Ice fishing in the Adirondacks
As snow blankets the Adirondacks in white and cold temperatures creep across our deep lakes, the landscape is transformed into a frozen winter wonderland. Entire ice fishing communities pop up on lakes, rivers, and ponds – a sure sign that the fish are biting!
Enjoy fishing in Adirondacks year-round
From mid-November through mid-March, fish for northern pike, pickerel, tiger muskie and walleye on our frozen waterways. Two types of fishing lines are allowed on most of our Adirondacks lakes: hand lines and tip-ups. Through April 30, fish for several species of Adirondack fish, including bass, trout, landlocked salmon and crappie. Ice fishing is permitted on most lakes and rivers, with the exception of Indian River. Licensed guides offer added insight for the best fishing spots throughout the region.
Additional ice fishing species include:
- Yellow perch
- Splake
- Rock bass
- Largemouth bass
- Lake trout
- Carp
The New York State Department of Conservation does enforce special regulations for ice fishing on thirteen of Hamilton County's waterways, including:
- Blue Mountain Lake
- Forked Lake
- Fourth Lake
- Indian Lake
- Lake Abanakee
- Raquette Lake
Be the first one at the lake with a cold-weather Adirondack camping experience. For a complete list of fishing regulations and regulatory waterways, visit the DEC website. Drop a line and enjoy an ice fishing expedition in the Adirondacks!
Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK
The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.
