IceShanty.com's Ice Fishing Community
New York => Ice Fishing New York => Topic started by: iceangler442 on Jan 30, 2014, 09:11 PM
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I haven't seen a BS thread for saratoga lake..SO..... I figured why not!
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Headed up to the launch tomorrow...im gonna throw up some tip-ups and hopefully get a walleye or a pike and jig for some perch ;D
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good luck :tipup:
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if anyone catches some walleyes post me some pics. just waiting to see some more toga eyes.
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I am hoping for perch jigging, hope to get out this weekend. I am new to the lake though so...
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Good luck guys. :icefish: :icefish: :icefish:
Mike
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I like this idea. Good luck at the launch today. Be prepared for some dink perch ;D
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Thanks guys and yes I know all about the dink perch unfortunately :P
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I plan on heading out tomorrow. Will be fishing the South end. Is there any snow on the ice or do I need the creepers?
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There's snow,and over 14" of ice.
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I am curious. I think the Walleye population in Saratoga does not jive with the numbers given by DEC for the stocking program. I know the survival rate is extremely low for fingerlings, but given the numbers and size of the lake in comparison to ohters it would seem the Walleye fishing would be better than the fair grading I would give it. Any opinions? Who authenticates the stocking?
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the walleye population has declined dramatically within the last 7 years.
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the walleye population has declined dramatically within the last 7 years.
Anybody know why? I can't stand the fact that there's no reliable hardwater walleye fishery inbetween Greene County (where I live) to Onieda lake. They're my absolute favorite eating fish and I have to work all ice season to find maybe a couple....
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no idea why, but the Northern pike population has declined big time and the largemouth bass size is down. All year long during the bass season, winning bags are 7-10lbs for 5 fish. Thats HORRID! 7 years ago you wouldnt be in the money if you didnt come in with a 20lb bag.
IMO, if all the dumb weed control stuff that goes on. Screwing up spawning grounds for the fish and baitfish. Without proper weed growth, the baitfish dont reproduce. Without them, well you know whats going on.
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I've noticed the same thing with Saratoga the past few years. Plenty of small pickerel/perch/crappies, but not much in the way of decent walleyes. I've explored many of my old honey holes without much change in walleye production. Used to also catch plenty of largemouth bass/pike through the ice, but they too seem to be much smaller. I have had better luck on Lake Lonely the past few years, but there aren't any walleyes to be found on Lake Lonely.
Only problem on Lake Lonely are the 4-wheelers/snowmobiles tearing up the walking trail and all the trash left by inconsiderate users. This keeps up and we are going to lose a great fishing area. I fill up a trash bag picking up along Union Ave. parking area and the trail into Lake Lonely almost each time I use that facility. WAKE UP USERS AND PROTECT OUR RESOURCE!
Eagle Ed
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I have been ice fishing 'Toga for over ten years and it sure isn't what it used to be. A limit of eyes was common, lots of jumbo perch and the occasional large pike. I also agree that the weed control program has effected the fishery. It's a case of property owners wanting a weed free waterfront versus the fisherman. Guess who pays the taxes to the Towns that surround the lake...hint...it's not the fisherman. As the property values have soared in recent years, so has the tax base. Afterall, who would want a quarter million dollar, half million dollar or more house on a weed choked lake? Just my opinion...
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no idea why, but the Northern pike population has declined big time and the largemouth bass size is down. All year long during the bass season, winning bags are 7-10lbs for 5 fish. Thats HORRID! 7 years ago you wouldnt be in the money if you didnt come in with a 20lb bag.
IMO, if all the dumb weed control stuff that goes on. Screwing up spawning grounds for the fish and baitfish. Without proper weed growth, the baitfish dont reproduce. Without them, well you know whats going on.
Gone are the halcyon days of needing a 4lb average just to get in the money....thanks to the weed eradication...thank you DEC and Saratoga Lake Association!
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Well this was my day at the launch.....I figured I could turn a negative into a positive and throw some of these guys on my tip ups but still nothing....It seems like lately the fishing hasn't been good wherever I go.
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Just a possible along with my earlier post. I had never fished for Crappie on Toga before three years ago. Man they are numerous in the spring-perhaps they are eating the young of other species.
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I won't give up on toga just yet
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I havent had much luck lately on Saratoga Lake myself...I must admit this is my first year Ice Fishing but my fish catching has decreased over the past 2 weeks.
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I havent had much luck lately on Saratoga Lake myself...I must admit this is my first year Ice Fishing but my fish catching has decreased over the past 2 weeks.
x2
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I've been jigging up decent perch in deep25fow by the hill.
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I've been jigging up decent perch in deep25fow by the hill.
By Fitch Rd?
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Well, tried jigging. All blue gill and one crappie. Not one perch! Some holes clear of weeds, and 5 feet over solid weed cover. About 8 feet of water. Perhaps I gotta get into deeper water for crappies/perch?
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Been up and down for me to. One sat got my limit by noon of walleyes with a 5 &a 4 lbr with a half bucket of perch next day 2 perch. Following weekend four of us 106 big perch sun 10. I'm just going to fish sat..lol
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I've been fishing Saratoga for 45 years and yes it has seen better days. I think the weed programs have been bad for the fish (they say the poisons they are using aren't toxic but they are removing the habitat!). My best years were around 1980, just before the weed programs got going for serious. In the early 1980's I had some evenings with 25 walleyes.
Good news, the panfish are thriving. All those dink perch will grow. And hint, hint, look around until you get away from the dinks. The keepers are still around, they just don't seem to be schooling up like the dinks. Yesterday we caught 15 keepers but had to be patient at each hole (they did not bite immediately) and be willing to move around.
I think the walleye population took a big hit the last couple of years due to early iceout and the meat hunters that took advantage to fish the mouth of the Kaydeross prior to the season closing. Did a lot of damage.
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Hopefully in a couple years all those dinks will be nice keepers ;D
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Well, we had ok luck for BlueGill, but no perch/crappie. We were in about 8 feet of water. Perhaps those fish are out deeper?
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Fished off Fitch rd yesterday. 5 bass flags and 1 large pickerel. Everyone is saying the same thing about toga. Very slow year.
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Hey buz23-- I have been around long enough to have fished the lake back in the 60's and early 70's as a kid (whenyou could keep 12 inchers). Moved away and just in last couple of years getting back on toga a few times coming from Albany.
Knwowing the old spots I was thinking Kaydeross in late season would make perfect sense. How hard is it hit, and are they really putting tha big a hurt on the overall walley fishing? In some ways it should be the plan to fish there to be successful. Also in my memory, is getting walleyes through the ice off Brown's beach, is that still an option in current
times?
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Big perch are still in there. Just have to find them. I fished deeper water than usual and pulled up some nice size perch. A lot of dinks too though.
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Fished off Fitch rd yesterday. 5 bass flags and 1 large pickerel. Everyone is saying the same thing about toga. Very slow year.
If you don't mind me asking what were you using for bait on the tip ups
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Been catching some nice perch but I also move like a mad man. I will just bring nothing but a sled with my auger, a small jig box and a jigging rod. I'll drill a hole, fish it for 5 minutes and if no fish then it move a few feet over and try again. If no fish after a while then I'll move 50-100 feet and try again. Never failed to find at least enough for a meal.
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Anybody think it will be safe enough to drive out on the ice off of fitch? (after this rain..)
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On the tip ups I was using pike shiners
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Anybody think it will be safe enough to drive out on the ice off of fitch? (after this rain..)
I think it will be fine. The ice is plenty thick but be careful if you don't know the lake. I see guys hauling out across the lake and just hope they know where the springs are.
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Hey buz23-- I have been around long enough to have fished the lake back in the 60's and early 70's as a kid (whenyou could keep 12 inchers). Moved away and just in last couple of years getting back on toga a few times coming from Albany.
Knwowing the old spots I was thinking Kaydeross in late season would make perfect sense. How hard is it hit, and are they really putting tha big a hurt on the overall walley fishing? In some ways it should be the plan to fish there to be successful. Also in my memory, is getting walleyes through the ice off Brown's beach, is that still an option in current
times?
The last couple years guys were limiting out multiple times by shore fishing at the mouth of the Kaydeross prior to the season closing. The closed season is supposed to protect the fish when they queued up for spawning. It used to be that the closed season was a little too early- i.e., you could still get in on the action after the May opening. With warmer climate and earlier ice out, the opposite is true - the closed season is too late. DEC needs to adjust their dates to get with the times.
I don't target walleyes anymore, prefer chasing perch. I've heard that they catch 'eyes in the South end of the lake (Browns Beach and beyond) but those who are successful stay out for several hours after dark. No personal experience with this in years, however. The only decent walleye I caught in recent years was in fairly shallow water when I went out from Fitch road before light one day a couple of years ago. I caught a sub-legal one jigging for perch this year (along with bass, rock bass, sunnies, gills, perch, and believe it or not a good sized bullhead).
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(http://i1277.photobucket.com/albums/y491/iceneck9292/20140122_153221_zps6df1237a.jpg)
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havent had much or a hard time findem ... theres years that are good and some bad. I tend to do pretty decent on toga just about every time... spend alot of time searchin tho iv been on this lake my whole life but to this day can still amaze me and challange me.. all the picture are from a diffrent day except the two bass. . Have akot more pica of diffrent days but trying to do this through the phone is tough... alls i can say to people is get a map and do ur research... i see the same thing every weekend everyone crowds the same places on that lake .. south end and fitch... theres the whole lake out there but people walk on and see a bunch of folk and think hey they must be getting into fish if theres this many people that close... cant do the same routine year in and year out.. water changes fish get older and smarter... good luck to u all and get out there before the ice is gone !
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I think the walleye population took a big hit the last couple of years due to early iceout and the meat hunters that took advantage to fish the mouth of the Kaydeross prior to the season closing. Did a lot of damage.
My buddies and I have discussed this very topic, especially after the warm winters we have had the past two years. It has been a free for all down at the Kay, a lot of guys taking way over there daily limits... taking 5 in the morning and another 5 at night... and worse there keeping the big breeder females... It has also lead to a lot more trash down there... but the way this years going, that may not be an issue... we should have ice through March 15th...
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I love saratoga been fishing it for years. Heres the deal IMO. All access areas are not very good most of the ice season, you really gotta have the drive to understand what these different species do in this lake. Aside from gills and bass which are much easier to pattern and find, the crappie/walleye guys who know what they are doing I can promise you are not on here to post pictures and let the whole community know the details lol. You gotta follow these fish on seasonal patterns, and punch lots a holes and do your home work. I love that this lake is challenging, the weed growth is a huge problem and has relocated seasonal schooling patterns of crappie and walleye. My 2 cents.
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I love saratoga been fishing it for years. Heres the deal IMO. All access areas are not very good most of the ice season, you really gotta have the drive to understand what these different species do in this lake. Aside from gills and bass which are much easier to pattern and find, the crappie/walleye guys who know what they are doing I can promise you are not on here to post pictures and let the whole community know the details lol. You gotta follow these fish on seasonal patterns, and punch lots a holes and do your home work. I love that this lake is challenging, the weed growth is a huge problem and has relocated seasonal schooling patterns of crappie and walleye. My 2 cents.
I agree on the access points...many of the "good" spots are a long walk from fitch road or the south end...you can't just walk out and join the crowd and expect to kill them every time. Saratoga isn't that big of a lake but it makes me wish I had a wheeler sometimes. Oh well, that is why I have a boat ;D
Also although few people really fish for them because not many like to eat them I've had some fantastic (100 fish) nights bullhead fishing out on the boat on open water in the spring and summer. Find a nice private spot and double anchor in 10-15 feet of water over a muddy bottom, throw out some cut bait on an ultralight set up and sit back and relax while you can because when they come in you will be busy.. I've caught several honest 16 inchers out of there before and I think there are bigger ones as well. I wouldn't be surprised if some kind of record is broken from out of there. Oh yeah, and trust me, a 16 inch bullhead can be pretty fun on 2 lb line. If you're stuck on shore the state launch can be ok as well but nothing beats finding a new spot.
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The bullhead in this amd ballston lake are awesome... great eating fish too and like you said on a 7 ' ultra light crappie set up its a fun fight
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Great posts- I was off Brown's today pretty slow. I am determined to figure this lake out.
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Went off of fitch today walked way out to the 28 feet range and still only a smallmouth bass and a couple dink perch and sunny. I had 5 tip-ups out....NOTHING....I also was giving each hole 5 minutes...If I didn't see anything I would move to the next hole...I moved all over that lake today and fished it hard and still...The results were awful AGAIN.
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Went off of fitch today walked way out to the 28 feet range and still only a smallmouth bass and a couple dink perch and sunny. I had 5 tip-ups out....NOTHING....I also was giving each hole 5 minutes...If I didn't see anything I would move to the next hole...I moved all over that lake today and fished it hard and still...The results were awful AGAIN.
I had a terrible day today too...a handful of dink perch. I ended up walking wayyyyyyy out of fitch road, twice as far as the last group and i walked over near the mouth of the kaydeross(but not too close). I was only out from 2 pm to 3:30 though. I blame the weather. ;D
Wait a few days and try again...it has been slow on lake george for a lot of people as well. The fish are moving around/tight lipped right now.
