Write a commentThis winter has brought lake effect snow, cold temperatures and ice to Oswego County, making for great opportunities for outdoor recreation.
When it comes to ice fishing, anglers can chase their favorite species on a variety of waters in the county!
Some popular ice fishing waters in Oswego County include Oneida Lake in West Monroe and Constantia and North and South Sandy Ponds in Sandy Creek. Anglers can catch numerous types of fish on these waters this winter, such as panfish, northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch.
To ensure a safe and fun day on the ice, follow these DEC tips:
- Four inches of clear, black ice is generally safe if you’re venturing out on foot, however ice thickness can vary on every waterbody.
- Test the thickness of ice with an auger or ice spud at various spots as you move around.
- Be particularly cautious of areas with moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice buildup.
- The presence of snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be taken as evidence of safe ice conditions.
- Bait and tackle shops can be a great resource for information on current ice conditions. However, avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk.
- Carry ice safety picks (two handles with spike points) to help you get out of the water should you break through the ice.
Anyone planning to ice fish should consult the freshwater fishing regulations for specific waters as well as general ice fishing regulations.
For those looking for outdoor fun this weekend, the Sandy Pond Sportsmen’s Association is hosting its 49th annual Ice Fishing Derby! The event is held on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15 and 16 from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on North and South Sandy Ponds.
“This is the first time in a few years that the ice has been safe enough to be able to hold our Ice Fishing Derby, and we’re so excited to bring it back,” said Denise Schneider, president of the Sandy Pond Sportsmen’s Association. “The Sandy Pond Sportsmen’s Association is all about promoting sportsmanship and community, and we welcome all anglers to come out this weekend and enjoy a great event.”
The Ice Fishing Derby serves as a fundraiser for the Sandy Pond Sportsmen’s Association. While the entry fees are paid out to winners, all the money raised from raffles goes back to the club. A variety of items will be raffled off, donated by local businesses and members of the association.
“This year’s Ice Fishing Derby also coincides with New York State Free Fishing Days,” said Schneider. “On Feb. 15 and 16, anyone can freshwater fish in the state without a fishing license, so it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce fishing to a friend or family member.”
The registration fee for the event is $20 per adult aged 16 and older, and $5 for youth aged 15 and under. Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories for the adult and youth divisions. Registration can be submitted on Friday, Feb. 14 from 4 to 10 p.m. or on Saturday and Sunday from 6 to 10 a.m. at the Sandy Pond Sportsmen’s Association, located at 3201 Co. Rte. 15, Pulaski.
Along with fishing, attendees can enjoy coffee, hot cocoa and donuts in the mornings, and food will be available for purchase on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
For more details on the event, call the Sandy Pond Sportsmen’s Association at 315-387-6310 or visit its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072377653668.
For more information on ice fishing in New York State, visit the DEC’s website at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/ice-fishing. The DEC also offers instructions for beginner ice fishers at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/learn-to-fish/tips-skills/how-to-ice-fish.
To learn more about outdoor recreation in Oswego County, go to the Oswego County Tourism website at https://visitoswegocounty.com/.
