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It’s no secret that fishing is a favorite activity among lake homeowners. Whether you enjoy cooking a dish with your latest catch or prefer to catch and release, something is exciting yet meditative about this popular hobby.
However, fewer lake dwellers have tried the winter version of this sport. But with the right equipment and guidance, ice fishing can be just as fun — if not more — than the traditional canoe setting. If you live on a northern lake and want to give ice fishing a try, check out this beginner’s guide!
To ice fish properly, you’ll need a different set of gear than for regular fishing. You’ll most definitely need to invest in an auger, a sled, an ice scoop, and a few jigs.
Unless you want to go old-school and use a spud bar or ice chisel to cut a hole in the ice, the most necessary piece of equipment is an auger. Fuel-powered and electric augers tend to work more quickly, while less expensive hand-powered augers take longer to drill holes. Either way, you’ll create a hole between 6 and 10 inches to use for fishing.
Besides this tool, a sled is necessary to transport gear from your car to the fishing hole, and the ice scoop keeps your fishing hole clear of slush. Although this gear can be a financial investment, it’s certainly possible to keep costs low and get started for around $200.
Because ice fishing is an extreme-weather sport, warm, dry clothing is essential. Remember to layer up as much as possible — you can always remove layers if you get too warm, but you can’t add more layers if you’ve left them behind. Also, don’t forget a personal flotation device (PFD) in case of an emergency.
Finally, and certainly not least, invest in some ice claws, also known as ice picks. These are handles made from wood or plastic with metal spiked tips that anchor into the ice so you can pull yourself out of the water if you fall in.
One of the biggest things that scares anglers away from ice fishing is the potential of falling through the ice. While this is a legitimate concern, it shouldn’t deter you from practicing this sport at all. Instead, there are some considerations to keep in mind.
First, according to anglr.com, you need at least four inches of clear, solid ice to go ice fishing. This ice type typically forms around a lake’s edges, which means you won’t need to sled too far. Once you’ve found a spot, it’s wise to drill a few test holes with your auger to see if fish are moving. If not, pick a new location!
It’s also important to choose your lake or reservoir wisely. Jim Root, angler and guest writer for Deeper Sonar’s blog, says to avoid rivers, streams, and spring-fed lakes, which often have weak ice. Instead, pick lakes with large fish populations or ponds deeper than 10 feet.
Finally, it’s time for the fun part — the actual process of ice fishing. At this stage, you have the possibility of catching trout, walleye, perch, and crappie, among others.
To catch these fish, you need to have good tools and techniques. While a traditional fishing rod and line can still work in a pinch, it’s worth investing in a jigging rod for ice fishing, which will allow you to catch fish at greater depths than a standard rod.
When ice fishing, keep in mind that jig color matters for catching fish. Just set up a simple trap with a sinker and minnow, then wait for the fish to come to you! If you don’t get any action for about an hour, it’s worth trying a different spot.
If you’re an angler who doesn’t mind extreme weather, ice fishing may be your perfect sport! We hope you reel in some good ones this winter.
This article was originally published on January 29, 2021.
Early mornings—or late mornings—at the lake involve more than just coffee. They offer a moment to relax, replenish, and revel in another day on the water. What better way to start than with breakfast breads that feel both comforting and creative? Whether you’re hosting friends in a rustic boathouse or feeding your family before a sunrise paddle, having a smorgasbord of freshly baked breakfast breads makes the kitchen feel and smell like home. Beyond ordinary muffins or toast—think bakery-style homemade breads that combine sweet and savory, traditional and modern.
Below are seven carefully chosen breakfast breads, each recipe reflecting a distinct flavor profile and technique. Yet all of them share a common thread—they deliver on warmth, texture, and taste. Whether you bake in your lake kitchen on a slow weekend or prep ahead for guests, these delectable recipes will make your morning feel intentional and memorable.
This coffee cake features a rich, tender base made with sour cream, layered with a warm cinnamon and walnut swirl, and finished with a crisp crumb. The walnuts lend a nutty crunch while the brown-sugar–cinnamon swirl brings cozy spice. The cake bakes for about 70 minutes, after 30 minutes prep, totaling roughly 1 hour 40 minutes. Its texture is moist and slightly dense, but the swirl cuts through with caramelized sweetness— perfect for slicing alongside a strong mug of coffee at your lake-house breakfast table. Visit Once Upon A Chef for the recipe.
These scones are similar to biscuits in method, with cold butter worked into flour and studded with juicy blueberries, then lifted by both sour and heavy creams. After chilling and baking (about 22 minutes), they emerge golden, with crisp edges and a tender, flaky interior. The citrus glaze—made with powdered sugar and fresh lemon or orange juice—adds brightness and balance to the berry richness. Total prep plus bake time is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. The flavor is sweet-tart and silky, ideal for a lakeside brunch when you want something elegant but effortless. Visit Southern Living for the recipe.
These are large, Southern-style biscuits—about the size of a cat’s head—made with buttermilk and a straightforward hand-rolled dough. The honey butter (sweet butter whipped with honey and a pinch of salt) gives each biscuit a lightly sweet glaze. Prep is quick, about 10 minutes, and they bake in 12–15 minutes, so you’re looking at about 25 minutes total. The flavor is tender, buttery, and slightly sweet, with just enough honey to make these a breakfast staple at the dock without being cloying. Visit Epicurious for the recipe.