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I had a terrible day today too...a handful of dink perch. I ended up walking wayyyyyyy out of fitch road, twice as far as the last group and i walked over near the mouth of the kaydeross(but not too close). I was only out from 2 pm to 3:30 though. I blame the weather. ;D
Watch it near the Kaydeross. The bay right to the north of the creek mouth can have fish at times but it can also have some tremendous springs. I've drilled holes in that area that erupted with water from gas that had been building up under the ice.
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Watch it near the Kaydeross. The bay right to the north of the creek mouth can have fish at times but it can also have some tremendous springs. I've drilled holes in that area that erupted with water from gas that had been building up under the ice.
x2 its a mine feild over there with them..
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That's the only part of the lake I stay away from,to many blow holes for me. And there are new ones every year. Sat was a good day started at Fitch in the dark caught 0 left at 8 am went south with friends caught 40 perch kept 15 keepers,just jigged. Sun a lot slower started out gangbuster then you had to work for them the single fish would not bite if there were 2 you could get 1 to trigger. Ended up with 14 keepers sun.
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That's the only part of the lake I stay away from,to many blow holes for me. And there are new ones every year. Sat was a good day started at Fitch in the dark caught 0 left at 8 am went south with friends caught 40 perch kept 15 keepers,just jigged. Sun a lot slower started out gangbuster then you had to work for them the single fish would not bite if there were 2 you could get 1 to trigger. Ended up with 14 keepers sun.
nice the perch this year have been fussy... but my thought is i think we had such a good hatch this year in two years were going to have one hell of a perch year ... i was fishing in 16' and my graph was solid with perch all the way to 5 ' i was sight fishing at that poit but they were all small but i did see a few nice ones its just the little guys are more fierce and i found jiggin a larfer rap or a big pimple weeded out the small guys tho i was still cathing the dinks wich was crazy.. the spoons i was using were at least 2-3 times the size of em... got a trick for ya ill pm you
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Some people just cant admit there's bad days....I wish that everyone would just be honest.
been honest. Didnt say i havent had a bad day but at the same token iv only had one so fsr on THAT LAKE... found new spots that have just continualy produced. And theres the proof. Alot of people have a hard time beliveing someone having a good year.
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I love saratoga been fishing it for years. Heres the deal IMO. All access areas are not very good most of the ice season, you really gotta have the drive to understand what these different species do in this lake. Aside from gills and bass which are much easier to pattern and find, the crappie/walleye guys who know what they are doing I can promise you are not on here to post pictures and let the whole community know the details lol. You gotta follow these fish on seasonal patterns, and punch lots a holes and do your home work. I love that this lake is challenging, the weed growth is a huge problem and has relocated seasonal schooling patterns of crappie and walleye. My 2 cents.
100% couldn't agree more. SPOT ON!
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One of the best spots for eyes and crappies is walked right on pass by many people who figure that the area is garbage. Walleye and crappies are looking for the same structure and areas just have to find those areas on the lake. The 7 foot flat holds eyes and don't be afraid to fish near docks near drop offs for crappies. And I learned years ago don't post picks on here that give away your location. Sorry but there are 10000's of guest that are looking for a hand out.
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I have no doubt that their is some good eyes in that lake and I was catching some nice perch about a week ago but it all has stopped and the fishing has been terrible...not just for me for everyone.
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Not everyone. Pm sent
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i have been fishing at toga for years since i was a little kid and i almost gave it up because the only fish i like to catch is walleye and perch. i went there a few times this year to some of my good spots where the walleye used to be and nothing but i did go there one day and was catching big perch on tip ups and jigging and that was the only time and then went back a couple more times and only bought small perch but i want to find a better spot for the eyes before the season is over.
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no idea why, but the Northern pike population has declined big time and the largemouth bass size is down. All year long during the bass season, winning bags are 7-10lbs for 5 fish. Thats HORRID! 7 years ago you wouldnt be in the money if you didnt come in with a 20lb bag.
IMO, if all the dumb weed control stuff that goes on. Screwing up spawning grounds for the fish and baitfish. Without proper weed growth, the baitfish dont reproduce. Without them, well you know whats going on.
[/quote there are a lot of smaller bass, but I still think there is a good amount of larger bass in my opinion. People need tobstart keeping the 12 - 13 inches. I fish that lake a lot, tournaments included, spring through fall and see and catch a lot of nice fish. Last spring, trolling around the shallows, I saw a lot of pike that would make you think twice about swimming in that water. Mannings cove to be exact. I really think that lake is turning into a deep fishing lake, meaning most of the bigger, more mature fish, are moving deeper. Not saying that you can't find some in less than 10 ft. As for the walleye, last year, while fishing for bullhead off snake hill, I watch a guy come within 40 yards of us, catch a walleye. There are a lot of guys that target them all night, as there was that night. What they did to the weeds is horrible. I stopped shocking it which is a plus, unless theybstarted that .bs again. They need to get rid of those cutters!
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One of the best spots for eyes and crappies is walked right on pass by many people who figure that the area is garbage. Walleye and crappies are looking for the same structure and areas just have to find those areas on the lake. The 7 foot flat holds eyes and don't be afraid to fish near docks near drop offs for crappies. And I learned years ago don't post picks on here that give away your location. Sorry but there are 10000's of guest that are looking for a hand out.
I totally agree!
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I think OXYGEN is also very important on this lake being so small and weedy. Ice gets thick, weeds die, O2 goes way down and many species just don't eat as much due to metabolism slowing down. So this time of year it's expected to have slow days, and we forget about this I think. Really love the challenge here though, and I am determined to figure the dang walleye out. Just always so many places to fish and so little time!!!!!
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This a little off topic..but I forgot to tell you guys I saw an airplane land in mannings cove it was awesome ;D
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Hey SmokinSS interesting post. Shoot me a PM dude, I hear you talking about lakers all the time. Grew up there and willing to help you out if you are interested I too live in the Round lake area and would like to BS about that place too.
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I agree on the access points...many of the "good" spots are a long walk from fitch road or the south end...you can't just walk out and join the crowd and expect to kill them every time. Saratoga isn't that big of a lake but it makes me wish I had a wheeler sometimes. Oh well, that is why I have a boat ;D
Also although few people really fish for them because not many like to eat them I've had some fantastic (100 fish) nights bullhead fishing out on the boat on open water in the spring and summer. Find a nice private spot and double anchor in 10-15 feet of water over a muddy bottom, throw out some cut bait on an ultralight set up and sit back and relax while you can because when they come in you will be busy.. I've caught several honest 16 inchers out of there before and I think there are bigger ones as well. I wouldn't be surprised if some kind of record is broken from out of there. Oh yeah, and trust me, a 16 inch bullhead can be pretty fun on 2 lb line. If you're stuck on shore the state launch can be ok as well but nothing beats finding a new spot.
I fish for bullhead at the launch but mostly go out in the boat for them too. Anywhere I go though I like to catch some small rock bass or gills and cut them into guarterbsize chunks and use them for them bait was. It works really well.
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I think OXYGEN is also very important on this lake being so small and weedy. Ice gets thick, weeds die, O2 goes way down and many species just don't eat as much due to metabolism slowing down. So this time of year it's expected to have slow days, and we forget about this I think.
Not really an issue during most winters (might be this year), but in the summer, its a big problem. when I used to work at the Lake Lonely Boat Livery and fished tournies on toga, i always ran into a two person DEC crew taking water samples. Sometimes for short periods in August and early September, Saratoga would be almost completely oxygen deficient deeper than 15 feet, lake lonely sometimes got even worse, with anything deeper than 10 feet oxygen deficient.
Really love the challenge here though, and I am determined to figure the dang walleye out. Just always so many places to fish and so little time
thats the awesome part of the lake. all that structure! Dozens of weedy humps. underwater points rocky humps in the middle of the basin. I could go on. It takes weeks to cover every little part. you have obviously put some time in on Saratoga.
Ever have any luck jigging up the walleyes out there during the winter?
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hey guys wondering how much ice is on toga lake now thinking about going this weekend
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hey guys wondering how much ice is on toga lake now thinking about going this weekend
My buddy Nick at Saratoga Tackle just told me 14"-16". Even a few vehicles getting on the ice.
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thats good ;D hows the fishing ?
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Combsey- I have been bragging Toga to friends and have looked pretty bad. I was was away several years and my old spots are not what they were. From Albany so this is the lake I want to be good on. If your could PM me I would really
appreciate it.
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Red, the walleye I have caught have been on tip ups. I have done real well in some other local spots for eyes, but haven't put in the time on toga yet. I will keep you posted though. I really like to target pike and panfish mainly, not here for pike mainly LG.
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Anyone headed out on the lake tomorrow? and do you think it will be unsafe to be out their with all the snow were getting? will it make the ice weak?
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Anyone headed out on the lake tomorrow? and do you think it will be unsafe to be out their with all the snow were getting? will it make the ice weak?
no way on weakening the ice with over 12"........lots of snow tomorrow, only trouble will be driving home or tipup fishing and holes covering up with snow and/or losing sight of your tipups. ;D
With the big front coming thru tomorrow, get after'em and tight lines tomorrow, have fun in the snow. ;D
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All this snow is no fun for those of us that are walkers...especially dragging the sled!
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Can anyone tell me where the best place is to get access to the lake is?
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Theres fitch road on the north end u have to park on the ice due to plowing or the esiest is the boat launch also on the north end the has a parking lot. Or the marina on the south end but u have to pay to park
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Can anyone tell me where the best place is to get access to the lake is?
You can park on the ice on fitch road, at the state boat launch by saratoga tackle or on the other end of the lake there is a marina where you can pay to park. There is also a small hand launch park although I cant remember the name of it. With this snow I would just start at the state launch. If you're coming from 87 north then turn left off the highway at exit 14 and go straight for two miles or so until you drive over the lake and the boat launch is on the left hand side. You can't miss it. If coming from 87 south, go to exit 14 and also turn left and go straight for two miles.
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Thank you we will give the boat launch a shot and go from there.
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Anyone headed out on the lake tomorrow? and do you think it will be unsafe to be out their with all the snow were getting? will it make the ice weak?
lol... heck no, there's a lot of ice... now dragging your gear around is going to be tough
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So what's the deal with parking at the state launch? Do you have to pay to park or is this considered off season?
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So what's the deal with parking at the state launch? Do you have to pay to park or is this considered off season?
No pay this time of year.
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No sleds or 4 wheelers welcome at the state launch as far as I know
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So what's the deal with parking at the state launch? Do you have to pay to park or is this considered off season?
Interesting question actually. I believe it is free this time of year but the payment box thing is still there while it was taken away for the winter last year. I even got in a few early ice out crappie trips from the boat before they put it back last season.
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No sleds or 4 wheelers welcome at the state launch as far as I know
I've seen more than a few wheeler/sled trailers at the launch but it's one of those places where you may need to back down onto the ice and not drive in the lot at all if there is a cop around...silly rules imo but better safe than sorry.
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Well guys this is the day I've been waiting for on toga...
(http://i58.tinypic.com/xc0zdi.jpg)
(http://i61.tinypic.com/mll16f.jpg)
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Great job glad everything finally payed off ;D :icefish: :icefish:
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man those are some nice perch. Good job.
Question tho, is that a rock bass I see? People keep those things to eat??
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Great job on the perch.. Congratulations....
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Yes the rock bass are good eatin' and thanks guys..
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Congrats on a nice haul!
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Yes the rock bass are good eatin' and thanks guys..
really? Never heard of anyone eating them.
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ice angler nice job dude, seems like you really put your time in. So happy someone started this thread. I love saratoga, had some awesome days here. Also have had some days where I wanted to trade my rods in for golf clubs lol!
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iceangler442, those are some awesome perch...toga can be a gem to those putting in the time...I knew that the snowy front would be helpful for those to brave it. :thumbsup:
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Great job. Toga can be a good place to go
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Great day of fishing! :icefish: :icefish: :icefish:
Mike
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Thanks guys...and yeah the weather was rough and pulling that sled out there wasn't fun either but it was all worth it in the end.
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Nice pile o perch! Sure is nice when you find them. 'Toga can be a fickle lake...day-to-day...even hour-to-hour. Congrats!
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Yes the rock bass are good eatin' and thanks guys..
Darn right they are. Freshwater grouper is what I call em and they are as good as perch or crappie ;)
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This morning the boat launch was not plowed, too much snow for my vehicle and I wasn't sure if I could park elsewhere legally in the same area. Does anyone know if it is plowed out yet? I guess I never really paid attention to whether it was maintained after storms...
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Has there been alot of guys fishing off of fitch road any one know?
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I was out there wednesday and it was just me and another guy. Then again..it was storming out.
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I can remember going out there a few years ago, there would be 10-15 guys out there, everyone jigging up blue gills and a occasional crappie.
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I can remember going out there a few years ago, there would be 10-15 guys out there, everyone jigging up blue gills and a occasional crappie.
There are tons and tons of people out there on the weekends still, its just the storm that shuts people out.
