i have a 2004 yam bruin 350 4 by 4. i put a old set of trk v chains i cut down to size for her and she goes anywhere. i rarely put it in 4wd unless i hit a good drift. drove this w/ a 200lb loaded sled 17mi. opening day breaking trail in 16in. of snow. no problems. plenty of power and i bought her new for under$5000. awesome on gas too!
Morrocco Mole 4wd is really not necessary in your area, i think(not alot of snow). Keep away from Chinese made off brands. I have seen 2wd sport quads and 3 wheelers go out icefishing in snow up to 1 foot at times. I also know a guy in my area (CNY Snow belt) that plows a 1/4 mile drive way with a old Bruin 350.......... 2wd.
http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?action=search2If you think you are going to run into some extreme conditions then get a 4wd. Otherwise save some money for MORE Icefishing stuff.
Crappieloo