2026 Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza Guide
Everything you need to know before you hit the ice, from tickets and transportation to fishing rules, prizes, and where to stay, so you can focus on having fun and making the most of this iconic winter event!
A Minnesota Winter Tradition
This year’s Ice Fishing Extravaganza will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 on Gull Lake’s Hole-in-the-Day Bay.
The Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza isn’t just an ice fishing contest, it’s a full-blown winter tradition that started in 1991, and is one of the largest charitable ice fishing events in the world. Every ticket supports local charities and community projects, making the Ice Fishing Extravaganza a feel-good event as well as a fun one.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply coming along for the fun, this guide will help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy the day!
GETTING THERE & PARKING TIPS
Parking/Shuttling
Free parking is available at Brainerd International Raceway (5523 Birchdale Rd). Buses will stop at various accesses within the tournament site.
Pro tip: Arrive early and wear your winter boots and gear before boarding the shuttle to save time.
Tickets, Licensing & Check-In
How to buy tickets:
- Online: Purchase tickets at https://www.icefishing.org/tickets/. Tickets purchased well in advance are mailed; tickets purchased closer to the event are held at Will Call at the contest site.
- Local outlets: Tickets may also be purchased at select Brainerd-area businesses (see official website for the most current list).
Pricing & deadlines:
- Contest tickets are typically $50 unless purchased during a special promotion.
- Tickets can be purchased from 8:00 AM-12:00 PM on the day of the contest. The contest begins promptly at noon.
- Tickets are non-refundable.
Fishing licenses:
- All participants must meet Minnesota fishing license requirements.
- Licenses are not sold on the ice, so purchase in advance.
Check-in & inspection:
- Participants may not enter the contest area before 8:00 AM
- Everyone must enter through an official inspection point.
- All bags, sleds, bait, buckets, and gear are subject to inspection.
Once on the ice, volunteers will help direct you to available fishing holes.
Pro-tip: Some prizes are tied to your ticket number, so keep it safe and accessible throughout the event.
What to Wear & Bring
Must-haves:
- Insulated boots with good traction
- Thermal layers (base layer, insulation, windproof outer layer)
- Warm hat, gloves, and hand warmers
- Sunglasses (sun glare off the ice is real!)
Nice-to-have items:
- Small bucket or sled to carry gear
- Chair or compact seat
- Snacks and water (check event rules on coolers)
Fishing Tips
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the Extravaganza, but understanding the format helps:
- All bait fish must be 4 inches or smaller.
- Keep your setup simple, basic jigs and minnows are popular choices.
- Only your heaviest fish counts toward contest prizes, but you may register multiple fish.
Weigh-in reminders:
- Fish must be brought to the weigh-in station immediately.
- Fish must be alive — the contest is live release.
- Be in the weigh-in line by 3:05 p.m.
Prizes, Announcements & Events
- The top 150 prizes are awarded based on fish weight and time registered.
- Prize announcements are made throughout the event and at the conclusion.
Random drawings:
- Random drawing tickets are separate from contest tickets.
- Winners of random drawings do not need to be present to win.
Beyond fishing, the event often includes:
- Sponsor tents and displays
- Food and beverage options nearby
- Youth or family-friendly activities depending on the year
Lodging & Where to Stay
Planning to make a weekend of it? Several area lodging partners offer Extravaganza-friendly accommodations and perks.
- Grand View Lodge offers an Ice Fishing Extravaganza package and features a guests-only hospitality tent at center ice.
- Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake also offers special Ice Fishing Extravaganza lodging packages.
- Visit Brainerd provides a free shuttle bus to and from the ice for participating hotels in Brainerd and Baxter — check with your hotel front desk for details.
Staying locally helps reduce travel stress and lets you enjoy the full weekend experience.
Your Checklist for a Great Day
- Arrive early and allow extra time for parking and inspection
- Dress warmer than you think you need to
- Keep your ticket visible and secure
- Follow volunteer and official instructions
- Leave the ice cleaner than you found it
- Have fun, this is a Minnesota bucket-list experience!
Whether this is your first time or your fifteenth, the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is a winter event you won’t forget.
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