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General heads up (machines especially) got wet today on the left side of the Kay -between springs and weed beds there are some hidden areas where you can easily go through. May not be visable if traveling
fast.
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General heads up (machines especially) got wet today on the left side of the Kay -between springs and weed beds there are some hidden areas where you can easily go through. May not be visable if traveling
fast.
Good advice...this snow will cover up some of the springs so be careful. General advisory for anyone new to ice fishing or saratoga lake since you need to be especially careful after a big snow storm because it can cover up the springs. If you go off fitch road you're pretty safe for a long ways out along with where the majority of the people are as there are no major cracks or anything out there at this point. At the state launch be careful around the docks as many have bubblers but they'll still skim up to the edges. Best to just not go too close to them. Also if you're walking under the bridge, try not to walk under the section closest to the boat launch as there are lots of bubblers by the marina as well. These things are obvious to the regulars but better safe than sorry. Either way, there is loads of good ice out there...quite a few vehicles before the storm out on the main lake as well but proceed at your own risk. Lastly, if you're exploring new areas by the mouth of the kay or mannings cove area you should never go alone at any time if you can help it.
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Did anyone go today? How'd ya do?
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Loads of small perch.other than that it was dead today..
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were you marking or catching the small perch id like to take my nephew out and have him catch fish.
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South end is loaded 10ft to 14 ft or the creek all the small ones you can handle lol.
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Plenty of perch just South of the 9P bridge past the Marina off the cove out about 25 yds. I got mine on tip-ups with small flatheads and jigging a #3 perch type Rapala. One in four was considered worth keeping. Also got a couple crappies, but too soon for them to start going into the cove for spawning.
Make sure you get out beyond the weed line outside of the cove.
Eagle Ed
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General heads up (machines especially) got wet today on the left side of the Kay -between springs and weed beds there are some hidden areas where you can easily go through. May not be visable if traveling
fast.
I would never go within a 1/2 mile of the mouth of the kaydeross when ice fishing. That area has taken many people. I was out there one evening when two people drowned when their snowmobiles went through. It was a horrible scene. From the mouth of the Kaydeross down all the way down to mannings cove is all springs too. Probably 15-20 small soft spots/open holes in that area.
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Anyone been getting any walleye on the lake?
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We got 4 last Sunday one close to 6 lbs.fished from 11 ft to 31 ft great pattern!!!
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Wow thats awesome glad to see someones getting them
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All this is good info and good luck to everyone, but remember " loose lips sink ships". Everyone likes to know the good spots and brag and share. But that's also how you lose your spots
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Just look for the giant red "X". I already have holes drilled.
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What marina? Point Breeze? I have never ice fished this lake but would love to since it is closer than Lake George. Would go for Perch and Crappies.
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What marina? Point Breeze? I have never ice fished this lake but would love to since it is closer than Lake George. Would go for Perch and Crappies.
See. Another angler fishing closer to home on a lake he wouldn't try if it wasn't posted. Nothing against you just a point we have been making on here
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Guys that have been fishing 'Toga...and have put in their time...know when and where to find fish. These same guys know that 'Toga can also be a classic "Ya should have been here yesterday" body of water.
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Guys that have been fishing 'Toga...and have put in their time...know when and where to find fish. These same guys know that 'Toga can also be a classic "Ya should have been here yesterday" body of water.
Thank You for the Info. I have been looking at this lake on my Nav app for a long time. Sounds like a good lake to fish. My buddies and I will be up this weekend. Where can we get access on the lake. We have 6 wheelers and a sled.
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It's got nothing to do with it. I just started ice fishing last year so when I go I usually go with people that invite me. I keep my boat docked up at toga in the open water seasons. The guy I go with usually goes to the king or sacandaga.
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Guys that have been fishing 'Toga...and have put in their time...know when and where to find fish. These same guys know that 'Toga can also be a classic "Ya should have been here yesterday" body of water.
made even worse now by the lack of eurasion milfoil. The damn fish are roving vagabonds!
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Guys that have been fishing 'Toga...and have put in their time...know when and where to find fish. These same guys know that 'Toga can also be a classic "Ya should have been here yesterday" body of water.
Absolutely.....they could be on fire one day and nothing for a week.
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Good point combsey. For those who don't know toga, this years bite is a lot slower than usual.... For most ;). Public access is limited and the close areas to it are usually over fished. But if you don't want to waste your time, no matter where you are fishing, you should probably pay attention to the barometer.
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It's about time you signed up ThisGuy...
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I find it ironic that DEC has announced a mute swan eradication program because the swans are destroying habitat (i.e. weeds).
Cutting weeds wasn't good enough on Saratoga, now they poison them! Come on DEC, be consistent.
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Fished the toga for the first time today through the ice. It was a little slow were I was. I did meet some great people today though. Started out in the morning with a broken recoil and thought that we would be done. Then we meat Ozzy he let us barrow his crank auger. By the time we got done he drilled our holes with his gas auger. Thank you Ozzy. U turn a bad day to a great day. No fish but still turn out to be good. There is still good people out there great to c that. You don't get that in most areas . Thank you
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I was out a few times since snow cover, seems the action is slower that when the ice was not covered. Is this just a slow day or would snow cover typically affect fish action?
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Was out yesterday afternoon and this morning hoping the storm would stir things up - one dink perch and a skinny bass - slow, slow, slow - to whomever made the fire on the ice on the plowed area out off Fitch - please clean up you mess
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Has anyone been out since the snow stopped this morning? I'm curious how tough it is drudging through the snow
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I was out for the first few hours (Thursday until about noon) and it was a real haul back to the truck. There was enough snow already that I needed to find snowmobile tracks to walk and pull my sled. On the way back you could hardly see the tracks, made for an exhausting half hour. I still need to move the skis closer together on my Smitty. Right now they won't quite fit in a snowmobile track and end up going through instead of over the deeper snow.
I got about 15" of new snow at my house (near but not on the lake). Going to make walking real tough. We need some warmer weather and then a freeze to change some of that snow to ice (not that we need more ice, but I can deal with thicker ice, if I can get to my spots).
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Fished the toga for the first time today through the ice. It was a little slow were I was. I did meet some great people today though. Started out in the morning with a broken recoil and thought that we would be done. Then we meat Ozzy he let us barrow his crank auger. By the time we got done he drilled our holes with his gas auger. Thank you Ozzy. U turn a bad day to a great day. No fish but still turn out to be good. There is still good people out there great to c that. You don't get that in most areas . Thank you
No problem guys its all about having fun and glad I could help. Sorry the fish weren't cooperating! Let me know when your coming up again we'll get on them :tipup:
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Hows everyone doing off of fitch?
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Not too many guys out there now. The snow is a real sob. Sat night I got one 12 inch perch. Sun morning, only ye ole pickerel. Think I'm gonna give toga a rest for a while. Deflates my ego going home empty handed anyway. Good luck guys
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Haha...don't feel to bad, three of us went to lake George on Sunday and we came home with nothing. Two of us didn't even get a bite. I'm hoping the warm weather will increase the fish activity.
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I'm heading up Saturday and I'm hoping someone can get a report either today or tomorrow on how much snow is on the ice still. Also if any wheelers are out if it's not too deep. Thanks!
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Not to many people more die hard fishing Toga then my crew but, put it this way we went to LG with zero knowledge of an area and caught more fish in one day than we did the last 6 times on Toga. We are done with that desert...
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I'm heading up Saturday and I'm hoping someone can get a report either today or tomorrow on how much snow is on the ice still. Also if any wheelers are out if it's not too deep. Thanks!
Next couple of days it's supposed to be warm with some rain which should melt some of that snow... I was going to swing by tomorrow afternoon to see what it looks like and I'll post conditions here after I do... either way it's going to be wet Saturday
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Not to many people more die hard fishing Toga then my crew but, put it this way we went to LG with zero knowledge of an area and caught more fish in one day than we did the last 6 times on Toga. We are done with that desert...
its not even fair to compare LG to saratoga! Completely different league's!
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Anyone see if toga has iced over hard again after this rain! :o
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Yes Saratoga is a bad fishery so go to lake George. There are only small perch and next to no eyes in toga Not worth anyone's time. Try again next year
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Anyone see if toga has iced over hard again after this rain! :o
It's real wet and slushy out there
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Funny thing is I've been to lake george twice the first time i caught 10 dink perch at the end of a long day out there and then second time we didn't catch one thing...NOTHING
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(http://i60.tinypic.com/2qbxg0x.jpg)
Ive been catching some nice perch in this spot I found out on the lake...Ive done a lot of moving around and searching..this is the best spot I could find and yesterday i actually caught my PB at 13 1/2"...Yesterday was a slow day but still all over 8 inch... (by the way he gave quite a fight on 2 pound test and a real light action pole ;D )
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Nice perch. I'll be out there Monday afternoon.
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How much snow and slush was out there ice angler?
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Nice looking perch...Great catch! :icefish: :icefish: :icefish:
Mike
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How much snow and slush was out there ice angler?
. About 6" and 3" of water under it.
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Thanks guys and I would have to agree at least 6in of slush with 3 inch of water under that..The walk out at about 8:30am wasn't bad because my trail had been packed down and froze overnight but on the way back at about 1:30pm was a mess...Unfortunately it might be like this for quite a few days maybe a couple weeks.
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With another cold spell coming the top layer will firm up. Should be much easier walking by later in the week and next weekend.
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Good point combsey. For those who don't know toga, this years bite is a lot slower than usual.... For most ;). Public access is limited and the close areas to it are usually over fished. But if you don't want to waste your time, no matter where you are fishing, you should probably pay attention to the barometer.
Slow? yeah right, I've caught more dink perch than I can ever remember catching lol ;D ;D
But seriously, it is an off year...I've caught a few decent fish but haven't had any real great days yet like last year.
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Went out today just off the marina South of the 9P bridge and had no luck at all jigging or with my tip-ups using flatheads. Every step was an adventure cutting into 8" of slush and the water filling in every step. First time I've ever fished that area with no flags or hits on my tip-ups and I drilled over 20 holes. Quite a bit of wind, but nice temperature. Spoke to several guys in the parking lot and they had the same luck.
Eagle Ed
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The cold this week will lock up the top of the lake and we should be able to walk on top just fine. Action where I was today was good until the sun came out about 11:00
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Had an awesome day on the lake today. Caught my limit of gills all good size and let another half dozen dinks go. Also got a nice crappie and a nice perch. Released a dozen bucketmouths all keeper size. Caught everything jigging on a lindy toad ultra light setup.
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Caught a lot of bass and dink perch yesterday, just a few gills - all on a white w/orange dots Catty teardrop - maybe it's getting better
A WARNING - someone chopped out a 16" hole off Fitch - about 300 yds out on the east side of the north/south tracks - I don't know why anyone would do this because there is nothing in Toga that BIG and the only thing that will come of this is someone or something going in it and getting injured - I seriously question the thought process or if there was one!!!
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WOW I wanna try to get on Toga Lake now after seeing that PIG of a perch. NICE!!! Jake's Fishing For a Cure tournament is Saturday March 1st on Million Dollar Beach, Lake GEorge...Great prizes, Great people, Even BETTER cause!!! Sign up at Fish307 in advance!!! SEE YOU THERE!!!
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Hey chessieman, are you sure some one chopped out a hole that big? During that warm spell water will flow into the lake through open holes. I was fishing through a few holes yesterday that were about 15 inches wide on the main ice. I had to stomp through the top layer to get to them, which made it look chopped out. Also not to start trouble, but there are carp in toga that you couldn't get through a 20 inch hole.
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Caught a lot of bass and dink perch yesterday, just a few gills - all on a white w/orange dots Catty teardrop - maybe it's getting better
A WARNING - someone chopped out a 16" hole off Fitch - about 300 yds out on the east side of the north/south tracks - I don't know why anyone would do this because there is nothing in Toga that BIG and the only thing that will come of this is someone or something going in it and getting injured - I seriously question the thought process or if there was one!!!
i seen people do that on big bay and i honestly think it was to hurt someone ...i marked the holes so no one fell in
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Hey chessieman, are you sure some one chopped out a hole that big? During that warm spell water will flow into the lake through open holes. I was fishing through a few holes yesterday that were about 15 inches wide on the main ice. I had to stomp through the top layer to get to them, which made it look chopped out. Also not to start trouble, but there are carp in toga that you couldn't get through a 20 inch hole.
Yep, one of those holes tried to eat me... Good thing you had an extra pair of socks or my foot would have froze...lol
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Went out today just off the marina South of the 9P bridge and had no luck at all jigging or with my tip-ups using flatheads. Every step was an adventure cutting into 8" of slush and the water filling in every step. First time I've ever fished that area with no flags or hits on my tip-ups and I drilled over 20 holes. Quite a bit of wind, but nice temperature. Spoke to several guys in the parking lot and they had the same luck.
Eagle Ed
Ed,
I went out late afternoon and jigged in your holes (10", right?). Nothing biting, nothing on the scope. One of my old 4" holes had a lot of little stuff around in about 13 FOW but I couldn't even get a bite. Waiting for it to firm up so I can do some walking.