These kolaches reflect the traditional Czech-style pastry that became iconic in Texas. The dough is soft and brioche-like, made with yeast, milk, butter, sugar, and eggs. After proofing and shaping, the kolaches bake warm and puffy, then can be filled or topped with fruit or sweet cheese. The process takes time—proofing plus bake time—but yields tender, lightly sweet rolls. Prep time is 30 minutes, and bake time is 10 minutes. The final flavor is mildly sweet, rich, and pillowy, perfect for a weekend when you want a pastry that fills the kitchen with aroma and nostalgia. Visit Taste of Home for the full instructions and recipe.
These muffins offer a bright and lively breakfast bread. Greek yogurt gives them moist density, while lemon zest and juice provide vibrant citrus flavor, and poppy seeds offer a delicate crunch. There’s also a simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Prep takes about 15 minutes, and the total time is 1 hour 25 minutes (including bake time). The result delivers soft, fluffy muffins with a tangy, sunny character—a refreshing contrast to richer baked goods, especially nice when you’re enjoying an alfresco lakeside brunch. Visit Delish for the recipe.
Simpler than traditional cinnamon rolls but just as indulgent, these decadent breakfast beauties never fail to please. Enriched with butter, sugar, orange juice, and zest, the dough is filled with citrusy-cinnamon sugar and then finished with a silky orange glaze. Total time is around 1 hour and 40 minutes (prep time is 1 hour, 30 minutes, and bake time is about 10 minutes). The flavor is buttery, citrus-bright, and comforting—perfect for a lazy morning at the lake—and your kitchen smells like sunshine. For the recipe, visit Sally’s Baking Addiction.
This savory quick bread offers a satisfying meal all in one loaf. The batter combines flour, butter, eggs, buttermilk, diced ham, and shredded Gruyère cheese. Once mixed and poured into a loaf pan, it bakes for about 45–55 minutes (after 15 minutes prep). The delicious resulting yields a bread that is moist and rich, with nutty cheese notes and salty ham. It’s ideal sliced warm or at room temperature — a hearty counterpoint to sweet breakfast breads, and excellent reheated later in the day or packed in a picnic basket on the boat. Visit Epicurious for the recipe.
From sweet to savory and delicate to hearty, each of these seven breakfast breads brings something different to your lake-house mornings. Whether you’re planning to bake before a sunrise paddle or prepare ahead for a celebratory weekend, these recipes allow you to match your bake with the mood of the morning. For more inspired recipe ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
Designing a lake home that endures changing tastes requires more than following trends—it’s about making thoughtful decisions. These decisions should be rooted in comfort, character, and long-term livability. For 2026, the most compelling trends emphasize warmth, craftsmanship, and a sense of grounded ease. These qualities align naturally with lake living across regions. Whether you own a cedar-wrapped cabin in the Upper East or a modern Texas waterfront home, these trends offer adaptable ways to refresh interiors without sacrificing longevity. They also avoid the overly polished “show home” effect. They lean into layered textures, personal meaning, and natural influences that complement shoreline settings.
This year’s direction in lake-home style blends historic references with contemporary silhouettes and durable materials. This mix supports high-use households, multi-generational gatherings, and year-round lifestyles. From cozy reading corners to soft, tactile kitchens, 2026 welcomes spaces that feel lived-in and deeply personal. Here are eight decor trends that bring depth, value, and enduring appeal to lake homes across the country.
Soft silhouettes—rounded sofas, barrel chairs, curved headboards, waterfall-edge coffee tables—balance the angular lines of traditional lake homes. Rooted in mid-century Scandinavian and 1970s biomorphic design, organic forms introduce quiet fluidity that mirrors shoreline topography. In modern Southwest (Texas) and California lake homes, curves help counteract rectilinear architecture. In Upper East or Mid-Atlantic cottages, they soften rustic beams and historic trim. Choose a curved sectional for a great room, a rounded entry console, or arched built-ins framing a fireplace. These shapes feel inviting and timeless rather than trendy. They work beautifully in conversation-focused layouts.
Warm neutrals, clay reds, ochres, russets, moss greens, and browned wood tones continue to replace cooler grays. These colors create enveloping spaces well-suited to lake living. Historically rooted in Arts & Crafts and early American cabin design, these palettes feel especially fitting for the Upper East, the Northern Great Lakes, and the Pacific Northwest. Organic tones echo the surrounding forests and rocky shorelines. In the Southeast and California lake regions, deeper earth tones pair beautifully with sun-washed textures and natural light. Incorporate warmth through limewashed walls, richly stained millwork, cocoa-colored upholstery, and layered rugs. This palette ages gracefully, hides wear, and provides a grounded backdrop for collected art and furnishings.
“Heritage maximalism” draws from English Country, American Federal, and mid-century cabin traditions. Layered prints, motifs, and storied objects define these styles. Pattern drenching, a technique with roots in 19th-century decorative arts, applies a single pattern to walls, drapery, bedding, and upholstery. This creates a cohesive, immersive look. It feels tailored for Mid-Atlantic, Upper East, and Northern Great Lakes homes with strong architectural bones. But it can also soften modern cabins in Texas, California, and the Pacific Northwest. Think botanical wallpapers in guest rooms, ticking-stripe drapes paired with plaid bedding, or a full-pattern powder room. This trend encourages showcasing heirlooms, vintage finds, and meaningful collections, lending authenticity instead of trend-driven novelty.
