Can you fish in the winter in New York?


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While most freshwater fish can be caught through the ice, only certain species are in season through the winter. Some popular species to target through the ice in New York: Yellow Perch. Northern Pike.

What month is best for ice fishing?

March is the best month of the winter for ice-fishing in most of the Ice Belt, but anglers are never sure how the ice conditions will impact access to the lakes.

Where can I go ice fishing in NY?

  • LAKE CHAMPLAIN.
  • SARATOGA LAKE.
  • FOURTH LAKE.
  • ST. LAWRENCE RIVER.
  • LAKE ONTARIO.
  • ONEIDA LAKE.
  • CAYUGA LAKE.
  • HONEOYE LAKE.

Is there a fishing season in NY?

Statewide Atlantic salmon regulations will now allow for a year-round open season; Ice fishing is permitted on all waters in New York unless specifically prohibited with the exception of Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Lewis, St.

Does time of day matter for ice fishing?

The best time of day to ice fish is during the first couple of hours after sunrise, and for about 2 hours both before and after sunset. These are the times when most fish are heading to their feeding grounds, and when most species are active.

What state is known for ice fishing?

Ice fishing in California? It might sound odd to you, but the Golden State has some pretty cool ice fishing spots. One of them is Silver Lake. Located at the base of Carson Mountain, it’s one of the most scenic ice fishing spots in the US.

Where can I fish in the winter in New York?

Anglers are drawn to New York waterways from Lake George to the Hudson River! The lower Niagara River offers one of the best winter trout fisheries on the continent. Start with Sodus Bay on Lake Ontario, a 3,000-acre smorgasbord of pike, perch, bluegills, and walleye.

What can I fish in the winter in New York?

Just fish something small slow and low. You can catch the following species throughout the winter: white perch, carp, pickerel, yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, and walleye. Not all of those species will feed at all times, and some need specific conditions. It’s always worthwhile though!

Do you need a license to ice fish in NY?

You need a fishing license if you are 16 years and older and fishing for: Freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups.

How many lines can you have ice fishing in NY?

This year, anglers are allowed seven fishing lines at once while ice fishing. This means that you can have a combination of tip-ups and jigging rods running at the same time, as long as there are only seven lines in the water.

How many tip-ups can you use in New York State ice fishing?

Under the new regulations, hand lines and tip-ups are both defined as “fishing lines” and anglers are only allowed to use no more than seven at a time. Thus, an angler is using tip-ups only, he or she can have up to 7 actively working at any one time.

Is walleye season open in NY?

Notable changes to statewide opening dates are: May 1 for walleye, northern pike, pickerel, and tiger muskellunge; June 1 for muskellunge; June 15 for black bass; and. Aligning special regulations with new season dates for these species.

How many rods can you fish with in NY?

Andrew Cuomo that allows anglers to have three rods, instead of two, in any body of freshwater in New York. Being able to use an additional pole will increase a fisherman’s chances of catching a fish.

Can you trout fish year round in NY?

While trout fishing is a year-round activity in New York State, catch and release ends on April 1 and anglers can begin to harvest the trout they catch until October 15.

What depth should I ice fish?

In my experience, I’ve found that most of the best ice-fishing action comes in water from 3-to-20 feet deep. I like to set up my traps so that they cover a variety of depths. Areas with rock piles, weed beds, or dramatic contours are all good spots.

Is it good to ice fish at night?

Less fishing pressure Most anglers are active during the day, so fishing at night will mean fewer anglers hovering over that hot brush pile or creek channel. The reduced the number of anglers crunching across the ice and the potential fish disturbance won’t hurt either.

What is the best weather for ice fishing?

Cloudy days are preferred by most ice anglers. Light levels are more subdued and fish feed more actively throughout the day. Match the clouds with a falling barometer and you’ll hopefully have yourself a good day of fishing.

Where is the best ice fishing in the world?

  • Lake of the Woods — Ontario, Manitoba, and Minnesota.
  • Lake Gogebic — Michigan.
  • Devil’s Lake — North Dakota.
  • Kangerlussuaq Fjord — Greenland.
  • Lake Simcoe — Ontario.
  • Lena River — Siberia, Russia.

Why do I love ice fishing?

I think part of what makes ice fishing so enjoyable is that it gives me another reason to get outside when it’s cold. I also find it appealing that I can get out to the middle of the lake without a boat! That, and I think fish taste better caught through the ice!

Is it cold enough to go ice fishing?

If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it is almost impossible to keep the hole open, so be sure to choose a day when the temperature is at or below freezing, but above zero.

Can you fish in December in New York?

There is no daily limit and the season is open all year.

Where is the best fishing in upstate New York?

Four Upstate New York waterways are among the nation’s best bass fishing spots of the decade, according to Bassmaster Magazine. The waterways, listed in the magazine’s recently released July/August issue, include Lake Erie, Lake Champlain, the St. Lawrence River and Oneida Lake.

Where is the best place to fish in NY?

Great Fish! New York’s Great Lakes waters include Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, the Niagara River and the St. Lawrence River. Fourteen of New York’s state record fish come from these waters or their tributaries, including a 41 lb.

What fish are in season in NY in January?

Steelhead Brown trout and lake trout all seem to collect up here for the winter. It is fast becoming the place to be for winter fisherman. For Ice fishing Try Sodus Bay northern pike, perch ,bluegill, and even a trout or two may be among your catch.

What is the fine for fishing without a license in NY?

A violation offense under New York State’s fishing or hunting laws carry a penalty varying from $0 to $250 and up to 15 days in jail.

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