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The holes resulting from the water draining can be very dangerous...during January we had a big rainstorm and I had gone fishing a couple days later..from all this rain it caused these holes to form....we had came across these all over the lake...I was very surprised that these had formed when there was 8 inches of ice.. There was only about a 3/4in of ice covering this big hole...If I wasn't paying attention I could have easily fallen through. (Thats my 4 inch auger I use for panfish)
(http://i61.tinypic.com/15g9kpd.png)
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You have to very observant when your on the Ice.
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X1
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Got caught in a snow squall 1 mile from my truck today. A long upwind walk back. Fishing was crummy - didn't catch much (1 each 5 species) and marked few fish. Gave up at 10am when the wind got unbearable - my rod was shaking so much I couldn't detect a bite.
Good and bad news. Its locked up tight again. But slippery and 10 more turns on the auger to get through (was 30 now 40).
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Im a little confused about 30 or 40? What are you referring to?
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Im a little confused about 30 or 40? What are you referring to?
how many turns on the Hand Auger :unsure: :unsure: :unsure: :unsure:
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30 to 40 turns on the hand auger....must be 15" to 20" of ice. :o
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Sorry guys I'm a little tired tonight haha
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Sorry guys I'm a little tired tonight haha
lol, I would be too after hand drilling thru 15"-20" of ice. ;D
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I hope the first hole this weekend is a good one ;D
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lol, I would be too after hand drilling thru 15"-20" of ice. ;D
Its not bad. 4 (4.5"?) fin bore II. I figure about a half inch a turn. They only trouble is you have to keep it vertical otherwise its tough to see your jig with the sounder.
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Bad morning. My buddy went through the ice between riley cove and snake hill. He is ok just cold. Didnt know there were springs in that area, be careful out there.
(http://i1365.photobucket.com/albums/r748/gregger300/dave_hole_zps81ffe32d.jpg) (http://s1365.photobucket.com/user/gregger300/media/dave_hole_zps81ffe32d.jpg.html)
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Bad morning. My buddy went through the ice between riley cove and snake hill. He is ok just cold. Didnt know there were springs in that area, be careful out there.
(http://i1365.photobucket.com/albums/r748/gregger300/dave_hole_zps81ffe32d.jpg) (http://s1365.photobucket.com/user/gregger300/media/dave_hole_zps81ffe32d.jpg.html)
Wow ..... glad he is ok!
I was cold just taking the dog out to the bathroom .... i couldn't imagine swimming today :o
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Lol! You guys be careful. There are springs all over that part of the lake. Some of them can swallow a car. It will get worse as the season goes on. When it's cold like this you won't be able to see them. Don't walk around by yourself if you don't know the lake, that's for sure. Last year I marked the bigger hole. Didn't get that far this year.
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I was under the impression that the springs were mostly in fairly shallow water and once you got out in deeper water you were pretty safe. Is that spring hole between riley's cove and snake hill out in the middle??? If so I may have to rethink.
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They are out as far as 12-15 fow. Which is out pretty far. That whole side of the lake is a mine field if it's unfamiliar to you.
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Went out this morning from 7AM till Noon. Fished middle of lake off Manning's then moved closer to into Manning's. 20" to 24" ice. Got 1 walleye jigging. Lots of lookers but you really had to work hard to get them to come up off the bottom. When the South wind kicked up, even the lookers were gone. Quite a few people driving on the ice (including us) which I don't recommend unless you really know the lake and the locations of the usual spring areas. Also keep you eyes out for thin areas from the drain holes that formed as the lake drained during the last warm spell. Even though there is more ice than we've had in years...proceed with caution.
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Is it a minefield from Fitch Rd to Manning Cove via ATV?..wanted to try it there tomorrow but wasn't unaware of the springs till now
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They are out as far as 12-15 fow. Which is out pretty far. That whole side of the lake is a mine field if it's unfamiliar to you.
We had fished that spot once before and from that experience I would guess we were probably in 15 FOW. The drop off to deeper water is out toward the center of the lake. Crazy thing is that day we were checked by ENCON and he was on a quad. Snowmobile tracks are everwhere out there as well. Guess you gotta have a little luck on your side. I'll be saving that area for soft water!
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Saratoga definitely has sketchy spots, even with thick ice. Last year we were checked by DEC, he was walking the whole lake checking guys. I asked why he doesn't use quad or sled. He said he barely feels safe walking it. He also asked us if we knew the name of guy in a blue truck that has been driving all over the lake. I said no why? He said they want to know his name so when they pull his truck and body from the bottom of the lake the can ID him quicker. LOL. That's all I needed to hear to never even think about driving on the ice on Saratoga.
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I fish toga a lot and I still found one of the soft spots. I was drilling 15 inches of ice and did a half circle around the area but took a stupid pill and thought I could cut across no problem. So when I got home later that night I explained to the women why I always keep a change of cloths and something to dry off with in the truck at all times.
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I fish toga a lot and I still found one of the soft spots. I was drilling 15 inches of ice and did a half circle around the area but took a stupid pill and thought I could cut across no problem. So when I got home later that night I explained to the women why I always keep a change of cloths and something to dry off with in the truck at all times.
Combsey, I'm confused' thought your change of clothes were bell bottoms and a tied dye shirt...Just joshing! :icefish: :icefish: :icefish:
Mike
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Lakr can be deadly.. new springs every year... its a lake that you really need to have a gps device to mark all of them ...
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Interesting day today. Lots of bass, a few 16" class (targeting perch, but...). The only decent perch I got was in 3 FOW. THe excitement of the day was a school of suspending fish 5' down in 11 FOW. Turns out they were big golden shiners. I caught 1 about 8", but really needed a smaller jig. Didn't have any tip ups along so I couldn't have done anything even if I did catch more but hey. I ran into that school in 2 more holes and got lots of pecks but couldn't hook any more. I got a 9.25" bluegill, which seems big but I never really measure them (except this one) so I don't know if that is big or not.
I found the fish more receptive today, but couldn't find any other decent perch. There are still lots of little guys once you get out to about 18' or deeper.
Had some luck with maki plastics today - although I put a single spike on too. The "spiiki" seemed to work pretty good hooked in the head so it trailed out behind the jig. I also used a "jamei" which looks really good in the water. Both in bubble gum (not my first choice in color, but that's all they had left besides red. I should have bought some red ones too).
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the lake levels change every year so this always changes the springs. SOmetimes they are there, sometimes they aren't. Dangerous lake for sure.
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Drove all over the lake yesturday in my car with a couple buddies running and gunning for perch. Had alot of fun. I saw lots of trucks out, even in the dangerous spring laden areas. Almost bottomed out my hand auger in most places I drilled. Fishing was good pretty much everywhere we tried. Got alot of bass too. they sure are fun on the perch rods.
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Was planning on going out tomorrow after work. How has fitch rd been can you park on the ice? Haven't fished here since january!
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Yes you can park on the ice. Fished there on Sunday.
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Was planning on going out tomorrow after work. How has fitch rd been can you park on the ice? Haven't fished here since january!
you only need a little bit of ground clearance to get down to the ice. very bumpy out there, take it slow. Tons of ice.
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Parked on the ice near Fitch Road and then walked down the east side. Fished from 5 to 20'. One pickerel, very few lookers. Very disappointing. Only a couple other guys out, they weren't doing much either.
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Parked on the ice near Fitch Road and then walked down the east side. Fished from 5 to 20'. One pickerel, very few lookers. Very disappointing. Only a couple other guys out, they weren't doing much either.
saw you over there this morning. The rock bass were on fire at first light!
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Ok guys....crappies/gills gotta be coming in soon prime feeding times in the usual spots. Anybody noticed any increase in activity??? Gonna head out Friday AM early fish out off fitch.
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Maiden voyage for me on toga this year will be Sunday morning ... Leaving from the south end with the wheelers .. Looking to find a few of the old rock piles ..... Remember parking at the corner of Riley's cove and walking a mile or so ....
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I'll be out there Saturday in my best spot I'm hoping the warm weather will increase activity and I'm gonna fish for some walleye too I've been talking to a lot of guys and they have been doing the best an hour before dark after that it's dead
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I'll be out tonight probally around 6 ish. I'll be out in the minefield hoping to stay on top this top lol
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Haven't been out in over a week. Should be about right for me this weekend. I'll see you guys in the minefield. Hopefully they are waiting for me.
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Heading there in a few where would you go off of fitch or out by the pylons from the state launch. I am on the hunt for perch!
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Fitch you will find more gills and crappie. I'd hit the launch.
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Just got off. It was nice to be all by myself nobody within a mile. 3 eyes and some perch. They are finally moving to there staging areas. I'll be back Monday evening as long as there's not a crowd nearby
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Did the eyes have any size to them?
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I caught about a half dozen golden shiners tonite. Biggest about 10". Last year it was fallfish, haven't caught a single one of them this year. Somehow I feel like the golden shiner is much more desirable, although they are both just minnows. I think I'll take some tipups next time and set some pike traps.
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Eyes were around 18-21 inches with one around the mid 20's list at the hole
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Went off of fitch found good some decent crappie and gills. Lost a 30" northern in the hole was using a ul rod for gills. Took 5 mins to get it to the hole! Tight lines and have a blast will be back Monday after work!
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How deep off fitch? Went out today for a couple hours first light, nothing but friggin shiners.......
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Hopefully it doesn't get too crowded out there. I drive by the lake twice a day to and from work. Looks like a vast tundra lately. A couple of diehards pulling gills, that's about it. I wouldn't talk too loud about locations or you might have a lot of competition.
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Fished Saratoga from noon til dark. 1 fat perch to start then nothing good til hour before dark. I punched a ridiculous amount of holes today moving around trying to find fish. Looking down the hole watching 20 tiny perch circle my jig was cool. Caught few bass and just shy of limit of nice gills.
DEC was out checking fish and license when coming off the ice.
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Nice weather brought out the crowd today. I saw plenty of trucks out there on my way to work this morning. Saw a couple trucks in some dangerous spots. I thought people might learn from the posts on here. Some just have to
Live and learn. I'll be out there after work. Good luck and God speed.
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Where are you referring too??
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Nice weather brought out the crowd today. I saw plenty of trucks out there on my way to work this morning. Saw a couple trucks in some dangerous spots. I thought people might learn from the posts on here. Some just have to
Live and learn. I'll be out there after work. Good luck and God speed.
When I got checked by DEC last night, he said he can't believe all the guys that are driving all over the lake. Talked to him for a while about ice fishing and about the lake. Super nice guy.
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This has been the year of the 17 inch pickerel for me. If anyone catches one with a chrome kastmaster, blue and silver blue fox spoon, orange jig, red jig, perch jigging rap, silver snap rap, 4 lb tip up leader, small gold swedish pimple, or an ice fly in its mouth i'd appreciate it back lol.
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Yea the couple of dec officers that work the lake are a couple if good guys just doing there job. I had them yell from shore to me early ice Once I walked a zig zag patteren back to them they started laughing. Have seen them out a couple times since them Ant wait till Monday to get back out there.
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Some ones been driving an suv right out to the mouth next to the first bouy .... not smart
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Yea the couple of dec officers that work the lake are a couple if good guys just doing there job. I had them yell from shore to me early ice Once I walked a zig zag patteren back to them they started laughing. Have seen them out a couple times since them Ant wait till Monday to get back out there.
I have met both of the local Encon guys and agree with Combsey , they are great guys. One of them is a member of my fish and game club.
Going out this afternoon to see if I can find a fish or two.
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(http://i60.tinypic.com/2d1v6mr.jpg)
Yesterday was just one of those days at saratoga where the bass were biting like crazy
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Was out yesterday from 6AM to 1PM. 22" of ice. Met Bigredonice while we were out (hope your evening went well). I had a decent day, brought home 6 nice keeper perch jigging 20' to 60'. Drilled quite a few holes but the Fin-Bore makes it fairly easy Nice day to be out.
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Finally, a BITE - got my limit of nice gills and a couple 11"-12" crappie Sat - plus bass, bass, bass - this morning was OK before sunrise then died out - things are looking up
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Fished Green Canal off marina and got zip. No flags and nothing jigging after punching over 20 holes. Talked with guys in the parking lot and many had the same experience. Had the same success yesterday at Lake Lonely along with four others. Can't be too long before they start spawning in the areas I usually have success. Didn't want to try Fitch Road, as it was a zoo with cars/trucks on and off the ice removing shanties. Will give it a try during the week when it will be much less crowded.
Eagle Ed
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Had a nice day on the lake Saturday. Drove on with the car. Nice meeting you and your buddy RVZ. We will have to get together for some more jigging at some point. Ended up with 5 fatty perch and some nice smallmouth in the morning. Worked hard in the afternoon and evening for some walleyes, but ended with just TONS of lookers. In fact, for the evening bite my group had over 30 tipups out, and we could not ice a walleye. Ice was holding up well when I left late Saturday night. Was shocked at how close to the mouth of the Kaydeross some people were fishing :cookoo:.
do have to keep your eyes open though. Saturday afternoon a bunch of spring holes started opening up around where we were fishing. Three to be exact. And they weren't there on Friday.