Hand-thrown ceramics, handwoven rugs, carved-wood stools, artisanal light fixtures, and custom textiles signal a shift away from mass-produced decor. The appeal lies in the longevity of craftsmanship and the personality that handmade objects bring to a home. This ethos aligns with lake living’s slower pace and regional craft traditions—from Shaker and Adirondack influences in the Upper East to Indigenous artistry in the Southwest. It also aligns with textile-forward makers in the Pacific Northwest and California. Add small-batch tiles to a bathroom, display handmade pottery in open kitchen shelving, or commission a local woodworker for a dining bench or entry mirror.
Durability and environmental responsibility guide many 2026 choices. Reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, recycled metal, wool, and organic cottons anchor spaces with longevity in mind. Statement stones—veined marbles, richly grained soapstone, and honed granite—bring drama without excess. Soapstone feels right at home in Northern Great Lakes and Northeast kitchens. Bold marble suits California and Texas homes with modern lines. Meanwhile, warm granites complement Southeast cottages. For outdoor rooms, consider permeable pavers, sustainably harvested decking, or natural stone fire pits. These materials age beautifully and support long-term value.
Layered lighting—ambient, task, and accent—creates depth and warmth across rooms. Glass pendants, sculptural sconces, mixed-metal table lamps, and undercabinet lighting help adapt interiors to changing daylight. This approach is especially useful in lake regions with long winters or bright summers. Reintroducing stained glass adds color and artistry without feeling outdated. It’s a nod to early 20th-century cabins and Craftsman cottages. Install a stained-glass transom in an Upper East entry, a jewel-toned pendant in a Mid-Atlantic stairwell, or a modern geometric sconce in a Pacific Northwest kitchen. The goal is glow, not glare—light that feels layered, intentional, and architectural.
Rather than oversized great rooms, 2026 design highlights intimate corners: hallway reading nooks, moody vestibules, hobby alcoves, window benches, and two-chair conversation pockets. This shift recalls the compartmentalized charm of historic lake cabins while accommodating modern multifunctional living. Carve out a micro-library beneath a staircase. Create a window-facing writing nook in a bedroom, or convert a wide hallway into a kids’ art corridor. This trend suits all regions. However, it is especially powerful in compact cabins in the Upper East and the Pacific Northwest, where square footage is at a premium.
The era of cold, all-white kitchens is fading, paving the way for “soft kitchens” layered with warmth and personality. Soft kitchens embrace wood grain, matte finishes, open shelving, warm metals, patina-friendly counters, and display-worthy ceramics. The look traces back to European country kitchens and modern hospitality design, where warmth equals welcome. Soapstone counters work beautifully in Northern regions, while warm oak cabinetry suits Southeast and California homes. Add sconces over shelving, vintage runners, handmade tile backsplashes, and island seating with comfortable profiles. The result is practical, intimate, and easy to evolve over time.
Lake homes thrive when their interiors reflect both place and personality. These 2026 trends prioritize depth, craftsmanship, and ease—qualities that respect the rhythm of lake living while offering enduring style. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or rethinking your entire retreat, these ideas bring warmth, intention, and longevity to any shoreline home. For more inspired ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Home Lifestyles.
As the year winds down and the air takes on that brisk sense of renewal at your lakeside retreat, New Year’s Eve offers the opportunity to craft a dinner that combines the warmth you crave with a touch of sparkle worthy of the turning year. In a lake-home setting—whether your porch looks out over misted water at dawn or you’re nestled in a modern cabin by the shore—the food should feel inviting, relaxed, and accessible. Yet, it should be memorable enough to mark the transition.
Think dishes you can prepare without undue stress, leveraging quality ingredients and straightforward techniques. This way, you’re able to engage with guests or settle in with your partner rather than be buried in the kitchen. At the same time, these dishes should carry a modest sense of occasion: a crusty loaf alongside a rich stew, a dish with seafood or duck. Something that feels hearty and soul-warming but isn’t fussy. With that in mind, here are seven options that strike that balance—each a celebratory dish from a reputable source, offering a distinct flavor profile.
For a truly elegant New Year’s Eve entrée, this classic Duck à l’Orange from vintage Gourmet (via Epicurious) delivers refined, celebratory energy. It does so without leaning too much on seasonal or Christmas-specific elements. The recipe balances crisp, golden duck with a bright, sophisticated orange sauce made from fresh citrus, stock, and a touch of caramelized sugar for depth. It feels festive in a timeless way—special enough for the holiday yet universally appropriate. The glossy finish and aromatic profile present beautifully on a buffet-style table alongside sparkling wine or Champagne cocktails. Moreover, because the duck roasts hands-off, hosts can maintain a relaxed flow while preparing other offerings. For prep time and roasting, you’ll need approximately 2 ¼ hours. Visit Epicurious for this classic recipe from Gourmet.
If a hearty soup is more your style, this tomato-based seafood stew brings haddock, shrimp, clams, and crabmeat into a rich, warm, and satisfying broth. It’s perfect for a lakeside winter evening. The flavor profile features bright brine from shellfish, depth from tomato and herbs, and the comfort of crusty bread to dip. Prep time is about 30 minutes, cook time around 1 hour 15 minutes. So, roughly 1 hour 45 minutes total for the full recipe. You can build the base ahead. Then finish the seafood closer to mealtime so the dish feels composed without juggling everything late in the evening. Visit Taste of Home for this satisfying and celebratory recipe.
