Ready for a real Adirondack winter experience? Join us for a private ice fishing charter on Lake George, where the scenery is stunning and the fish are biting. We'll set you up with everything you need to land some impressive catches through the ice, whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wielding an ice auger. Our 4-hour trip kicks off bright and early, giving you the best shot at hooking into some of Lake George's prized game fish.
We'll meet up at 6:00 AM sharp, just as the winter sun starts to peek over the mountains. Don't worry about bringing a bunch of gear - we've got you covered with ice fishing rods, tip-ups, bait, and even a portable shelter to keep you comfortable. You'll want to bundle up in your warmest winter clothes, though. We'll snowmobile or hike out to one of our favorite fishing spots, where I'll drill some holes and get you set up. Then it's time to drop lines and wait for that exciting moment when a flag pops up, signaling a fish on the line!
If you're new to ice fishing, don't sweat it. I'll show you the ropes, from how to bait your hook to the best way to land a fish through an 8-inch hole in the ice. We use a mix of techniques, from jigging with small lures to setting up tip-ups baited with live minnows. The key is patience and being ready to spring into action when a fish strikes. And hey, if you're having a blast and want to stay out longer, we can extend the trip for an extra fee - more time means more chances to catch the big one!
Lake George is home to some real trophy fish, and winter is prime time for hooking into them. We're talking about hefty lake trout that can push 20 pounds, feisty landlocked salmon that'll give you a run for your money, and tasty yellow perch that are perfect for a fish fry. The cold water concentrates these fish in certain areas, and I know just where to find them. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a monster trout come up through that ice hole!
Atlantic Salmon: These sleek predators are a favorite among Lake George anglers. In winter, they cruise the shallower areas of the lake, hunting for baitfish. Landlocked salmon in Lake George typically range from 2-5 pounds, but bigger ones are out there. They're known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water - which is quite a sight through an ice hole! The best time to target them is early morning or late afternoon when they're most active.
American Yellow Perch: Don't let their size fool you - yellow perch are some of the tastiest fish in the lake. These feisty little guys travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They average about 8-12 inches, but Lake George is known for producing some real jumbos. Perch are active all day long in the winter, making them a reliable target when other species are being finicky. Plus, they're a blast to catch on light tackle!
Lake Trout: The kings of Lake George, lake trout are the trophy many ice anglers are after. These deep-water dwellers move into shallower water during the winter months, making them more accessible to ice fishermen. Lake George 'lakers' can grow to impressive sizes, with fish over 15 pounds not uncommon. They're a challenge to catch, requiring patience and skill, but the reward of bringing one of these beauties up through the ice is hard to beat. Early morning and late evening are prime times for lake trout.
There's something special about ice fishing on Lake George. Maybe it's the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains reflecting on the frozen lake. Or perhaps it's the peaceful quiet, broken only by the occasional crack of the ice or the excited shout when someone hooks up. Whatever it is, folks who try it once often find themselves hooked (pun intended). And let's not forget the chance to catch some seriously impressive fish - nothing beats the story of "the big one" that came through the ice.
If you're looking for a unique winter adventure in the Adirondacks, our Lake George ice fishing charter is tough to beat. Whether you're an experienced angler or a complete newbie, you'll have a blast out on the ice. Remember, we only run these trips from December 1st to March 30th, and prime dates fill up fast. So don't wait - grab your warmest gear and book your spot now. Who knows? You might just land the catch of a lifetime and create some unforgettable winter memories in the process. See you on the ice!
American yellow perch might be small, but they're a blast to catch, especially through the ice. These guys usually run about 7-8 inches, with anything over a foot being a real trophy. You'll find them hanging around weed beds, submerged logs, and other structure, often in schools. That means when you find one, you've likely found a bunch. They're active all winter, making them a reliable target on our Lake George trips. Perch are loved for their tasty, white fillets – some folks call them the "poor man's walleye." To catch 'em, try small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms. Here's a local trick: if you see small perch, don't move on. The bigger ones are often underneath. Drop your bait past the little guys and jig it slowly. The fight might not be as epic as with a lake trout, but the steady action and great eating make perch a favorite for many of our guests.
Lake trout are the big boys of the char family, often hitting 15-40 pounds and stretching up to 3 feet long. These cold-water lovers hang out in the deep, oxygen-rich parts of Lake George. During winter, they'll suspend in the water column, making them perfect targets for ice fishing. Lakers are slow-growing and can live for decades, which adds to the thrill of landing one. They're not just about size though – their firm, orange flesh makes for some excellent eating. When you're out on the ice, try jigging with a Rapala Jigging Rap or a soft plastic swimbait. My local tip? On overcast days, work your lures a bit higher in the water column. These fish aren't fans of bright light, so they'll often come up to feed when it's gloomy out. It's a real rush when a big laker hits – they put up a serious fight that'll test your skills and your gear.
Atlantic salmon are the kings of Lake George, known for their acrobatic fights and silvery beauty. These fish typically run 8-12 pounds, though larger ones aren't uncommon. Unlike their Pacific cousins, Atlantics can spawn multiple times, which means you might hook into a real monster that's been growing for years. They prefer cooler, deeper waters but will move shallower to feed, especially in low-light conditions. Ice fishing for salmon is a unique challenge – they're less active than in open water, but when they hit, it's explosive. We usually target them with large minnows or jigging spoons that imitate baitfish. Here's a pro tip: vary your jigging speed and pause occasionally. Salmon often strike when the lure starts moving again after a pause. Landing an Atlantic through the ice is a real accomplishment, and their rich, pink flesh makes for some of the best eating you'll ever have. It's no wonder these fish are the highlight for many of our winter trips.