Ice Fishing Lake Trout in Fort Drum Waters
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Target lake trout through ice with expert guidanceAll fishing equipment and bait provided for guestsPrivate, familyfriendly trips in Fort Drum area
When winter locks down the lakes around Fort Drum, that's when the real action begins. Our guided ice fishing trips put you right on top of where the lake trout are holding, and trust me, these North Country waters produce some serious fish. Battle Fish Black River LLC has been running anglers out to the best ice fishing spots in Upstate New York, and we know exactly where these trout like to hang out when the ice gets thick. You'll get a fully private experience with all the gear you need, plus the local knowledge that makes the difference between a good day and a great day on the ice.
Your day starts early because lake trout are most active during low-light periods, and we want to be set up and fishing when they're hungry. I'll meet you at the access point and we'll walk out to our spot together - don't worry about hauling gear because I've got everything covered. We'll be fishing through the ice with tip-ups and jigging rods, targeting depths where the lake trout cruise for baitfish. The Fort Drum area lakes have excellent structure and drop-offs that hold fish all winter long. This is a private charter, so it's just you and me out there, which means we can move around and adjust our strategy based on what the fish are telling us. Whether you're brand new to ice fishing or you've been at it for years, I'll make sure you're comfortable and confident with the techniques we're using.
Lake trout fishing through the ice is all about getting down deep and staying there. We'll be using medium-heavy rods with sensitive tips so you can feel every tap and bump on the bottom. I provide all the rods, reels, tackle, and bait - usually we're running large minnows, smelt, or cut bait on tip-ups, and jigging with spoons and soft plastics on the active rods. The key is covering water and finding where the fish are staged. Lake trout don't move around as much as other species in winter, so once we find them, we can usually stay busy. I'll drill multiple holes and get several tip-ups out while we work the jigging rods nearby. The electronics are crucial - my fish finder helps us read the bottom structure and mark fish, so we're not just fishing blind. Safety is always the priority, and I check ice conditions constantly and carry all the necessary safety equipment.
Lake trout are the crown jewel of ice fishing in our area, and for good reason. These fish grow big in the cold, deep waters around Fort Drum - we're talking fish in the 3 to 8 pound range regularly, with the occasional double-digit fish that'll make your day. Lake trout are coldwater specialists, which means they're actually more active in winter than they are in summer when the surface water gets too warm. They'll be holding in 30 to 60 feet of water, cruising along drop-offs and humps where they can ambush baitfish. What makes them so fun to catch is their fight - they're strong, stubborn fish that don't give up easy. When you hook one through the ice, you'll feel every head shake and run. The best part is they're excellent eating, with firm, flaky meat that's perfect for the grill or smoker. Peak activity is usually early morning and late afternoon, but on overcast days they'll feed all day long. These fish are what ice fishing dreams are made of.
Ice fishing season in Upstate New York doesn't last forever, and the best fishing happens when conditions are just right. Our lake trout trips are designed to give you the best shot at success while keeping things safe and enjoyable. With all gear included and a fully private experience, you'll get personalized instruction and the kind of local knowledge that only comes from years on these waters. Whether you're looking to try ice fishing for the first time or you want to target lake trout specifically, this trip delivers. The Fort Drum area has some of the most productive ice fishing waters in the region, and lake trout are one of the most rewarding species to target. Don't wait too long to book - prime ice fishing conditions can be limited, and once the ice starts getting sketchy, the season's over. Get in touch with Battle Fish Black River LLC and let's get you set up for a day you'll be talking about all year.
Upstate New York