that fits both the monitor and camera. Lastly, we love the camera’s small size. It has a dimension of 10 x 4 x 12 inches and a weight of 2.2 pounds.
What We Love
A small yet effective camera that features one of the best fishing monitors.
Pros:
- Adjustable brightness and contrast
- LED lighting
- 50ft cable wire
- 110° visual angle
- LCD monitor
Cons:
It’s less resistant to extremely cold temperatures compared to other cameras for ice fishing.
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Eyoyo Portable Underwater Fishing Camera Fixed on Rod (CU)
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If water-resistance is the most important feature you’re looking for in your camera, this is your best option. Eyoyo Portable Underwater Fishing Camera Fixed on Rod features an IP68 lens that protects against water and dust. The 4.3inch LCD monitor provides clear photographs and lets you see the moment a fish bites your bait. Fishing has never been so fun! And to prevent sunlight from ruining your on-screen images, the monitor conveniently includes a sun visor.
The camera itself features a 110° visual angle and eight infrared LED lights, making it great for fishing in low light environments. Even better, the lighting is adjustable, and you can easily do it with the “up” and “down” buttons on the monitor. Like most underwater cameras, it features a built-in rechargeable battery. But what makes it the best underwater ice fishing camera is the battery’s capacity: 8500mAh. It stays on for 8 hours straight! And for your convenience, the camera includes a special bracket that allows you to install it on your fishing rod.
What We Love
The best waterproof camera lens you can find.
Pros:
- 8-hour runtime
- IP68 waterproof lens
- Includes sun visor
- Includes 8 IR LED lights
- 110° visual angle
Cons:
The video quality is not the best.
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Aqua-Vu AV 715C Underwater Viewing System
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Are you looking for a high-quality underwater camera that won’t break the bank? Look no further! Aqua-Vu AV 715C Underwater Viewing System provides high-quality images at the best price point. It features a 7-inch LCD monitor with integrated sun shield and screen protection. And to enhance its durability, it features IP67 waterproof protection. Ideal for those ice fishing trips! On the other hand, the camera’s color CMOS optics provide you with vibrant, full-color photographs and videos.
The camera is perfect if you like to fish in secluded, dark spots. It features an auto low-light mode that adjusts lighting depending on the surrounding. But if you prefer, you can manually modify it. The 50ft cable ensures the camera’s underwater movement. It’s designed with a fin that provides both side and down view. And for your comfort, it includes a custom storage bag.
What We Love
It’s an affordable high-quality underwater video camera.
Pros:
- 50ft cable wire
- Affordable
- Includes storage bag
- Auto low-light mode
- Adjustable lightning
Cons:
The design is rather bulky.
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Eyoyo Underwater Fishing Video Camera
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Eyoyo Underwater Fishing Video Camera features a 7-inch color monitor with 800 x 480 pixels resolution that provides realistic and accurate displays. And for bright environments, just reattach its removable sun visor. The camera itself features a 1000TV-Line resolution. High-quality photographs are guaranteed! Even better, it can view up to 3m away.
Now, if you like to fish at night or in dark muddy water, you’ll enjoy the 12 infrared LED lights included. Don’t worry about the lens toughness as it has an IP68 waterproof level. With a 9.5 x 8.3 x 5.3-inch dimension, it’s basically a compact viewing system. However, it weighs 3.75lbs, so keep that in mind when buying it.
For your comfort, it includes a waterproof carrying case, charger, battery, and a metal clip. The rechargeable lithium battery will last up to 8 hours when fully charged, making it the best underwater camera for ice fishing.
What We Love
It’s a practical fish viewing system that’s also budget-friendly.
Pros:
- Includes carrying case
- 8-hour runtime
- Includes 12 infrared LED lights
- LCD monitor
- Two monitor sizes available
Cons:
Heavier compared to other underwater fishing cameras.
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MOOCOR Underwater Fishing Camera
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This one is for those who are looking for a lightweight yet efficient underwater camera. MOOCOR Underwater Fishing Camera features not only an underwater 1000 TVL camera but also an LCD monitor. The perfect combo for high-quality photographs and videos! The camera provides images of the environment and lets you see when the fish bites. It also features infrared LED lights, ideal for fishing in icy, dark waters.
For your convenience, the monitor has a sun visor that protects your screen from the sun’s brightness. The camera itself features a multifunctional design where you can zoom in, check the battery’s status, or adjust the screen’s brightness and contrast. With a dimension of 4.91 x 3.36 x 1.56 inches and a weight of 0.4lbs, it’s the most lightweight and compact underwater camera you can find. With a runtime up to 8 hours per charge, it’s great for long fishing trips.
What We Love
It’s a lightweight underwater camera suitable for backpackers.