Cornish hens make a perfect New Year’s Eve addition because they feel luxurious without being fussy. Their individual size adds a tailored, restaurant-quality touch. With this Food & Wine–style preparation, you can pair your roasted hens—seasoned simply with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and citrus—with a fragrant wild rice pilaf studded with toasted almonds, herbed mashed potatoes, or a salad tossed with mustard vinaigrette. Choose whatever sides suit you and your guests the best. You can also serve this with lightly charred broccolini drizzled with lemon to keep the plate bright and modern. The trio looks cohesive on a party table, offers upscale winter flavors without heaviness, and complements the other dishes without duplicating any ingredients or profiles. It’s an elevated yet accessible option that rounds out the holiday menu beautifully. Prep time is 20 minutes, with a total time of approximately 2 ¼ hours. Visit Food & Wine for roasting instructions.
For the hearty, low-stress main that still conveys effort and depth, this bean-and-sausage cassoulet is ideal. The dish features white beans and Italian sausage in a richly seasoned bean ragout—comforting, filling, and practically made for a crisp lakeside night. The flavor profile reveals creamy beans, savory sausage, herbs, and a gently baked top. Because it’s simpler than the fully traditional version, it’s manageable for a New Year’s Eve gathering. Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, and cook time is about 45 minutes. So plan for about an hour to complete. It lends itself to being assembled ahead of time and warmed, which is ideal for a relaxed evening. Visit Epicurious for the recipe.
Creamy Tomato Lobster Linguine with Garlic Breadcrumbs
This pasta recipe features lobster tails in a tomato-cream sauce with garlic, herbs, and crispy garlic breadcrumbs on top. The flavor profile highlights sweet lobster meat, bright tomato, and herb sauce with a rich cream underpinning. The garlic breadcrumbs bring delectable crunch and texture. Prep and cook time is around 30 minutes. Surprisingly versatile, this dish is also perfect in summer climates. But for your lake-home New Year’s Eve setting, it offers the elegance of lobster yet remains approachable. Visit Half-Baked Harvest for the recipe.
If you’re hosting an appetizers-only soiree, consider these gourmet nibbles as satisfying starters. This elegant Gougères with Smoked Salmon, Caviar, & Prosciutto leans a bit more toward “celebration” without all the effort if you’re pressed for time. Choux pastry puffs filled with Gruyère are topped with smoked salmon, prosciutto, or caviar as you like. The flavor mix highlights airy pastry, salty cheese, and smoked fish and meat for a luxe finish. You’ll need approximately 20 minutes of prep and 25-30 minutes of baking, for a total of 45-50 minutes. This works well for pre-assembling earlier in the day and heating just before guests arrive. This lets you kick off with something elegant but not overly fussy. For the recipe, visit Food & Wine.
For an offering that brings freshness, color, and texture to the menu, this assorted veggie tempura works well as a side or part of a shared platter. Add this to your arsenal of appetizers and serve it alongside Gougères with Smoked Salmon for your vegetarian guests. The dish features sweet potato slices, onion half-rings, bell pepper, green beans, and shiitake mushrooms. All are coated in batter and deep-fried until crisp. You can serve it with soy sauce or an array of dipping sauces. The flavor profile blends lightly sweet vegetables with crisp batter, and the dipping sauce brings a savory finish. Plan for 25 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, for a total of about 40 minutes. It’s a smart choice for a lake-home kitchen because you can prep your vegetables while another dish cooks. Fry just before serving for maximum crispness. Visit Allrecipes for the instructions.
For the lake-home host who wants a New Year’s Eve that feels simultaneously relaxed and elevated, the lineup above balances comfort and style. Each dish has been chosen with an eye toward manageable preparation, robust flavor, and a little bit of occasion — whether you’re toasting over the shoreline or dining indoors while the wind whistles outside. With these recipes in hand, you can settle into your lake-home kitchen with confidence, spend time with guests, and ring in the new year with good food, good company, and the right tone for a memorable evening. For more inspired recipe ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
The holidays are fast approaching, and- let’s be honest- we’re still scrambling to find gifts for friends and family. However, just because a gift is last-minute doesn’t mean it has to be impersonal and dull. Especially if you’re shopping for someone who loves the lake, there are plenty of fun, celebratory presents that they’ll love. So, if you’re shopping in a pinch and aren’t sure what to do, check out this list of lake-inspired gifts!
Over its many years of popularity, a Big Mouth Billy Bass mounted on the wall is now a staple of lake houses. And no, we’re not talking about a regular taxidermied fish. This entertaining vacation home accessory sings and moves its head when you press a red button at the bottom of the wall mount. Billy sings Bob Marley’s iconic hit “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” and Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive.” As you introduce each lake house guest to this singing sensation, the fun doesn’t end!
In our daily lives, we’re continually keeping an eye on the time, trying to meet deadlines, and generally attempting to be productive. But being on the lake presents a rare opportunity to throw time out the window and relax. These “This House Runs on Lake Time” clocks reflect this laid-back lifestyle through home decor. Instead of the traditional analog clock, the numbers are discarded, reminding everyone at home to step back and enjoy the lake. With this lake-inspired gift, charm takes precedence over functionality.
If your gift recipient typically puts up a Holiday tree every year, they’ll love a lake-themed ornament. The best part about this gift is that you can customize it to fit their personality. Does your lake-dwelling friend have a sense of humor and enjoy slightly cheesy, fundecor? If so, they’d love this ornament featuring Santa and his reindeer enjoying drinks on a pontoon boat. Or, if your gift recipient prefers something unique and one-of-a-kind, this stained-glass-style ornament features a lakeside landscape.
