After another bitter cold, ice choked, breath taking frigid week, we are finally seeing some nice weather for the next few days.
The fishing pressure continues to be high as everyone is getting cabin fever. Mornings have been cold, but it hasn't stop anglers from hitting the water. The upper section of the river between Altmar and Pineville is producing the most action.
Suggested baits are blue & white eggs, the pink worm, beads, glo-bugs, estaz flies, hare's ear, stones and caddis in (size 8-12). Bright colors are a great attractor for fresh fish, while natural colors are better for darker in river fish.
I see more redds being dug each day as the spawning season is just about upon us. Start looking for fish to be holding just below the gravel areas as well as the heads and tails of the deep pools.
Phil & Steve had a great day this week as the bite was on and we picked all day. With a mix of steelhead and browns.
Steve went home on day two and John joined Phil for another beautiful day on the river. We worked real hard for them but ended up with a mixed handful at the end of the day. Typical March trips. The fish are there, but everyday is different. Just put your time in you will find a few.
March can be the best month for ice fishing but with that comes safety concerns. I am certain we will have great ice for sometime as there is close to 2 feet in many areas, but as things warm, clearly stay away from any tributary areas...the ice is never dependable when you have moving water. Also be cautious of large areas of wetness and water accumulated atop the ice.
Keeping this in mind, the ice fishing is quite good right now.
On Oneida Lake, both perch and walleye are biting at about mid-lake on the buoy line at 125, 123 and 121 in 28 to 32 feet of water.
The ice fishing on Sandy pond continues to be good with about 18 inches of good ice. Pike have been taking large shiners and the blue gills and crappies have been active as well.
The perch fishing on the pond, Henderson Harbor and Chaumont continues to be outstanding
Remember to stay safe, be respectful of others and put a few back for another day.
A Few Tips:
Remember fish have hard mouths, purchase a good hook file and keep those points sharp!
Remember to check your lines for nicks and use a good knot like a improved clinch or Palomar knot.
The sun in March can still be brutal and it reflects off the water. Always wear good sun block, everyday.
When releasing a fish never put your hands under the gill plate. Cradle them with one hand under the belly and the other with a firm grip around the tail.
Open Dates
March 11, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 25
April 1, 13, 20.
