Often overlooked, ice fishing is one sport practiced in Colorado that rewards enthusiasts with a tasty meal. It involves drilling into the frozen surface of a lake, dropping in a hook and line, and then waiting for a catch. Here are five great spots to go near Colorado Springs.

Note: Note: Always check ice conditions before venturing onto the surface. For a complete list of reservoirs and the latest fishing reports, visit wildlife.state.co.us and click on “fishing.”

1. Eleven Mile State Park

4229 County Road 92, Lake George, parks.state.co.us/parks/elevenmile

This 3,400-acre reservoir south of Lake George in Park County is a frozen wasteland in winter, but below the thick ice teems trout, pike and salmon for your ice-fishing pleasure. Visit the well-stocked marina store for supplies or to rent gear.

2. Antero Reservoir

denverwater.org/recreation/antero

This reservoir owned by Denver Water, in the high desert of Park County, has tremendous views of the snow-capped Mosquito Range. It’s also incredibly exposed to the elements, so dress accordingly. The reservoir is known for its trout.

3. Manitou Lake

Pike National Forest, www.fs.usda.gov/psicc

About 5 miles north of Woodland Park, along Colorado Highway 67, this lake is small but a great spot for beginners and kids. And the views of Pikes Peak aren’t bad either.

4. Skaguay Reservoir

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, victorcolorado.com/fishing.htm

This 114-acre reservoir east of Victor in Teller County has good fishing for rainbow and brown trout, with an occasional large northern pike taken.

5. Monument Lake

This small lake west of Monument is nearer to town than the others, but anglers should exercise caution as ice can be thinner at lower elevations.