Insulated waterproof bibs, pants, and jackets are also a good idea. It’s good to have a small propane heater. They have stainless steel frames and built-in chairs with cup holders. I was disappointed to learn that the traditional ice shanties have been replaced by pop-up tents or ice shelters since they are much lighter. You can also learn about ice conditions at these establishments. The Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club is another source of information. The guides recommend natural bait like fat head minnows or large flies. You can buy gear for ice fishing, including tip-ups that are all ready to go, at The Crossroads in Chestertown or Schroon Lake Bait and Tackle. You will also need a fishing line that is made of braided nylon and coated with wax. Sometimes you can catch a fish that is too big to get through the hole. You will need tip-ups, fish traps, and a six-inch diameter ice auger to drill a hole. “If you fall in, it is paramount to stay calm," Val stressed. Fortunately, there was enough time for him to jump away from it and he only got his legs wet. Last year while Val was drilling a hole, the ice spider-webbed, bowed, and started to sink. “When you first fall in it takes about 10 seconds to realize what is going on," he said. Val has one that’s so small that it fits into a fanny pack. This includes an inflatable life jacket with a compressed CO2 cartridge and manual rip cord. I also learned that it is important to have the proper safety gear. Adirondack guides know where it is safest to fish on the ice," said Alan Sr. “It’s important to remember that ice freezes in the bays and in the main part of the lake at different times. Despite the recent icing, I saw that ice tents had already been set-up in the narrows. The ice had skimmed only a few days prior to our meeting and parts of the lake had frozen just the day before. emphasized that you need at least 6-inches of ice to support one person. The number one rule is to make smart decisions on the ice. There may be grubs on the meat in the summer, but not in the winter. Pan fish, like sunfish and yellow perch, are better to eat during the winter. It also has easy access, and a decent fishery that includes pike, pickerel, lake trout, salmon, and pan fish. He explained that the lake is well-known for ice fishing since it is a good size and gets decent ice during most winters. He receives a lot of requests for adventures on Schroon Lake. “There is a solid group of local fishermen who love to ice fish," said Jamie. “I enjoy ice fishing because it brings the family together," Alyssa said. According to her father, she has been fishing since she was born and has caught huge lake trout. You get away from civilization.”Īlyssa DeCesare is a senior at Schroon Lake Central School. Val emphasized that “having fun with your family and friends is an important part. He added, “Many local folks have more time-off to enjoy the winter weather since restaurants and other businesses reduce their hours after Labor Day." Ice fishing is not only about the fish. “Today it’s something to do during the winter and I love fishing so much," Val said. Ice fishing has a long tradition in Schroon Lake earlier generations fished and hunted to feed their families. These guides know how to enjoy the outdoors and work to provide their visitors with an unforgettable time. Their knowledge has been handed down through the generations and fine-tuned by years of personal experience in the woods and on the lake. I also had a conversation with Jamie Frasier, owner of Adirondack Mountain and Stream Guide Service. They operate Forever Wild Outfitters and Guide Service. I met with the DeCesare family including Alan Sr., Alan Jr., and nephew Val. I learned that there is more skill and equipment needed for fishing during winter than during the summer, when a rod and some worms can suffice. They were happy to answer my questions and had many interesting tales to share. I had the chance to interview local Adirondack guides who are experts in hunting and fishing. I’ve always wondered, who are these rugged individuals and why do they want to suffer like that? On these mornings, ice fishermen and women can be seen setting up their gear or waiting patiently for the flag on their tip-up to move. The winter in Schroon Lake brings Arctic cold and sometimes it feels like the air could crack.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |