Winter Vacation Destination Spotlight: The Finger Lakes Region of New York

For those anglers who just can't wait for spring, a day of ice fishing in the Finger Lakes Region just might be the answer. Created during the last ice age, the Finger Lakes Region was formed by advancing and retreating ice sheets — some that were as much as 2 miles deep.

Unique to the world, these lakes are oriented from north to south and are roughly parallel to each other, the longest being near 40 miles long but never more than 3.5 miles wide. Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake are also among the deepest lakes in America, reaching depths well below sea level at 618 feet.

Typically, ice fishing anglers will target species such as yellow perch, sunfish, panfish,walleyes, lake trout, landlocked salmon, rainbow trout and brown trout. For first time anglers, a visit to the local bait and tackle shop is a must. Local proprietors will provide you with fishing reports, ice conditions, and outfit you with the proper equipment. From cutting through the ice with a spud or auger, to setting up your jigging pole or tip-up, it is in their interest to see that their customers have a safe and enjoyable day of fishing out on the ice.

The use of tip-ups is a common way of ice fishing. The tip-up is basically a spool on a stick holding a baited line suspended through a hole in the ice. When the bait, usually a minnow, is taken by a fish, the pull on the line releases a signal, such as a red flag.

Another common method of ice fishing is jigging. Jigging involves the use of a jigging rod or hand line and a small jigging spoon or lure which is often baited. The jig is designed to dart around in different directions when it is jerked up and down by the angler.

It is not unusual to see small villages of ice shacks, many of which are heated, out on the frozen lakes. In these fishing camps, anglers mingle amongst themselves and share their experiences of the day. Most camps are well stocked with food and outdoor grills, and everyone seems to enjoy their day on the ice even if they didn't catch any fish.

The number one priority when ice fishing is safe ice. The general rule for safety is a minimum of three to four inches of solid ice. Ice thickness is never uniform on any body of water, so use good judgement. Avoid areas of moving water, including where streams enter the lake, and around dams and spillways.

Ice Thickness Table - Ice Thickness Permissible Load:

2 inches - one person on foot

3 inches - group in single file

7.5 inches - one car (2 tons)

8 inches - light truck (2.5 tons)

10 inches - truck (3.5 tons)

12 inches - heavy truck (7-8 tons)

15 inches - 10 tons

20 inches - 25 tons

The number 2 priority when ice fishing is comfort.  Anglers need to be well prepared for safe ice fishing outings. Since most anglers do not move around much while ice fishing, proper clothing is critical. Dress warmly. Pay extra attention to your head, hands and feet. Dressing in layers is essential.

Finger Lakes Region accommodation information may be found by clicking here.