By Joshua Duvauchelle
Saratoga Lake Ice Fishing Tips
Saratoga Lake is a body of water found adjacent to the city of Saratoga Springs, over 180 miles north of
New York City. Various fish species can be found teeming in the lake's waters. Species include various bass, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as pike, carp, perch and sunfish. The lake's northern locale means it freezes over every winter. Don't let the frozen lake surface dissuade you from fishing, though. Employ ice fishing tips to try your luck at catching Saratoga's fish, even in the winter.
Fishing Seasons
During the winter, anglers may only catch certain fish species during certain months. This helps ensure the longevity of Saratoga Lake's fishing population. If fishing for tiger muskellunge, pickerel, northern pike or walley, you may only ice fish for them from the start of the winter fishing season until March 15. All other fish species are available until April 30.
Bag Limits
The county of Saratoga's conservation and fisheries department sets limits on certain types of fish depending on their current population size in order to encourage sustainable ice fishing. As of August 2009, there are special limits in place on all types of sunfish, including bluegill sunfish. These fish are limited to just 15 individual fish per angler. Contact the fisheries department before embarking on your ice fishing trip to determine whether any changes to these limits have been put in place.
Region 5 Fisheries
P.O. Box 296
Ray Brook, NY 12977
(518) 897-1333
Equipment Regulations
When ice fishing on Saratoga Lake, standard ice fishing equipment may be used. However, a maximum of two hand lines may be used at any time. A limit of five tip-ups is also enforced by the conservation department. When hand lines or tip-ups are in the water, the angler must be present. In addition, tip-ups must be clearly marked with the contact information of the angler.
Ice Shanties
Individuals who wish to camp on the public grounds at Saratoga Lake for longer than three consecutive days must obtain a permit (see Resources). Ice shanties are allowed on the ice if anglers wish to use them. If using such shanties, the structure must have exterior signage designating the owner's contact information and name. The shanties must be taken down and removed by March 15.
Safety
The cold weather on Saratoga Lake's open water can be harsh. Wear proper clothing and layers, such as long underwear and windproof jackets, to keep your core warm. Prevent frostbite by covering external extremities, such as hands and ears, with appropriate clothing. If warming your ice shanty with an indoor furnace or heater, check that there is adequate ventilation to remove exhaust fumes.
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
Photo Credits:
Skoric, sxc.hu
