Ice fishing is for everyone, not just the heartiest of anglers.
This year’s social distancing requirements are causing so many more people to take up ice fishing that shops in the area have been running out of live bait, said Tim Blodgett, owner of Saratoga Tackle & Archery in Schuylerville.
“I’ve definitely had some people come in who have never been ice fishing but finally have the time to do it. Fishing, archery, and hunting have all increased since lockdown began in the spring. People have found they have more time on their hands and want to do the activities that keep them away from the crowds indoors,” he said.
Tim’s been placing much larger orders to keep up with the burgeoning demand. He has bubbling tanks of live fathead minnows, pike shiners, suckers, and Rosie red,; as well as a stocked fridge, and shelves of supplies to fully equip your ice-fishing adventures.
Here are some of Tim’s tips on how to make ice-fishing an enjoyable activity for the whole family.
1. PLAN AHEAD.
Overdress and stay dry. Bring extra gloves, a towel, and a stool/bucket to sit on. Saratoga Tackle sells auger drills, items like skimmers to scoop ice chips out of the holes, and strap-on treads. Don’t forget toys for the kids. Food, drinks, and entertainment are all essential gear when kids come along.
Before you go: Check online for areas open to ice-fishing and what you might expect to catch. Different fish like different bait. Useful websites for fishing in Saratoga County include the Department of Environmental Conservation www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/32366.html, the Saratoga Lake Association’s Live Cam www.saratogalakecam.com, and the Saratoga Lake Protection and Improvement District slpid.org
Tim had a customer come in with pictures of a 35” pike he pulled out of Lake Lauderdale this season. He’s heard reports that Pickerel are biting all day in Moreau Lake, as well as some good perch and trout. At sun-up on Lake Lonely you can pull in some panfish or bluegills. Evenings on Saratoga Lake is when the Walleye bite.
2. TREAT THE LAKE BETTER THAN YOUR OWN PROPERTY.
Be aware that most of the property around lakes is private property. Don’t park in people’s yards or obstruct traffic. Be considerate and don’t leave a mess behind.
3. MAKE SPACE.
If it was open water and casting a line would hit your neighbor, your ice-fishing home base is too close. Keeping a 50-100’ radius around your camp is a good rule of thumb.
4. DON’T BE GREEDY.
Look for clues that a spot has seen some success. Tracks, holes, and weeds strewn about are all indications that someone has spent time at that spot. You might have luck there, too. Don’t worry, no one “owns” a spot out on the ice. Be mindful of the amount of real estate you take up however, and don’t take more fish than your limit.
5. BE CAUTIOUS.
If you’ve never gone ice fishing, start with a lake that you’re familiar with. Ice thickness varies, especially at current areas, known spring spots, around the shoreline, etc. Unless you know what you’re doing, don’t venture too far away from where other people have been.
Get Paid to Play: The 1st Annual Saratoga Springs Ducks Unlimited Ice Fishing Tournament will be held on Saratoga Lake on February 20. For more information, go to ducksunlimited.myeventscenter.com/event/1st-Annual-Saratoga-Springs-Du-Ice-Fishing-46554