Your lake-dwelling friends will love this adorable gift from Zazzle to hang on their front porch. If your gift-planning isn’t too last-minute, you can even customize the flag with the coordinates of their lake house to add a personal touch. The striped design features a paddle insignia, evoking a classic, nautical look perfect for the lake. You can also print this same design onto a pillow, keychain, or koozie. Whichever gift you think will suit your lake-loving friend best!
Whether you have time to personalize it or not, your friend will appreciate a guest book for their lake house. It’s much more than just a coffee table book — it’s a chronicle of notes from anyone who’s enjoyed the home. Your friend will enjoy looking back on everyone’s messages (including yours) for years to come. Depending on your friend’s style, you can choose a sleek book with a textbook cover or a more casual spiral notebook. To make the gift more complete, include a nice pen or a set of fun, colorful pens like Muji. This way, guests will have their designated writing utensils to showcase their personal style.
We hope these lake-inspired gifts help your holiday shopping process this year!
This article was originally published on December 10, 2020.
Snowfall brings a sense of serenity to lake homes across the U.S., but it also introduces environmental challenges. Traditional salt-based deicers and gas-powered snow removal tools can harm nearby waterways—especially around lakes, where runoff quickly enters the ecosystem. Excess sodium and chloride can alter water chemistry, harm fish habitats, and degrade shorelines. For lake homeowners who prioritize sustainability, the goal is to manage snow effectively while preserving water quality and the surrounding landscape. Across diverse lake regions—from the snow-heavy Northern states to the milder climates of the Southeast and California—innovative methods and materials are reshaping how snow is managed. The following six eco-friendly approaches reduce environmental impact. These methods extend the longevity of outdoor materials and align with the mindful stewardship lake living requires.
In the Upper East and Northern lake regions, where heavy snowfalls are routine, pet-friendly brine solutions made from sugar beet byproducts are a sustainable way to reduce ice buildup. When mixed with salt brine, beet-based deicers like Beet-It Ice Melter lower the freezing point of water. This allows homeowners to use less salt overall, dramatically decreasing chloride runoff into lakes. Thus, it minimizes harm to fish and aquatic vegetation. While beet brine can sometimes stain light-colored concrete, homeowners can use diluted blends and apply them before snowfall. This option offers strong melting power at a lower ecological cost, making it ideal for colder lake climates.
Electric snow-melting mats are an excellent choice for the Mid-Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, and Northern lake regions. They are ideal for homeowners who want to avoid chemical runoff altogether. Products such as HeatTrak Heated Snow Melting Mats lay directly on walkways, decks, or stairs to prevent snow accumulation using low-voltage heat. These mats are energy-efficient and easy to deploy. They eliminate the need for salt or mechanical scraping, which can damage concrete and decking materials. They’re particularly effective for small, high-traffic areas like front steps or docks, providing safety and convenience while keeping nearby soil and water free from chemical contamination.
Gas-powered snow blowers release carbon emissions and oil residues that can wash into lake basins during thaws. For homeowners in Upper East, Northern, and Mid-Atlantic lake regions, switching to electric snow blowers like the EGO Power+ 56V model offers a quieter, cleaner alternative. Cordless models are ideal for driveways and walkways, producing zero direct emissions and significantly reducing maintenance. Even in California and the Pacific Northwest, where snowfall is sporadic, compact cordless snow shovels offer an efficient, battery-powered option for smaller clearings. This is achieved without the environmental toll of gasoline exhaust or fuel spills.
For Gulf lake regions or Southeastern areas where snow is rare but slippery ice can occur, traction materials like pea gravel or coarse sand are practical, eco-friendly solutions. These materials provide grip without contributing to chemical runoff or harming vegetation. Alfalfa meal, a natural fertilizer, can also add traction while enriching the soil as it breaks down. Because these materials are biodegradable and non-toxic, they are especially useful near garden borders, lakeshores, and flagstone paths. The key is to sweep up excess material after the thaw to prevent sediment from entering the lake water.
For lake properties in Northern and Upper East regions, where drifting snow can block driveways or bury docks, installing temporary snow fences or natural windbreaks can reduce accumulation. By controlling how snow drifts form, these structures limit the need for mechanical clearing or deicing agents. Homeowners can pair fencing with strategically planted evergreen shrubs or windbreak trees suited to their region. This further reduces snow buildup. This passive method uses nature’s own patterns to manage winter weather while protecting the shoreline ecosystem from chemical exposure.
Radiant Systems and Permeable Paving for Long-Term Solutions
In regions such as the Pacific Northwest and California lake areas, where snowfall is lighter, but freeze-thaw cycles can still cause surface damage, permeable pavers and radiant heating systems offer long-term sustainability. Porous surfaces allow snowmelt to drain naturally into the ground, filtering out impurities before they reach the lake. When combined with low-voltage radiant heating systems beneath driveways or patios, they create efficient melt zones. Consequently, they prevent ice buildup without the need for salt or mechanical clearing. Though these systems require an initial investment, they reduce annual maintenance costs, protect water quality, and enhance the architectural appeal of modern lake properties.