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It will just be a matter of time before someone sinks their vehicle. Especially once we get that snow cover on wed. possible 12" of snow
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The mouth never used to get the pressure it does now. Everyone thinks that they are going to catch them now like the past couple of years. First off, the population got slammed the past two years. Also, it is gonna be a late year for ice. I've seen guys fishing the spots on foot, where people are driving their vehicles, near the creek. They were falling in those spots on foot! Hopefully the dummies that go in don't take any innocent lives with them. I'll be laughing my ass off when the first truck goes in, as long as no one is hurt. Confidence can't out weigh expierience.
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Fished off Fitch for a few hours this evening after work in 8 FOW. Marked a lot of fish but could not get anything to hit. They would come up to the jig , hang around for a little while and then go off. I changed jigs 8 times and put on fresh spikes every time.
Anyone have any suggestions on what to change?
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ignorant people
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No they live there. The monkey in the car that came down the lake fri at 9pm at hit the pressure crack in front of the creek 10 yds from open water at 40 mph well he's going swimming.
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Informing people that the ice can be unsafe is totally fine and I agree that people should be staying away from the kay...especially with a vehicle but for someone to say that your going to laugh your ass off when someone falls in?.. people just take things to far...If people want to go out there they can..that's up to them. (We warned them)
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Absolutely I agree but some people aren't that bright. They see guys like myself that know every bad spot on the lake and think they can go where they want. That lake is a killer waiting for someone to screw up. I remember about four years ago I was fishing the drop at the beach at the volleyball net and a quad was coming from china town drove by us,had three kids and his wife drove inside the buoy line past 9 blowhole's over the mouth of the creek,went towards the ramp. Hr later here he comes again back I chased him down. He said he was visiting friends and took his friends quad for ice cream. Then showed him what he drove by. I had to take him 1\2 way back. His wife wasn't impressed..
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Went out this morning looking for perch. Jigged in 20-24 FOW. Fish were extremely aggressive at 1st light. Caught about 20 altogether from 6:30-8am but alot of dinks, kept 5 that were in the 12inch range. After 8 I was still marking fish chasing my jig but could not get them to commit. Ended up leaving around 10.
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Fished again last night. Ice was holding up well, but that was my last time driving my car on the ice. I noticed a few more spring holes popped up in their usual places that hadn't been there Saturday, and with the big warm up today it seems like the prudent move. Caught a bunch of smallmouth and rockbass, but could not get a walleye to freaking bite, despite putting out tipups again along with jigging.
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If anyone goes up today or tomorrow post back how much snow is on the ice. Heading up on Saturday
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no snow on the ice. We only got 2" and thats all gone from the wind
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I haven't been out since Saturday night. There were so many guys in my usual spots it was depressing. Are there still guys hammering the west shore? I wanna go, but it sucks competing with all the new crowd the past couple of years. 2 days left. Good luck to all. Anyone pull out any slammers yet? Usually a few by now. I know the old man probably got a few
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I'm going out tomorrow for a last hoorah for eyes. Will have safety picks around my neck ;) but gotta good feeling about it. This guy you should not worry about the competition, everything is so under fished around here compared to some top notch walleye lakes in the midwest. There's only so much time to take advantage of the prime times to catch these fish when they are vulnerable. Go get em'
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it sucks competing with all the new crowd the past couple of years.
you should have seen the west side 10 years ago when we had a number of seasons of good ice and good fishing in a row...the crowd over there is nothing new, some of the participants might be, but the "crowd" most certainly is not. Overall, I'd say Saratoga only gets about 2/3 the ice fishing attention that it used to. Slabcommander is right, this lake gets very little pressure comparatively speaking.
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You guys are probably right. I get a little whiny when I see so many new faces in spots. I know that I was that new guy once too. That's just me being crabby about only one day off a week. Used to be able to fish around the crowd. Poor me, working for a living
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You guys are probably right. I get a little whiny when I see so many new faces in spots. I know that I was that new guy once too. That's just me being crabby about only one day off a week. Used to be able to fish around the crowd. Poor me, working for a living
I feel your pain. I too have to work for a living but at least have the weekends off almost all of the time. However, I will be working out of the Saratoga Lake office around 3:30 pm today. :)
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Most people work for a living. Its the suckers like us that work M-F 9-5...alot of my buddies work swing shifts and get to fish weekdays. Lucky stiffs. ;D
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Got to love swing shift. Days off during the week when there is a lesser crowd.
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Got to love swing shift. Days off during the week when there is a lesser crowd.
X2 ;D ;D ;D ;D
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I fished last night tossed a coin between two spots. Fished til 7 lots of lookers nothing would commit. Wouldn't even hit my dead stick. Walked back in to where I was going to fish and watched a kid catch a 6.8#er. Weighed it for him and congradulated him. He never fished the lake before hahahaha......He didn't even realize he was on any specific structure just walked out and set up. Unreal! I'm guessing he'll be back lol
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Im assuming your talking a 6.8# eye?
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Fished last night as well. I had two pickerel hit right after dark...pretty disappointing when I was hoping for eyes.
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Yup big ol' wally. I got bass, pickeral, rock bass........ugh. Oh well time to hammer some panfish now. Hopefully the new weed growth should start popping up soon.
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Anybody notice the panfish showing up a bit thicker yet?
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Last night boyz. See you out there.
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Fished today from 7:30-2:30. Windy as hell after noon and the bite was fairly slow. Managed a half dozen gills and a crappie for the table. Lots of nice largemouth is a promising sign for late June. Word of caution..... Springs are opening up all over. There's over a foot and a had of ice but the springs will catch you by surprise if you aren't paying attention.
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Fished for a few hours this evening and caught enough pickerel to last me until the opener in march. Couldn't even get my five tip ups in the water without getting a flag and the first one hit when I still had the tip up in my hand. Ran out of bait after an hour and tried to jig up some dink perch which didn't work quite as well.
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Fished late afternoon today just south of the bridge. Met a guy coming off the ice that said he was catching perch in that area. Marked a lot of fish did not get a bite in 4 hours. Drilled about 20 holes fished 10 different jigs. Fish would come off the bottom, hang around my jig, then sink back down. Must be they did not want spikes or meal worms today.
I have had enough of this crap. I'm done for this year.
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Im also done as well I think that all this unusual weather we had this year really threw things off...
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It ain't over untill its over... haha still lots of ice and lots of perch to catch...
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I talked to a few guys that think it could be low oxygen levels that keep fish dormant. Makes sense in smaller lakes and ponds. Toga has enough moving water you would think. Still plenty of ice though. Late ice is usually good. WATCH OUT for spring holes, everyone. They are really opening up. Ice in surrounding areas is a lot thinner. By10 inches or so.
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I'll have to agree...the lake is screaming for oxygen! It hasn't had a substantial inflow of water since January and it has been pretty much ice covered since December. The fish are going to be sluggish. It's just like mid-ice conditions when it should be late-ice, or even ice-out conditions. Early season open water fishing should be interesting. By the way...this is not the time of year to go "exploring" for new areas on 'Toga. Unlike the fish...the springs are very hungry!
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I went out got into some big gills yesterday. Look for areas in the shallows with the most clear ice (no snow or opaque ice) light will penetrate these spots best and weeds are starting new growth. That's where the late ice action is to be had as they will give off oxygen. The thicker the ice, the longer it takes for the sun to penetrate and the weeds to grow as they need light for photosynthesis. That's my 2 cents for the day lol
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Fished late afternoon today just south of the bridge. Met a guy coming off the ice that said he was catching perch in that area. Marked a lot of fish did not get a bite in 4 hours. Drilled about 20 holes fished 10 different jigs. Fish would come off the bottom, hang around my jig, then sink back down. Must be they did not want spikes or meal worms today.
I have had enough of this crap. I'm done for this year.
I had the same thing happen but on the king. It's slow everywhere it seems. I'm not giving up on toga yet.
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If low oxygen really is the issue, the fish will hang out just under the ice. Ironically, the last time we had late ice like this, we did really well jigging just a foot or two under the ice.
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I had the same thing happen but on the king. It's slow everywhere it seems. I'm not giving up on toga yet.
I'm leaving Friday to go turkey hunting in Georgia. Warm weather, no ice and doing what I love doing more than ice fishing. :)
I am going to do some soft water pan fishing when I'm not hunting.
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If low oxygen really is the issue, the fish will hang out just under the ice. Ironically, the last time we had late ice like this, we did really well jigging just a foot or two under the ice.
Buddy got a bunch of gills yesterday in cabbage just under the ice.
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Not to but in but.... low oxy has been the talk for years... theres still guys thst go out and do well every day.. the pan fish have started to turn on very well. The bigger perch are crusing bed lines and gills are sticking around too... its kot a matter of low oxy or weird weather patterns. If anyrhinf its to do with over population and aslo the fact that its not the same lake it was 13 yeara ago... toga has become the lake of few believers. Its aboit changong your tactics constently ... the larva isnt working any more its changed stagees there not eating the same .. mud bugs are gone... just because fish have changed to a new sourrce dosnet mean they dont eat every day...
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I gave it a try today. Got into a few golden shiners, a rock bass, a bluegill, a number of sunnies, a couple bass, a pickerel, and one large perch (13")
The sunnies were pretty active in 15 FOW. I found the perch only 3' deep over weeds, but couldn't find any of her friends. Ice still plenty thick. Wind came up about 10:30, but had to leave at 11 anyhow. Encouraging - I think the best is yet to come.
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Thats exactly why I think its the weather that threw things off as it starts to warm up and with a more regular weather pattern I think the bite will be on pretty soon....As far as population..I dont really think that has anything to do with it I mean..If you compare saratoga to other lakes around here it really isnt fished the way it could be..Not only that the slow bite is a pattern at a lot of lakes this year..(Another reason I think its the weather)....I mean you cant even blame it on the barometric pressure either because thats been pretty decent all season..
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If you compare saratoga to other lakes around here it really isnt fished the way it could used to be.
I fixed that for you. Saratoga used to get significantly more ice pressure, especially before they treated the weeds. Fitch Road would get so popular that at times it would be tough to find yourself your own area to jig bluegills.
Not saying the fish aren't still there...there certainly are still plenty of fish, its just not "gimme" fishing anymore like it used to be. Gotta work for them, and gotta know the lake and its contours to have an advantage.
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big red is right on. If you really track what happens every year the pattern is the same with the panfish. Early season in the weed beds then-weeds die off they go to basin areas and roam then pre spawn they come back not until the fresh weeds re grow and turn back on. It gets real easy when the water warms up and the weeds come up because of oxygen and preferred feeding temps. It's just that the weeds aren't all over like they used to be and unless you really know the lake and where they go to find what they need it seems like theres "no fish". And I can tell ya fitch is hurting right now with the weeds if you pop a lot of holes theres just lots a mud down there right now. I think theres still a lot of fish in the basin still in big schools, during the crappie spawn you can't go anywhere without running into crappie and gills!! They didn't disappear they just are constantly roaming in areas no one will find them in unless you got a power auger and nothing but time.
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Did anyone do good with Walleye this year? My dad is stuck in his old ways and keeps telling me we can go there to his spots and catch a ton of walleye like we used to in the past....I keep telling him the lake doesnt fish the same as it used to and well, he is stubborn lol.
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Let's just say the eyes are there and in good numbers. 2 times I hit double digets on them. And the sizes are looking good to. A lot of 20's with done 12-14 inchers and the occasional 25-27 incher. If your dad has a spot he was hitting them 10 years ago Fish that spot. My best areas this year was a spot that hasn't been good for 5 plus years.
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Let's just say the eyes are there and in good numbers. 2 times I hit double digets on them. And the sizes are looking good to. A lot of 20's with done 12-14 inchers and the occasional 25-27 incher. If your dad has a spot he was hitting them 10 years ago Fish that spot. My best areas this year was a spot that hasn't been good for 5 plus years.
hmm no kidding. I havent ice fished the lake this year but I got a 6lber that was 25" during open water season.
its not like I can go out fishing for them now anyways. I just haven't heard much about them being caught this season like they used too.
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The people who did good this year was tight lipped. Most times out on toga this year we were by ourselves I'm a person who believes in cycles and a couple lakes I fish are / were like they were years ago and I had a great year. Next season ask where you dad was getting them early ice and give it a shot.
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Half the problem also with walleyes to the common angler is they leave to early and arrive too late. The best bite is about to happen and everyone goes home to make dinner lol. Or your set up in the am for prime time and the yahoos come out with power augers and start drilling 75 holes in 10 ft. of water. I was set up the last week in the early am ready to go, just at prime time three wheelers of guys come out and see me with a flag, they stop look and immediately get set up right outside where I am. The funny part is they cut like 20 holes and realized where they were was only 3ft. deep. Hilarious
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I was out this morning and found the gills and bass quite active, until about 9:30. Was fishing in about 6-7', with weeds on the bottom. Threw em all back. Didn't get a single perch, although I drilled a lot of holes shallow and just outside the weedline looking for them.
