If you polled a dozen anglers regarding their on-ice eating habits, you’ll likely get a dozen different answers. For some, it’s all about the fishing. These folks are more than willing to trade a meal for more fish catches—opting to sneak in a snack stick or protein bar as time allows. For others, eating on the ice is part of the experience. They come fully prepared and have no concerns with leaving the fish for a bit to cook, eat and relish in the moment.

In general, cooking on the ice largely revolves around wheelhouse angling. Rightfully so, as such accommodations offer a wide array of amenities tailored for cooking. For the purposes of this article, however, we will focus primarily on options for the portable crowd.

Eating in the outdoors requires a special level of planning—especially for fishermen utilizing portable shacks. Like tent campers and backpackers, portable anglers are often limited to what they can bring. As a result, cooking methods typically come in the form of compact, transportable options which can be oversimplified into three major categories.

Portable burners

Portable burners and camp stoves are arguably the best options for cooking on the ice. They’re the most versatile choices, allowing users to cook, fry or boil with ease.

Their downfalls lie in the cookware required to use them. Having the proper cookware is necessary and can make the difference between eating or not. In general, liquid-based options, like soups and chilis, are better served from a pot, while solid meals, like meats or hot sandwiches, are more efficiently cooked from a pan.

Most burner and cook stove options run on either propane or isobutane, but a few newer options offer compatibilities with both. Regardless of fuel type, ensure that you have adequate fuel.

Portable grills

Portable grills are great options as well, especially for larger items or if you have a crowd to feed. While you’re a little more limited on what you can cook, there are still plenty of good selections.

In general, grills are much less compact than other methods, although there’s no better way to cook up meat like steaks, burgers or brats.

Portable grills include propane and charcoal based options. While we all know the taste benefits associated with charcoal, it’s significantly easier to rely on propane for cooking on the ice.

Heaters

A propane heater is another great method for cooking on the ice. It’s about as simple as it gets and doesn’t require much for additional gear. Since you’re relying on the heat from the heater, instead of an actual flame, it can take a bit longer to ensure your meal is fully cooked.

Historically, most have cooked directly on their heaters, but as mentioned, ice anglers are a crafty bunch. Handmade contraptions, like modified paint trays and metal racks adorn their heat sources. Manufacturers took notice, and as a result, anglers can add specialized racks, grates and griddles designed to fit their heater of choice. Such tools open up the meal options for heater-style cooking.

You have the cooking method down, but you still don’t know what to make. Thankfully, meal options are abundant and only limited by your preparation skills and cooking method.

A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to on-ice cooking. Figure out exactly what you need for a successful meal. Make your list and check it twice.

For the sake of simplicity, on-ice meals for portable anglers can be classified into a few major types.

Pre-made

Pre-made items are great, especially for those who don’t enjoy cooking or want to focus their attention on fishing.

Soups, stews and chilis are among the most-utilized, liquid-based nutrition methods. Prepared properly, a simple reheating is all that’s required. For something more substantial, pre-made burritos, hot sandwiches and stromboli are hard to top. Such options can be warmed using any of the major cooking methods.

Other easy-to-heat-and-eat options include pre-packed ramen and noodle cups, which only require a bit of boiling water.

Pan-fried

Due to the popularity of single burner camp stoves, pan-fried options are among the most popular. You can cook just about anything in a pan; some of the more common items include eggs, bacon, sausages and potatoes. Most meals you can cook on a grill can also be cooked via pan-based methods.

Fried fish is a fan favorite among anglers, and it can’t get any fresher than cooking it on the ice. Classic catch-and-cook is a rewarding way to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

On the grill

For those who prefer a grill, a ton of great meal options are available. If you can cook it on your home grill, you can likely cook it on your ice grill. Burgers, hot dogs, pork chops and chicken breasts are great options. Steaks, specifically venison steaks, are popular choices, especially for those who enjoy hunting as well.

The true fan-favorite, though, is brats. They’re super simple, great for feeding a large group, and a grilled brat is really hard to beat, especially after a cold day on the ice.

I can tell you from personal experience that there’s something quite special about cooking on the ice. A hot meal can do wonders, both mentally and physically, on a cold day. And it’s a great way to enhance the experience.

If you’re looking to get someone new involved in the sport, something as simple as a hot meal can brighten their day. Remember, it’s not always about the fishing. It’s okay to set down the rods occasionally and enjoy a nice, warm meal.

For more insight and tips for fishing throughout the year, check out the articles in every issue of MidWest Outdoors, available by subscribing on our website.