Across every U.S. lake region, the move toward sustainable snow removal reflects a broader environmental consciousness among homeowners. By shifting away from salt-heavy or fuel-dependent methods, lake property owners not only preserve the natural beauty of their surroundings but also extend the life of their driveways, decks, and landscapes. Whether through organic brine blends, renewable power tools, or passive solutions like windbreaks, each of these methods demonstrates how practical innovation can align with ecological stewardship. Snow management no longer has to come at the cost of water purity or shoreline health—it can be part of a balanced approach to sustainable lake living. For more home improvement ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
At a lake house, where the horizon stretches wide and you’ve just hosted a generous holiday dinner, the question of what to do with leftovers often feels too familiar. The answer? Repurpose yesterday’s feast into something new today—without repeating the same plate. With strategic tweaks, your day-two dishes can deliver fresh flavors, different textures, and a revived appetite. By transforming the rendered richness of turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce into fresh meals, you stay efficient yet elevated. These innovative dishes pay homage to the produce of your holiday kitchen while maintaining the relaxed vibe your lakeside setting demands. Below are seven distinct recipes that let you use leftover Thanksgiving ingredients to create inventive new dishes. You’ll avoid reruns of the big meal.
Stuffing Hash
Photo courtesy of Christopher Testani, Bon Appétit
This easy skillet recipe brings new life to leftover stuffing, turning it into a golden, crispy hash. It’s perfect for a relaxed post-holiday brunch at the lake. A drizzle of olive oil and a hot pan help the stuffing crisp along the edges. This keeps the center tender and flavorful. The herbs and savory notes from the original Thanksgiving meal deepen as they caramelize. This makes each bite more complex than the day before. A fried egg on top adds creamy richness, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the dish. The contrast between the crisp exterior, soft interior, and silky yolk captures the essence of comfort food without feeling repetitive. With just five minutes of prep and about eight minutes of cook time, it’s quick enough for a leisurely morning. Yet, it’s indulgent enough to impress guests staying the weekend. For the recipe, visit Garlic & Zest, which also offers swaps and variations.
Here, leftover turkey is reincarnated in a creamy risotto with mushrooms, broth (ideally turkey or chicken), Parmesan cheese, and arborio rice. The ingredients: leftover turkey meat, mushrooms (wild or button), onion or shallot, arborio rice, turkey stock, Parmesan, butter, and oil. On the flavor side, you get a deeply comforting mouth-feel. The earthy mushrooms, nutty cheese, and tender turkey are elevated compared to the original roast. Approximate time: about 10 minutes prep (chopping turkey and mushrooms, bringing stock to a simmer) plus about 25–30 minutes of risotto cooking, for a total of about 35–40 minutes. Visit Epicurious for the recipe.
Turning leftover cranberry sauce (or fresh cranberries) into a loaf bread makes for a sweet-and-tart offering. It doesn’t feel like more pie. Key ingredients: cranberries (or leftover sauce), orange zest and juice, flour, baking powder, sugar, and pecans. The flavor profile pivots to bright citrus, tart berries, nutty texture, and sweet bread. It feels lighter and more brunch-friendly than dessert. Prep takes about 15 minutes mixing, then 60 minutes bake time (total about 1 hr 15 mins). Visit Allrecipes for baking instructions.
This hearty soup uses leftover turkey (and optionally the bones for stock), carrots, celery, onion, turkey stock, and noodles or pasta. The flavor is wholly different from the holiday roast. It features an aromatic broth, tender turkey pieces, and warming vegetables—ideal for a slower-paced lakeside evening. Rough time estimate: about 10 minutes prep (chopping veggies). If making stock from bones, around 8 hours simmering is needed (or shorter if using pre-made stock). If you skip the full carcass stock, you can have it in 30–40 minutes by using cooked turkey meat and good-quality stock. For the recipe, visit The Endless Meal.
Here’s a fun repurpose: turn leftover mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes, turkey, cranberry sauce, and veggies into a skillet pizza with a crispy crust. Ingredients: pizza dough (store-bought or homemade), oil, mashed potatoes (or sweet potato mash), shredded turkey, cheese (mozzarella/Fontina, etc.), leftover veggies, cranberry sauce drizzle. Flavor becomes inventive: creamy potato base instead of tomato sauce. Turkey and veg are on top, while the sweet-tangy finish from cranberry enhances it further. Prep roughly 4–8 minutes to set the dough and toppings, then about 8–13 minutes of baking. Total time is around 12–15 minutes if the dough is ready (or longer if you make the dough). Visit Epicurious for the recipe.
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed or baked sweet potatoes from your casserole. Ingredients include about 1 cup leftover mashed sweet potatoes, two eggs, ½ cup milk, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, 1 Tbsp maple syrup, ¾ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp baking powder, a pinch of nutmeg, and melted butter. The flavor profile: richly sweet-potato-forward, subtly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. A hint of maple and brown sugar reinforces that warmth, while the pancake format offers a new texture for your lake-home breakfast or brunch. Approximate time: prep about 10 minutes, cook about 15 minutes (total ~25 minutes). Visit Feel Good Foodie for the recipe.
This salad is a fresh, cold preparation that turns leftover turkey—and stuffing—into a crisp, mixed-green dish with dried cranberries and pecans (or almonds). It is ideal for your lake-home entertaining. Key ingredients: cooked turkey (shredded or chunked), celery, parsley, dried cranberries (or leftover cranberry sauce lightly stirred in), chopped pecans, mayonnaise, and plain yogurt for the dressing. The flavor profile: savory turkey and stuffing crumbs interspersed with sweet-tart cranberries, crunchy nuts, crisp celery, and fresh herbs. The creamy dressing ties it all together, while the textural contrasts keep it lively. Prep is very efficient—about 15 minutes—and there’s no cook time since everything is pre-cooked. You’ll be done in about 15 minutes. Visit Savory with Soul for the recipe.