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Got my first eye today
(http://i60.tinypic.com/ot2sed.jpg)
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Got my first eye today
(http://i60.tinpic.com/ot2sed.jpg)
nice job, only a few days too late in the season too. Is it bad I know where you are based on the contours of the blur/shoreline ;D
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Nice eye. Try east of there next year and just a little deeper.
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Kids, don't u have friends?
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What do you mean don't I have friends? I like to fish...
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How shallow/deep were you fishing? Also how much ice is out there. Would like to get up one more time next week before it gets too risky
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I think he wants you to take him fishing. Lol.
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Kids, don't u have friends?
That's nice to say...It sounds like you might be jealous.
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I was fishing about 25 FOW and 18in of ice..Would definitely shoot for before sun up...After about 10:30AM everything really slows down..I never do good during the day.
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I was fishing about 25 FOW and 18in of ice..Would definitely shoot for before sun up...After about 10:30AM everything really slows down..I never do good during the day.
I wouldn't target walleye out of season if I were you, not saying you are but fishing by the creek before sun up will definitely catch the attention of the boys in green...
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Not by the creek....and also targeting perch..DEC can't say I'm targeting walleye with a minnow on a hook...Had no intentions of catching a walleye it was a surprise I've fished there all year didn't get one till yesterday.
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One of the best spots right now for perch is loaded with eyes. You can fish and target perch but eyes are there
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If you are where I think you are you should be catching lots of eyes right now ;)
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Hitting toga after I get out of work tonight. Hows the shoreline at fitch rd hilding up and are people still driving/ parking on the ice. Thanks.
Tights lines and be safe
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Ice is still good, and they are still parking on the ice at Fitch Rd (as of Sunday evening).
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Does anyone on this board have experience fishing at night? between working during the week and needing to spend time with the family on weekends I was hoping to extend the season by fishing after work.
I've fished from Fitch Road during the day with limited success. I would appreciate any advice for nighttime fishing. I'd be happy with perch or crappie. Are these species active at night? I assume the walleye are biting at night, but I'd like to stay close to shore since I'll be arriving after dark. Is there a better access point than Fitch for this? Thanks in advance.
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Ive fished 2 times at night hoping for crappie or maybe even perch...Both times NOTHING even showed up on the Marcum...Not only this lake but a few other lakes nothing seems to bite at night....even with glow jigs...(I've never targeted walleye though)
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Thanks for the reply. Your experience of slow night fishing is disappointing. I was hoping to head out Thursday night. Now, I'm not so sure.
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I'm probably the only guy I've ever seen out at night around here. And it can be awesome, that being said, you really need to time is right and know where the fish are feeding. Wait until really late ice when the weeds start to come up. You need submersible green lights and 12v batteries or forget it. Find the fish in the evening and they will stay by the zoo plankton and the minnows that the light attracts. It's still a little too early in my opinion once the early pre-spawn starts to kick in it's on. And it works great it the summer too, except for the carp shooters, no one else is out there. It's great.
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i was also thinking about getting in some last minute night fishing as the season is starting to come to an end.
time to get on the ice harder and thought night would be a good solution to the prob.
I know walleye fisherman fish at night, but nobody else does it? i would think that it is more popular.
i know my pop up tent has lots of reflective tape on it. thought people really fished more at night?
anybody out there have more positive things to say about night fishing?
thanks
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Everytime I go out at night im the only one on the lake...Im not sure many people do it...
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I gave it a try today, after reading a weather report that the wind would be fairly calm until late morning.
Drilled the first hole in 9 FOW, lowered the puck, saw a fish, lowered the jig, 5 seconds later got a bite - 20" walleye of all things. Didn't look real healthy, had some sort of whitish mucus on gill covers. Caught 3 nice pickerel, a whole bunch of bass, and only one sunnie. No bluegills, no perch. Tried out in 25', there were dink perch which eagerly surrounded my jig when I got to the bottom, but they were just pecking at it. The bass really liked a little chartreuse jig with a matching whip type thing (plus one spike).
Ice is still plenty thick and the top has hardened up since Sunday evening.
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Buz, that mucus is an infection called IC or ICk I'm pretty sure. It eventually kills the fish. I've seen fish in toga before with this. Bass, pike, perch, and eyes. In late stages they will float on the surface an be nearly lifeless. I researched it years ago. I think that it spreads to other fish. I wouldn't throw any fish back with this, personally.
As to the main post, listen to the guys using lights near weeds. Crappie and rock bass are hot this time of year. Funny how no one sees each other out at night, because I know u guys aren't alone.
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You can't miss me when I'm out there I'm the bright green light.
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Buz, that mucus is an infection called IC or ICk I'm pretty sure. It eventually kills the fish. I've seen fish in toga before with this. Bass, pike, perch, and eyes. In late stages they will float on the surface an be nearly lifeless. I researched it years ago. I think that it spreads to other fish. I wouldn't throw any fish back with this, personally.
As to the main post, listen to the guys using lights near weeds. Crappie and rock bass are hot this time of year. Funny how no one sees each other out at night, because I know u guys aren't alone.
I'm familiar with ick in aquarium fish, where it first manifests as lots of tiny dots. Its caused by a little protozoan, some of those things that are around all the time and which normally healthy fish can fight off. I haven't really noticed it on any other fish this year.
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Caught a rock bass that had a blue-ish slime on it. Fished just south of the bridge out front of the park. It looked nasty. I put it back down the hole.
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Buz, that mucus is an infection called IC or ICk I'm pretty sure. It eventually kills the fish. I've seen fish in toga before with this. Bass, pike, perch, and eyes. In late stages they will float on the surface an be nearly lifeless. I researched it years ago. I think that it spreads to other fish. I wouldn't throw any fish back with this, personally.
As to the main post, listen to the guys using lights near weeds. Crappie and rock bass are hot this time of year. Funny how no one sees each other out at night, because I know u guys aren't alone.
oh I remember that pike a couple years back by the mouth of the creek that we netted as it was just barely alive floating... it looked like it had the plague
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Not many fish at night because it's a lot of work and requires more planning and equipment than just a regular day out on the ice. But it can be a blast.
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Headed out to fitch ill let you guys know how I do..
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can confirm, not many people fish it at night...even fewer in the 12am-5am bracket. Ice or open water. A few years ago we were getting ready to launch in late october. Air temp was about 30 degrees and wind was howling. It was in the evening, about to get dark. A fisherman was pulling his boat out as we were dropping the Lund in, asked us if we were really going out in that. He told us we were crazy. A couple hours and 11 walleyes later, who were the crazy ones?
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Went out for a couple hours....few trucks out there...19" of ice...Had a lot of lookers. You really had to work them today..I drilled 21 holes and got 2 bass a jumbo perch a small perch and one bluegill. Ive never had this happen before...While I was jigging today and I hooked into something real big the pole I was using is a stronger pole and it was totally bent in half...when I got half way up the line snapped the drag was set for a big fish and it snapped I have a feeling it was a walleye..I really wish I knew what it was.
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I hooked into a northern a few years back off of fitch. I fought the thing for what felt like 20 minutes on 3lb test until I got it to the 6 inch hole. I didn't have a gaff so I tried to use the handle of the scoop and once I touched him he popped my line. I was in about 9 ft of water and his head was as big as the hole. Had to be around 12-15 lbs .
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Here's a good story about perch and pike. About 30 years ago I got into the jumbo perch big time off Fitch in November(sorry, not ice). They were in about 10' of water, where the weeds just began to thin out (yes there were weeds off Fitch back then). I was catching on a 1/8 oz maribou crappie jig, brown head, orange maribou, nearly one every cast. The perch were on bluegill fry - on a calm day you could see the fry dimpling the surface in the weeds.
At least 3 times during this period I had a LARGE pike either chase one to the boat or actually grab one under the boat. A couple of times they were opening their mouths about the time I was ready to lift the perch into the boat - a Jaws type moment. Didn't manage to catch any of them, although I pulled up the anchor and followed the one that was under the boat for a couple of minutes, before he let go of the perch. Did get a 6 1/2 # walleye (hit the jig). I hooked a fair northern (~40") on the maribou jig but with only 4-6# test he cut the line after coming to the surface and letting me get a good look at him.
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Good story. We catch some nice perch some time mid spring. We also see some giant northerns too.This one I had on wasn't cutting the line unless it rolled and wrapped it around his head. I could see the head of the genz bug hooked right in the front of his top lip, right in the snout. Couldn't ask for a better place to be hooked on lite line.
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Was anyone out off of fitch today hoping to go tomorrow afternoon. Just wondering if the rain hurt the shore line at all?
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Was anyone out off of fitch today hoping to go tomorrow afternoon. Just wondering if the rain hurt the shore line at all?
Just drove by.... its starting to look sloppy and a big pressure ridge has formed running just about around the entire eastern side of the lake about 10-15 yards from shore. Trucks are done for sure. And its still raining hard! :-\
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That pressure ridge has been there for about a week.
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Trucks still on the ice off Fitch today, and not just parked near shore. Ice holding up good. Fishing was a little slow for me, fished weed edges and in/over the new growth (up to about 2-3' thick in places already. Didn't get any perch, but got several gills, a few bass, my season best pickerel (23"), and a handful of rock bass. Enough showing up on the finder to make it interesting.
Tried out deeper again looking for perch, and found (what else) dinks.
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By far the best day I've had out on saratoga yet....Got a ton of bass couple nice size largemouth...Got into some crappie and blue gill... got my PB crappie 13inch....Got 3 pickerel as well...only one perch....Couldnt keep up with the flags I was chasing them all day in between pulling up fish from jigging...3 times today we had 2 flags go off at once both with different fish..Awesome day. :tipup:
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Had one of my best days off Fitch yesterday, limit on gills, 1/2 dozen crappie and quite a few bass and pickerel - all on fluorescent orange tear-drop, in less than 7 FoW, suspended 2-3' off the bottom - only 4 other people fishing in the AM - considering the weather, I might be putting the augers and jig poles away and getting the boat ready for stripers
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Only disappointing thing yesterday was watching these guys take bass...not only are they taking them out of season they aren't nearly of size if they were.
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You should report that. Those are Probly the same guys that lined up on the kaydeross 2 winters ago when the ice was out super early and were taking beyond their limit of walleye and pike. Makes me sick to see it happen
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You should have called the dec,there needs to be greater consequences for keeping fish out of season,to small or to many!I would have made a big stink about that! If you see them again call the DEC and tell them simple
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Only disappointing thing yesterday was watching these guys take bass...not only are they taking them out of season they aren't nearly of size if they were.
report it asap...
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Ice off of fitch is still good shoreline sketchy limited on gills with ease this morning. Be safe saw lots of larger open holes yesterday while I was walking around. Went to deep water yesterday found immense numbers of dink perch few keepers.
Stay safe tight lines! Careful of springs this year!
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Anyone out there today? Was gonna head up later...I hope the shoreline is good enough to get out there.
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There's a few guys out this afternoon, just drove by there. Looks like you have to pick your route to get on the ice carefully.
I stopped at the launch ramp. The water has come up maybe 6" or a foot, access down the ramp is gone. Looks like you could still get on off the side/end or on the rocks on the north side.
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Just came off the lake at fitch rd about 40min ago.shoreline is starting to go like buzz23 said you have to carefully pick your route going out.top layer is starting to melt to where your sinking down a half an inch.alot of old holes are opening up please watch where you are walking.great day to be out.walked out with icefishersteve.caught about 20 large mouths 8 seeds 10 bluegill and 6pickeral.they really liked the color green today.Steve nice fishing with you and hopefully you can make the trip to the king on thursday.
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Many thanks to buz23 for all the info he posted on ice fishing Saratoga lake this winter. well appreciated and thank you again.
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Anyone out there today? Was gonna head up later...I hope the shoreline is good enough to get out there.
Nice meeting you today. Hope you got into em after I left.
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Just came off the lake at fitch rd about 40min ago.shoreline is starting to go like buzz23 said you have to carefully pick your route going out.top layer is starting to melt to where your sinking down a half an inch.alot of old holes are opening up please watch where you are walking.great day to be out.walked out with icefishersteve.caught about 20 large mouths 8 seeds 10 bluegill and 6pickeral.they really liked the color green today.Steve nice fishing with you and hopefully you can make the trip to the king on thursday.
Stayed til 630. I was walking back to truck and decided to try one more hole...3 hours later I finally left for real lol. I'm in for thursday
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Stayed til 630. I was walking back to truck and decided to try one more hole...3 hours later I finally left for real lol. I'm in for thursday
Good deal! Hopefully we put a hurting on them.
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Nice meeting you today. Hope you got into em after I left.
Yes nice meeting you as well..I did get into them right before it got dark...almost got my limit....and I hooked into this big pickerel and was yelling to the two guys to help me because it wouldn't come through the hole I wanted them to drill a hole next to it but all they had was a 4 inch but they did grab its mouth with pliers so I could get the jig out...
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A few diehards off Fitch late this afternoon, but the shore is going fast. Yesterday I thought access was still possible at the boat launch. Today there is a lot more open water all around it.
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If anyone is heading up there tomorrow let me know how it is...Thinking of having my last day tomorrow..
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Heading there tonight after work will reply tonight!
