Freshwater Fishing, Fisheries Management, and Fishing Access News In This Issue: - That's a Wrap - 2021 Round Whitefish Egg Collection Complete
- Lake Champlain Ice Fishing Survey - Year 2 Underway
- The 2022 Ice Fishing Season - It's Almost Here!
That's a Wrap - 2021 Round Whitefish Egg Collection Complete 
In December, Bureau of Fisheries staff from DEC's Adirondack Fish Hatchery completed its annual egg collection for round whitefish. Based on the time of year they spawn, collecting them can be a bit of a challenge if ice starts to form. That wasn't the case this year, but staff braved the chilly waters to net 119 fish and collect a total of 77,000 eggs from Little Green and Cascade Ponds. When the round whitefish reach certain sizes, they'll be stocked next year in select waters in the Adirondacks as part of an experimental stocking program to restore populations of this endangered species. To learn more about round whitefish visit DEC's website.
Lake Champlain Ice Fishing Survey - Year 2 Underway 
For the second year, DEC Fisheries staff will be surveying anglers coming off the ice to collect data on target species, the number caught, and size. Participation in the program is voluntary but strongly encouraged. As an incentive to participate, anglers will be entered into a drawing for several ice fishing gear prizes, including a jet sled, jigging rod, rechargeable aerator, and bait bucket. The 2022 ice fishing survey will take place at four access points: Plattsburgh Boat Launch on Cumberland Bay; Willsboro Bay Boat Launch; Bulwagga Bay Campground; and South Bay Boat Launch. Having an understanding of what anglers are harvesting and targeting will help us continue to best manage the Lake Champlain fishery as one of the top fishing destinations in the state. A copy of the Lake Champlain Ice Fishing Creel Survey plan can be found on DEC's website (PDF). A summary of 2021 survey results will be available in early 2022.
The 2022 Ice Fishing Season - It's Almost Here!  Now that winter's officially here, anglers can look forward to "hard water" season here in New York. Although much of the state has yet to develop safe ice for fishing, it doesn't mean you can't start planning for your first trip out on the ice. DEC's website is a great source of information for beginner ice fishing tips, as well as waters open to ice fishing.
Ice Fishing in New York
I FISH NY Beginners Guide to Ice Fishing (PDF) Safety is key with any activity, so be sure to check the ice frequently as you venture out. A minimum of four inches of solid ice is the general rule for safely walking on the ice. Other safety tips: - Let someone know your ice fishing plans (when and where you're going).
- Carry a set of retractable ice safety picks around your neck should you break through the ice.
- Fish with a buddy.
- Avoid walking near moving/open water (Dock owners often put bubblers out to prevent ice from damaging their docks, so these areas can be unsafe.).
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