By approaching your Thanksgiving leftovers with intention—selecting dishes that completely change the format, texture, or speed of preparation—you can keep the holiday energy alive at your lake home without falling into repetition. For more inspired recipe ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
Caramelized Onion Gravy, Photo Courtesy of Julia Garland, Food52
Thanksgiving at the lake deserves more than the usual gravy—it calls for sauces that match your relaxed lakeside vibe yet bring something fresh to the table. A memorable gravy can be the one element that ties your holiday feast together. It can also express regional flavor and honor a modern home cook’s time constraints, all while delighting the senses. Whether you’re nestled in the Upper East lakes of New York, hosting in the Mid-Atlantic, or laid back in California lake country, you’ll want options that feel both inventive and doable. Below are seven savory gravy recipes, each with its own twist and regional nod.
We’ll start with the easiest one for home cooks with lots to do—in very little time. This make-ahead gravy uses butter and flour to create a roux, then adds chicken (or turkey) stock with sage, thyme, and garlic powder. It becomes a deeply comforting gravy that you can prepare up to 3 days in advance. It suits a Southeast lake setting—say a Georgia or Alabama lake house—where ease of prep is valued. You want that Southern-style comfort without fuss. The taste is warm, herb-laced, and silky —a classic that doesn’t feel outdated but effortless. With an active time of about 20 minutes and a total time near 30 minutes (excluding chilling), you get a pantry-friendly, stress-reducing sauce you can make ahead. For the recipe, visit Southern Living, which also offers variations including mushrooms, fresh herbs, and sherry.
This savory recipe emphasizes building a rich turkey stock from neck, liver, gizzard, and vegetables. You render the turkey fat (or use butter), then make a roux to finish the gravy, adding richness and depth. It’s ideally suited to an Upper East lake retreat—like New England or Upstate New York—where tradition matters. You might have the time and space to build stock. The flavor is deeply roasted, satisfying, and rooted in the classic idea of Thanksgiving gravy. You’ll spend about 1 hour roasting the stock ingredients, then about 20 minutes finishing the sauce (plus cooling/skimming time). Visit Food & Wine for the recipe.
This recipe is an excellent choice to suit guests with gluten restrictions. Instead of flour, it uses cornstarch (or another gluten-free thickener) to maintain a silky texture, while still allowing the turkey drippings or stock to shine. The taste is clean, smoothly rich—even satisfying in the way a flour-based gravy is—but appropriate for guests who need gluten-free options. With about 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cook time, it’s highly doable. Visit Queen of My Kitchen for the recipe.
This delicious rendition befits a more adventurous Thanksgiving table—think a Pacific Northwest lake home—where you might lean into smoked salmon, fresh herbs, oyster, or seafood influences. The gravy incorporates oyster sauce, sherry, and a beurre manié (butter-flour paste) technique for a silky, umami-rich finish. The roasted turkey drippings and pan fond combine with oyster sauce and thyme to deliver a savory, slightly salty-sweet complexity. With an active time of around 15 minutes and a total time of about 20 minutes, this option lets you pull off something elevated without getting bogged down. For the recipe, visit Food & Wine.
Decidedly daring, this booze-infused gravy brings a Northern lake-home twist—think New England or Upper East lake regions—where cranberry bogs thrive. Bourbon adds to the allure of this secret sauce, combined with turkey drippings or stock, butter, onions, and flour for thickening, and cranberry sauce for bright acidity and color. The flavor profile is rich and savory, thanks to the robust turkey base. It has a tangy sweetness from the cranberry and a subtle warmth from the whiskey. With 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes for cooking, this recipe takes about 15 minutes. Visit Mantitlement for the recipe.
This classic recipe deepens the Southern table gravies with turkey giblets, aromatics, and the savory pan drippings. It’s an ideal choice for any lake region where you want to lean into tradition with a twist. The star ingredients feature turkey giblets (heart, gizzard, neck), turkey broth, onions, carrots, celery, herbs, pan drippings, butter, and a flour-based roux. The result reveals a rich, poultry flavor with savory undertones that taste hearty and comforting. Approximate time includes simmering giblets for about 1 hour, then making a roux and finishing in about 10 minutes. Visit Southern Living for the recipe.
Rounding out the list, this innovative smoky-green-chile option combines roasted poblanos, turkey drippings or stock, and a butter/flour roux. Decidedly Southwestern with a Tex-Mex spin, it is especially fitting for Texas and California lake homes, where you might source fresh chiles from local farms or markets. The taste is peppery, gently smoky with medium heat, and very approachable alongside turkey and mashed potatoes. After roasting (10 minutes plus steaming), you’ll spend around 8 minutes making the gravy—roughly 18 minutes total. Visit Sunset for the recipe, which incorporates pan drippings from their Guajillo-Tamarind Turkey recipe.
From make-ahead ease to umami-rich innovation, you’ll be able to match a sauce to both your locale and your guests. Choose one, or layer two for variety—because in a lakeside setting, you’ve got the space and the calm to bring something thoughtful to the table. The gravy doesn’t just fill the plate—it completes the experience. For more inspired recipe ideas to live your best lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
Positioned on a plush, grassy swath of lakefront property in Pukwana Beach, Wisconsin, this extraordinary summer vacation home on Lake Winnebago is the happy place for a New York couple and their four young children. A Wisconsin native, the wife spent her childhood summers on this nostalgic expanse of waterfront land sprinkled with the homes of her parents and relatives. She and her husband sought to continue the family tradition and create their own getaway on this same stretch of beach. Their children would be the sixth generation to enjoy blissful summer vacations here.