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Just drove by the lake. There is still access at Fitch. Water has come up maybe 1.5' (think they may have put the boards on the dam), but the ice has also shifted some to the north. One guy out already.
Also checked out fish creek. There is a good sized crew putting new wooden bumpers around the launch area, but it looks as though the ice is good and right up to the shore off the left end of the wharf. I think I might go this afternoon. I'm not ready to give in yet.
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Watch your self went by round at 10 it looked fine by 6 it was green. Sunday with the jiffy on fitch it was cutting chunk's with no hard spots.
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Stopped with high hopes tonight at 440 and the shore was gone you'll need a 30 ft' extenstion ladder to get on now at fitch. A boat would of been usefull today if I had brought one an easy 10ft of open water and unsafe ice easily.
Stay safe if you intend to venture I am heading to a few northern ponds this weekend with high hopes!!
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Yeah its over guys...went to fitch yesterday around 3 and the shoreline is shot...a guy in waiters walked through the water onto the ice walked out a little bit and fell right through the ice walked one more step and fell through again....he had to roll back to the shore...
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now that is a diehard ice fisherman. glad he made it back to shore
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Yeah its over guys...went to fitch yesterday around 3 and the shoreline is shot...a guy in waiters walked through the water onto the ice walked out a little bit and fell right through the ice walked one more step and fell through again....he had to roll back to the shore...
I'm sharing that story with all of my friends and family that think I'M nuts.
That's some hardcore stuff right there!
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Yeah its over guys...went to fitch yesterday around 3 and the shoreline is shot...a guy in waiters walked through the water onto the ice walked out a little bit and fell right through the ice walked one more step and fell through again....he had to roll back to the shore...
I must of been just ahead of you I saw the guy in the waders just starting to put the plank accross
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Yeah its over guys...went to fitch yesterday around 3 and the shoreline is shot...a guy in waiters walked through the water onto the ice walked out a little bit and fell right through the ice walked one more step and fell through again....he had to roll back to the shore...
I actually saw a guy fishing off fitch today. I'm not sure how he got out there even with waders. Probably swam out lol.
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I actually saw a guy fishing off fitch today. I'm not sure how he got out there even with waders. Probably swam out lol.
Buddy texted me saying someone was outt there.... good for him!!
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I think you can still get on at the boat launch. One corner looks like it has ice all the way up to the wall (as viewed from the bridge, not a careful inspection).
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Ice out! The south end of the lake is free of ice. Not sure if it all blew to the other end, but in any case it will all be gone in a day or so.
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the ice is up on the road. pretty wild scene.
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I drove by Fitch this afternoon and yes the ice was piled high. What is unusual is that it blew off the lake when it was still 6-8" thick. Takes a pretty strong wind, and the moving ice is another reminder of why people take their docks out (at Saratoga).
I have a number of friends who swear the ice sinks when it goes out. I have given up arguing with them.
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I stopped by the boat launch today and fish creek up to the main lake looks clear but there appears to be a big wall of ice across the creek separating it from the main lake(which is mostly open too). I was going to take the boat out but I don't know if it is just floating slush or actual ice out there.
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Actual ice. A buddy launched his boat today thinking he could get out to the south end and found the ice pack
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Checking back, we went from driving trucks on the ice to ice out in two weeks. It really went fast this year.
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Actual ice. A buddy launched his boat today thinking he could get out to the south end and found the ice pack
Its gone now:) Enjoy open water everyone!
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Cant wait to get out on the lake this year..Anyone remember when our first day out on the ice was?
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Last year had totally different weather conditions than we have this year. We won't be on for awhile yet. The launch and fish creek started to ice up last week but has since opened up with the warmer weather. I hunted ducks on Monday. We had to break a little ice going out to the main lake but the water has come up and it is still liquid up to the shore line in Mannings Cove.
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we are getting rain and 50* temps on wensday and thursday.
Its going to be a short ice season.
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Last year I believe I had already been out on toga by this point in the year, quads and snowmobiles were out by the 1st, hopefully everything will lock up quick after this rain and warm spell coming up
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I fished the south end of the lake last year on Dec. 26th on 3" to 4" of ice. Not this year. A cold snap with no snow would help.
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Anyone know if Browns Beach will allow parking for icefishing? Several inquiries have been made no answer. Thanks :tipup:
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I heard from a fellow that lives on the lake that it has locked up as of yesterday. He said there were a few small areas in the middle the size of Stewarts shop that were open. They should be frozen after last night. Lake lonely is being fished for those looking to go that way. Be safe this weekend! :tipup:
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Anyone know if Browns Beach will allow parking for icefishing? Several inquiries have been made no answer. Thanks :tipup:
There was an article in the Express newspaper where the town supe was interviewed about Brown's Beach developments. Among the planned activities for this winter he cited "fishing contests" (or some phrase like that) so I think it will be open for fishing but we'll see. The big question is whether they allow motorized vehicles on the ice from there or not, and as I mentioned in an earlier post, whether they keep the parking plowed out. So far, the main benefit of the new Brown's Beach has been to the operators of Dock Brown's restaurant. I live nearby and haven't seen but a handful of folks enjoying the park for other than parking for their dinner. I'm not sure about how I feel about the town subsidizing a restaurant.
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In the words of the immortal Spongebob Squarepants, "I'M READY". Got my license this morning (Shock - price went down), lake is finally froze up tight (but how thick?). Tomorrow looks arctic, I'm thinking maybe Friday.
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In the words of the immortal Spongebob Squarepants, "I'M READY". Got my license this morning (Shock - price went down), lake is finally froze up tight (but how thick?). Tomorrow looks arctic, I'm thinking maybe Friday.
At the earliest for me too! "I'M READY" ;D :icefish:
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How thick is the ice at fish creek right now?
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How thick is the ice at fish creek right now?
I fished south end on 6in today. Saw 3 or 4 people on fish creek this afternoon. I would think it's good to go, but didn't fish that part.
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It was 6 inches everywhere I drilled on Saturday from the bridge down a few hundred yards.
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Has anyone fished around Riley cove? Just wondering if this area is worth fishing.
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Has anyone fished around Riley cove? Just wondering if this area is worth fishing.
Its a great area to fish if you are willing to drill holes and cover water. I've caught perch, bluegills and a few scattered walleyes. First ice is the best time.
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Does anyone know if you are allowed to park at the Browns Beach Park? I tried calling, but couldn't get in touch with anyone. It looked plowed when I passed it the other day.
Thanks
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Riley cove can be good but well offshore where the bottom starts to drop off
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On Riley fish the flats if you know where it is
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Anyone have any info in Brown's beach?! Please pm, just wondering if we can park there or not
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You can they have a small parking lot plowed out on the left side you can't park at the restaurant or marina where the ramp is. Pick up your trash we have something good don't want it ruined by dirt bags....
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I was on Riley cove Saturday. Slow bite. 5" of ice. Haven't seen any springs yet. Prolly too cold yet.
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It was -16F at my house near the lake this morning. I don't think we have to worry about enough ice for a while.
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I was on toga today. 6"-8" of good ice where I was. I'm sure it varies some depending where u go.
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how was the fishing?
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Anyone have any luck with northerns? location? thanks everyone!
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Anyone have any luck with northerns? location? thanks everyone!
Not many guys target them in Toga as they used too, don't get me wrong they are in there just not like what it used to be, we catch the occasional one by accident... Lots of walleye and perch to keep you busy tho.
But if you want to target pike look for the usual structure associated with them like weed beds, good luck and tight lines
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Anyone have any luck with northerns? location? thanks everyone!
deep weed edges! Especially the northern half of the lake.
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Spoke to a Town of Stillwater truck plowing the Brown's Beach parking area today - yes park on the left of the restaurant (if you are facing the Lake) and he believes machines are allowed to launch from there.
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What is the name of the restaraunt located at Browns beach so I can get a better idea where the parking is? Thanks
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Spoke to a Town of Stillwater truck plowing the Brown's Beach parking area today - yes park on the left of the restaurant (if you are facing the Lake) and he believes machines are allowed to launch from there.
are you sure you don't park on the left..if facing the restaurant? That's where I saw it plowed and guys parking.
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What is the name of the restaraunt located at Browns beach so I can get a better idea where the parking is? Thanks
The name is "Dock Brown's" - Brown's Beach and they (will) have docks.
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No you park on the West side.
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BTW, when I was fishing in Fish Creek yesterday, two machines (one big front end loader) spent a lot of time cleaning the launch parking area down to bare pavement.
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The name is "Dock Brown's" - Brown's Beach and they (will) have docks.
Thanks for the name. Not sure what you meant by they will have docks. I am assuming that they have bubblers and I need to steer clear but please clarify if this is not correct.
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I wonder if south shore marina will get bent out of shape that you can park right next door for free(assuming) instead of paying marina $7 to park. I'm sure it equals few grand he will lose this winter.
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Thanks for the name. Not sure what you meant by they will have docks. I am assuming that they have bubblers and I need to steer clear but please clarify if this is not correct.
No, docks as place to park boat in summer. no docks yet
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If the owners at Browns Beach are going through the trouble off clearing off parking lots etc. for another place to park and access our lake we owe it as fishermen to stop in grab a beer, soda, lunch etc. and let them know how much we appreciate them. Does anyone remember when old Bev's bar used to let us park and fish if we grabbed a beer there. When they went out of business I actually stopped ice fishing saratoga lake, that was a great pike spot. Just my opining.
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If the owners at Browns Beach are going through the trouble off clearing off parking lots etc. for another place to park and access our lake we owe it as fishermen to stop in grab a beer, soda, lunch etc. and let them know how much we appreciate them. Does anyone remember when old Bev's bar used to let us park and fish if we grabbed a beer there. When they went out of business I actually stopped ice fishing saratoga lake, that was a great pike spot. Just my opining.
The owner is the town of Stillwater! I haven't noticed who is plowing but suspect town trucks are being used. The restaurant people have a lease, it was meant to replace the old ice cream stand that used to be out closer to the beach.
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Any idea how many parking spots?
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I live right next to Saratoga Lake anyone trust someome to fix a gas auger near by, the old girl is running rough and leaking a little gas.
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I live right next to Saratoga Lake anyone trust someome to fix a gas auger near by, the old girl is running rough and leaking a little gas.
I've used a guy for several years now. He does an excellent job on all of my small engines. He lives in Mechanicville on Rt. 67 opposite the new bridge they built for the rail yards. Works out of his garage at home in the evenings/weekends.
Chris Turriglio - Small engine repair 361-0179.
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Is the southern end of the lake better for catching walleye than the north end or better for crappie and gills (or both)? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
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I live right next to Saratoga Lake anyone trust someome to fix a gas auger near by, the old girl is running rough and leaking a little gas.
call Hudson River bait and tackle in rennsslear he fixed my auger up for a good deal , look up the number and ask him he'll prolly tell you to brig it in
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Any snowmobiles or four wheelers out yet?
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Any snowmobiles or four wheelers out yet?
I was out fishing near the creek and there were a few snowmobiles coming from the main lake and into the creek. I cut a couple holes just south of the bridge. I would guess there was about 8-9". I did not measure though.
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Any snowmobiles or four wheelers out yet?
Snow mobiles and wheelers are on the ice.
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Hows the fishing been any one having any luck out there
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A lot more weeds on Saratoga this year compared to past few years. can make it tricky when using flashers but the cover is good for the fish. A lot bigger bass this year it seems .
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The new Brown's Beach access has been busy and I'll bet there are at least 10X more people fishing that part of the lake this year. Going to get hammered pretty hard.
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Yah that area is getting hammered. Last year southern end of the lake was much quieter. Access to west side of the lake is best way to avoid crowds now....
The new Brown's Beach access has been busy and I'll bet there are at least 10X more people fishing that part of the lake this year. Going to get hammered pretty hard.
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Was on Fish Creek today. 8" ice. Perch were biting. No monsters, but dinner is dinner.
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Fished off of fitch rd on Sunday. Pretty slow day dozen bluegill one crappie and some perch out deeper but no size to them. All the bluegills and crappie were good size.
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Fished off of fitch rd on Sunday. Pretty slow day dozen bluegill one crappie and some perch out deeper but no size to them. All the bluegills and crappie were good size.
fb899. I was out off of Fitch on Sunday also. Jigged up a dozen nice gills. No craps though. The bite has actually been fairly slow so far, dontcha think?
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i have not fished there in years are the gills still big
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fb899. I was out off of Fitch on Sunday also. Jigged up a dozen nice gills. No craps though. The bite has actually been fairly slow so far, dontcha think?
That's was my first time on the lake this year and probably the last. Only hit it because it was close to home on Sunday. Once lake George is froze I would rather be up there. I could get the gills to bite, it was just tough finding them. I would go 15-20 minutes without marking a fish.
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For those of you that fish the South end of the lake...especially the Brown's Beach area. There are motorcycle and four-wheeler races scheduled for this Sunday, Jan. 25 at Brown's Beach...specifically at Dock Brown's Lakeside Tavern. Racing starts at 12:00Noon. The tavern will be opening at 8:00AM.