Pros:
- 1000 TVL camera
- 49ft cable wire
- Includes sun visor
- 8-hour runtime
- Adjustable brightness and contrast
Cons:
The cable wire is not as sturdy as others.
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Eyoyo Underwater Ice Fishing Camera
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Eyoyo makes some of the best underwater cameras, and their Underwater Ice Fishing Camera is no exception. This camera features a 1280 x 720 resolution, providing vibrant, clear photographs and videos. Meanwhile, the 7inch IPS screen comes with a 1024 x 600 resolution that enhances the image’s quality even more. Prepare for some outstanding shots of the underwater life! Also, the screen features a full-view panel that lets you see the camera’s image from any angle.
For your comfort, it also comes with a sun visor helpful when fishing under the sun. Compared to other Eyoyo models, this one doesn’t require a third-party player to view the videos, which makes it the best underwater camera for ice fishing. Even better, you can also access them directly on your phone. A free 8GB memory card is included, too. Lastly, the camera’s infrared lights provide the perfect lighting, ideal for fishing at night and in dark water.
What We Love
It takes high-quality underwater photographs.
Pros:
- 720p camera
- 6-8h working time
- 12 infrared LED lights
- Includes carrying suitcase
- Screen resolution of 1024 x 600p
Cons:
Pricier compared to other underwater cameras for ice fishing.
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MarCum Mission SD Underwater Viewing System (CU)
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MarCum Mission SD Underwater Viewing System features a 7-inch screen with a 1080p resolution. The on-screen display itself makes it the best underwater camera for ice fishing. Here’s why: it shows the water’s temperature and depth, battery status, while letting you adjust the status brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color.
On top of that, the built-in sun visor protects your images from sun glares. On the other hand, the screen also features Marcum’s Solar Intelligent Technology that provides a clear daylight view.
Overall, the camera has an enhanced optic system that delivers clear, vivid photographs and videos. And the 75ft wire cable ensures the camera’s ease of movement. The viewing system has a dimension of 7.5 x 10 x 10 inches, which makes it big enough without compromising its portability. And to enhance your comfort further, it includes a custom carrying bag that fits the camera, monitor, batter, and battery charger.
What We Love
A heavy-duty underwater camera ideal for ice fishing.
Pros:
- Includes sun visor
- LED lights
- 75ft cable wire
- LCD screen
Cons:
One of the most expensive underwater cameras on the market.
OKK Portable Underwater Fishing Camera
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If you’re looking for a heavy-duty underwater viewing system, OKK Portable Underwater Fishing Camera is a great option. It features a 1920 x 1080 AHD screen, which is one of the best high-definition monitors you can find. The images are not only smoother but also more precise and accurate. However, it’s the lighting system that makes it the best underwater ice fishing camera. It features not only 15 infrared LED lights but also 15 white lights. Dark and muddy waters won’t be a problem anymore!
A 16GB memory card is also included, perfect for recording as much as you want. It also provides both recording and photographing functions. Capture the exact moment the fish bites the bait!
Safety-wise, the built-in lithium battery features short circuit protection. And when fully charged, it lasts up to 8 hours. Meanwhile, the camera is anti-corrosive and impact-resistant, which enhances its durability. It’s pricier compared to other underwater fishing cameras, but it’s worth it.
What We Love
The most equipped underwater viewing system for ice fishing.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Includes 16GB memory card
- 5-hour runtime
- 15 infrared LED lights
- 15 white lights
Cons:
Heavier than most underwater fish viewing systems.
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MOOCOR Underwater Fishing 1000 TVL Camera (CU)
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When it comes to ice fishing, you want the best underwater camera you can get. And MOOCOR Underwater Fishing 1000 TVL Camera is your best option. With a dimension of 7.09 x 5.79 x 3.74 inches and a 1.3lbs weight, it’s an ultra-lightweight and compact underwater camera.
Its size doesn’t compromise its quality, though. It features a 5-inch monitor with a high resolution of 800 x 480p, which provides you clear images. It also lets you see clearly underwater. So convenient! Even better, the screen displays essential information such as the water’s temperature and depth and the camera’s direction.
The monitor also features a file browsing function, perfect for deleting faulty files and making space for new ones right away. Besides, the 1000 TVL camera has a 130° angle that offers a broad view of the environment. The four infrared and the two white LED lights are ideal for fishing in dark waters or at nighttime.
To make fishing trips even more convenient, the rechargeable battery can be powered through a power bank. And once it’s charged, it can run up to 8 hours. Without a doubt, it’s the best underwater camera for ice fishing.
What We Love
From high resolution to functionality, this underwater camera has it all.
Pros:
- 8-hour working time
- Compact
- Lightweight
- 4 infrared LED lights
- 2 white LED lights
Cons:
Pricier compared to other underwater fishing cameras that are bigger.
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