“While all our projects share a common DNA, each of them is unique because we listen to our clients,” says Milwaukee architect Stephen Bruns, founder of Bruns Architecture, who was enlisted to take on the task. “The owners of this project are true lake people, and their familial connection with this shore goes back generations. Additionally, one of the owners is an interior designer with a delightfully minimal palette. The commission and collaboration were extra special. We were able to explore the idea of purity and distillation towards a wonderfully clean aesthetic. This house is experiential.”
The architect’s unique design—a pair of black gabled forms that “distill the idea of home” aligned flawlessly with the couple’s vision. A slightly shorter and narrower south volume includes a home office and family bedrooms, while the north volume holds the living room, a light-filled double-height kitchen, a guest room, and a loft. A transitional single-story volume containing the entrance hall and dining room elegantly weaves the home together, connecting all the spaces.
Well-Connected
Bruns aptly named the property the “Woven House” due to the central vestibule that gracefully connects the two massive gabled forms of the home. Additionally, he doubled the wall thicknesses to accentuate the form of the house. “Clad in synthetic slate tiles formulated from recycled rubber tires, the exterior provides a specular mosaic skin over the thick outlined forms,” explains the architect. “I love the way light reflects off the tiles, and this taut surface is kerfed at window and door openings to reveal a layered wrapper that encloses and protects the interior. Breaking free from the dark exterior, the white stucco chimney punctuates the structure as it creates a radiant landmark along the shore.”
Smooth Transition
Clad in white oak and minimalist accents, the narrow hallway in the central vestibule offers a graceful prelude to the serene spaces that await inside. “This low-slung, single-story form weaves through the taller silhouettes to create a series of dynamic interior and exterior spaces,” notes Bruns.
Airy Ascent
An elegant staircase outfitted in white oak risers and accented with a black railing appears to float weightlessly to the second story, where the children’s bedrooms offer spectacular views of the lake.
Clean Living
“While this family of six lives in New York, deep memories and extended familial connections make Wisconsin a second home,” says Bruns. “The design objective was to create a welcoming gathering place with a sophisticated sense of style while maximizing connections to the outdoors.”
In the living room, comfy white seating pieces and a nubby textured rug from Restoration Hardware keep the space soft and serene. The wall of sliding doors opens the room up to cooling lake breezes and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore.
“Perfectly imperfect cement plaster applied using Old-World methods and materials covers walls and ceilings,” adds Bruns, “while reclaimed white oak timbers create a rhythm of support across the gables.”
Unspoiled Island
Delightfully sparse yet highly functional, the kitchen is the nerve center of the home and one of the owner’s favorite spaces. A waterfall concrete island by Bomanite of Wisconsin, accented with black Kohler faucet hardware, is punctuated with bright white Bell pendants by Normann Copenhagen and Fiber counter stools by Muuto. The sleek Wolf cooktop and Sub-Zero refrigerator align with the kitchen’s clean, seamless aesthetic.
Minimalist Mystique
Spare and simple in its design, the dining room invites the natural scenery outside to become the focus of the décor. A skylight overhead provides shifting sunlight throughout the day, giving the space an ever-changing mood and ambiance. The long custom dining table accommodates up to 14 guests, and Danish-inspired wood chairs from J104 echo the minimalist aesthetic. Snowbound wall paint from Sherwin-Williams gives the space a soft, tranquil vibe.
“A restrained palette of materials within the house offers texture and explores variations of white with black accents to provide an elegant contrast and sense of drama,” Bruns explains. “The color gradations interplay with natural light to offer visual interest as the interior illumination varies throughout the day.”
Breathing Room
Just off the living room, a welcoming covered breezeway catches a breath of fresh air and captures stunning lake views. A wall-mounted TV, cozy cushioned sofa, and dining table offer endless entertaining options for family and guests.
White Noise
Dressed in white with minimal decorative accents, the primary bedroom offers the homeowners a tranquil escape from which to enjoy the expansive lake views outside. Its ground-level positioning allows the space to meld seamlessly with the landscape.
“Because of the owners’ personal affinity for the classic combination of black and white, the exterior and interior finish palette plays with sophisticated contrasts and uses the warmth of wood to infuse a deep sense of place within the lakeside setting,” Bruns explains.
Bold Beauty
The high-contrast black and white aesthetic is reiterated in the master bathroom with a generous double walk-in shower and a massive black vanity topped with a bright white sink. Natural wood accents, including the shower bench and towel stool, lend a complementary organic element.
Shoreline Appeal
Two bold gabled forms instill the fundamental vision of a home while the central vestibule quietly connects them. Bruns slightly rotated the two-story bedroom structure to widen views of the lake and harvest additional light. His unique angled orientation enhances the outdoor entertaining opportunities by increasing the available space and offering multiple functions for the owners’ lakeside gatherings. The dramatic glazing on the lakeside accentuates the bold triangular forms and visually connects the home to the beautiful blue waters of Lake Winnebago.
“One of my favorite aspects of this project was the opportunity we had to exploit conventional roof forms and geometry while using a clean, modern vocabulary,” says Bruns. “We distilled the shapes down to a typical child’s drawing of home, overstating the gable and erasing the overhangs. The resulting composition is immediately recognizable yet elevated to a sculptural level. Located on the eastern edge of Lake Winnebago, this dynamic structure is a beacon at the end of a narrow farm road that punctuates the shoreline.”
Interested in finding your place to enjoy the lake life? Explore Lake Homes Lifestyles for properties across the country and start living your lakeside dream.