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For those of you that fish the South end of the lake...especially the Brown's Beach area. There are motorcycle and four-wheeler races scheduled for this Sunday, Jan. 25 at Brown's Beach...specifically at Dock Brown's Lakeside Tavern. Racing starts at 12:00Noon. The tavern will be opening at 8:00AM.
Thanks for the heads up! tell Robert, Brian says Hi
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Anyone been under the bridge? Is the ice safe there yet? (I don't fish there but like to fish south side after parking at the launch).
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I haven't been out under the bridge yet buz23 but last year with first ice guys were out on fitch and the ice depths were pretty consistent between the bridge and fitch....Just remember to be careful near the docks..I always keep a good distance away.
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There's plenty of ice under the bridge. I always feel better when I can follow snowmachine tracks and know that they didn't go in.
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Lost my phone on toga today. I believe it fell out my pocket where the trucks park on ice across from fitch rd. I fished from 1pm-dark. Thought I may have left it in my truck. Got back to the truck and it's not there. Must of fell out on the ice where trucks have been parking or within 300' straight out. Its a galaxy s4 with cracked screen. Phone is off so I cant call it. If anyone finds it please let me know, thanks! I don't care about the phone, gonna lose a lot of good fishing and hunting photos which im pissed about.
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I'll keep an eye out for your phone. I fished with my kids at the south end sort of across to the west of Browns and caught nothing this pm. only marked fish once. kids kinda disappointed, as was I! :wacko: :wacko:
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I am going to fish toga again on Sunday. I'll look for it on my way out. I'm sure there will be a lot of people out tomorrow. Hope some one finds it and let's you know. Might be a good idea to check the bait shop to see if anyone found it.
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Lost my phone on toga today. I believe it fell out my pocket where the trucks park on ice across from fitch rd. I fished from 1pm-dark. Thought I may have left it in my truck. Got back to the truck and it's not there. Must of fell out on the ice where trucks have been parking or within 300' straight out. Its a galaxy s4 with cracked screen. Phone is off so I cant call it. If anyone finds it please let me know, thanks! I don't care about the phone, gonna lose a lot of good fishing and hunting photos which im pissed about.
Damn, got some flash lights and go back and look for it.
Hope you find it, might have to text the gf sunday night for monday.
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Damn, got some flash lights and go back and look for it.
Hope you find it, might have to text the gf sunday night for monday.
I retraced my steps yesterday. It gone! Pretty sure someone picked it up. The lil bit of snow that fell this am will make it impossible to find if its still on ice. Oh well that's phone #2 that I lost on toga. Other one is on bottom of lake near boat launch. Wayne I will be buying a new phone today. if not I will turn on my business line and use that. I will pm you the #
On a bright note caught nice gills and some perch yesterday. Last 30 min of light fish turn on for sure.
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That sucks you lost the phone. I dropped a Galaxy S4 active in a hole at schroon lake last year. I also had a lot of pictures that I lost. Best thing to do is buy a back-up app. Set it to run once a day. The one I have is g cloud back up. You get 10gb free storage. When that's full you can pay for additional storage. Contacts, messages, pictures, downloaded files all can be restored to new phone.
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Dropped my iPhone 5s in perfect condition right through the hole last week off of fitch...Went out off of browns today wind was brutal and the wind drifts were collecting so much snow on my tip ups I decided to leave...
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What would yesterday's racing do to the ice? If I recall many years ago there was racing by the point and some people went through ice after.
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A few of my buddies hit toga yesterday and my buddy dropped his iPhone in the lake too, that lake is piling up the phones
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We fished this am. Did take us a little time to get on fish. Fished around the weeds. Had to move around a bit to find open pockets. Big gills, couple bass and a nice perch. Solid 12" of ice.
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Has anyone had any luck with norhtern or walleyes? Myself and a group of friends/family are going up this weekend, we are new to the lake but have been doing some research, was going to try an area called mannings cove or near china town, was also looking at the southeastern area of the lake, thanks for any info and happy fishing to all!
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Has anyone had any luck with norhtern or walleyes? Myself and a group of friends/family are going up this weekend, we are new to the lake but have been doing some research, was going to try an area called mannings cove or near china town, was also looking at the southeastern area of the lake, thanks for any info and happy fishing to all!
Mannings cove is good fishing but is a long way from public access, without private access near there you may want to take a machine out there. The west side of the lake also has a lot of springs too so just be very careful, Mannings and the area around the Kay are loaded with springs. Walleye are being caught though however I personally haven't heard of any pike yet but I'm sure some have been caught.
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I read in the express newspaper that there is a tournament on February 8. Does anyone have info on how or where to register and more details. Thanks!
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Ice Fishing Tourney is Sunday, Feb 8 - entry fee is $20/person - must be registered by 9AM day of, pre-registration available at Dock Brown's Tavern. Cash prize for longest, pike, pickerel and perch. Dock Brown's (518) 306-4987
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Trout bum I dont know how to get pics up il see if I can get someone to help me then il post some as long as you dont try poaching my secret spots lol
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make sure you include the background in those pics! ahhahah
Trout bum I dont know how to get pics up il see if I can get someone to help me then il post some as long as you dont try poaching my secret spots lol
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Trout bum I dont know how to get pics up il see if I can get someone to help me then il post some as long as you dont try poaching my secret spots lol
If you go to ice shanty main page there's a help and FAQs. The very first post in orange is how to post pics.
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I know about the springs and holes on the West and South sides, but if one wanted to drive from Fitch road to around Maple Shade on the East side after this cold front, are there any danger spots to be aware of? Thanks in advance for safety issues.
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I know about the springs and holes on the West and South sides, but if one wanted to drive from Fitch road to around Maple Shade on the East side after this cold front, are there any danger spots to be aware of? Thanks in advance for safety issues.
I cant say specifically this year, but as long as you avoid the mouth of the brook where nielson road comes down, thats a fairly "safe" corridor. I've never encountered any springs or soft spots in that area.
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I know trout bum you must be In. Love with me following my post and stalking me on the lake
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Thanks BigRed.
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Does anyone know where I can get information about the tournament?
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You can get info for the tournament at doc browns restaurant its 20 dollars to enter
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I have been fishing Saratoga for quite a while now and I have found that my "hot spots" do not have the vegetation growth that they used to.
Have they treated the lake lately?
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I have been fishing Saratoga for quite a while now and I have found that my "hot spots" do not have the vegetation growth that they used to.
Have they treated the lake lately?
They haven't treated the lake for a few years. Weed growth was down this year in most lakes due to the winter we had last year, followed by low water levels etc...
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Hey did anyone find a hand auger my buddy left in parking lot at browns beach. If you did I can give description and meet you to pick up. It was saturday 1/31. PM me if you know anything. No questions asked!!! Thank you.
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One very hardy (foolhardy?) diehard dragging his jet sled out from Brown's Beach this morning. 15" of fresh snow, -5F currently. I wish I had that much determination.
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One very hardy (foolhardy?) diehard dragging his jet sled out from Brown's Beach this morning. 15" of fresh snow, -5F currently. I wish I had that much determination.
That was my buddy, I met up with him this afternoon and helped drag it back, that was fun!! It couldn't have been done without a smitty sled
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It was no short drag either, he was about a mile out... He's an animal!
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A regular customer at work, that lives on the lake, said he sat there and watched him with his binos for a minute. He said couldn't believe it and gave him credit.
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The jet sled was full too, including a 6 man hub style shanty
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I was wondering if a fellow fisherman with a plow went down on the ice at fitch road and plowed out a parking lot for trucks????
Just wondering if I can still get down on the ice at fitch?
Or do I need to pack a snowblower. :P
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Natefish was there any slush yet?
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Natefish was there any slush yet?
No slush, anyone from 6-12+ inches of snow depending on the drifts, there's a few snow mobile trails down by browns beach which give a little relief in the drag but venturing off of those and your legs really feel it!
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We fished south end this morning. A number of holes the water came out a half inch to an inch above the ice, but before drilling there was no slush.
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Headed out for 'eyes tomorrow on Saratoga
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The good news is you can drive all over the lake. The bad news is 3 of us fished all day, from Fitch to Snake Hill, and the only fish caught were about 20 4-6 inch perch. Saratoga has never been good to me. I hear about walleyes in there but I'll be damn if I can ever find one.....
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The good news is you can drive all over the lake. The bad news is 3 of us fished all day, from Fitch to Snake Hill, and the only fish caught were about 20 4-6 inch perch. Saratoga has never been good to me. I hear about walleyes in there but I'll be damn if I can ever find one.....
It's been slow lately. Don't give up yet. Go back and try it again at late ice.
Also, I'd just like to thank the guy who plowed off the parking area at fitch road. If you see this thank you for helping all of us out. I hope you catch lots of nice fish this winter for your efforts.
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was anyone at the browns beach derby today. Any results?
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The good news is you can drive all over the lake. The bad news is 3 of us fished all day, from Fitch to Snake Hill, and the only fish caught were about 20 4-6 inch perch. Saratoga has never been good to me. I hear about walleyes in there but I'll be damn if I can ever find one.....
Its not just you. Other than first ice, there is a small select few spots that are productive if you use tipups :sick:...otherwise they are difficult to convince to bite. Also not nearly as many walleyes in the lake as there was 5-10 years ago.
I put A LOT of effort into jigging them last year, especially the second half of the season, and they just don't bite in any of the areas I used to catch them. Marked plenty of the vex, but convincing them to bite is another story. Even fished next to a group the last two evenings of the season in March, they were plugging away at them with tipups, but they wouldn't hit my or any of my other handful of friends' jigging lures. Only one I caught through the ice was by accident while mid-day jigging smallmouth and perch.
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One very hardy (foolhardy?) diehard dragging his jet sled out from Brown's Beach this morning. 15" of fresh snow, -5F currently. I wish I had that much determination.
Hats off to that guy. We walked about 0.65mi on Lake George but luckily the wind blew most everything off but 4-6" and the ATVs packed it down nice. I might throw in the towel this weekend with all the snow we have now plus the subzero temperatures.
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Took 2nd in the derby with a 12 inch perch...winner had a 12 1/4....one small pickerel. We weighed in at 3 40 so there may have been more at the end. The perch we caught were huge all day 10 inches plus and fat boys
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Does anybody remember getting bait in Malta? The shop was between the state police barracks and what is now the Getty Station. The guy had a bad eye. This goes back to the late 60's early 70's.
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I remember him,we tried not to stop there if possible He was a real pain in the ass.He had a real small building that he sold bait and old cars from
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Does anybody remember getting bait in Malta? The shop was between the state police barracks and what is now the Getty Station. The guy had a bad eye. This goes back to the late 60's early 70's.
The only place I know of is a little south of Round Lake. He sells fire wood, stacked out by the road as well.
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Does anybody remember getting bait in Malta? The shop was between the state police barracks and what is now the Getty Station. The guy had a bad eye. This goes back to the late 60's early 70's.
The only place I know of is a little south of Round Lake. He sells fire wood, stacked out by the road as well.
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Yeah,and he always had a cigar in his mouth,good bait it was always cold in there
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Anyone have any info to how much slush is out there?
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Was out off fitch rd this afternoon,in close the slush wasn't bad-only in a few spots.The further out I went it got worse,ankle deep or better. The ice road that was plowed has drifted over some but still walkable,once you stray off that all bets are off between the snow and slush underneath. Drilled 7 jigging holes and in 3 hours had a small swimming pool forming around me. Bite was non existant for gills until after 4pm and then it was slow at best until dark. No wheeler or sled tracks out there in the fitch area at all.
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basher, hope the whole thing slushes up like last year so you can walk on top.
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That's what I'm hoping for. I walked off of silver beach Wednesday. Only made it to 8 fow. Jiggled up 1 bass, had a few more lookers and called it quits. Tough going to say the least. Might venture out later today or tomorrow with the jig sticks. I know where I want to go. I just can't get there!
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Has anyone tried snowshoes? It's an obvious thing I have been doing well with them in Rensselaer County. Takes you 2x as far out no doubt. It's very difficult fishing tip ups with them on though. :tipup:
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We talked about using them while we were out there. Would have helped no doubt
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The walleye are in here guys. The probs that exist are-you have to travel far to find productive areas especially after first ice, secondly the navionics map of this lake is so far off it's rediculous. There is a 90/10 rule on this lake and the ten don't do a lot of talkin'!
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like Joe said, they are in there. I have caught a few 25"ers bass fishing in the last few years, but thats along side deeeeep water. I am not sure if they follow the same pattern in the winter months.
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Attempted to drive out off Fitch Saturday, got about 100 yards past the furthest shanty before the snow got too deep for a full size truck. Got unstuck, switched up spots, and walked off the state launch where we jigged a mixed bag of fish.
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Any crappie out there red?
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Fished off fitch today. Drag was absolutely brutal in most spots. Some spots you could almost walk on top of the snow and some spots sink through snow and slush to knees. Blue gill bite was off and on. They were either super aggressive or just sniff the jig and swim away. We fished 10' of water column but mainly jigged around 6'. Dead sticking worked the best. Me and my buddy had friendly competition first to 15 gils. It was basically neck and neck til the last fish. Funny as we got closer to 15 we could hear each other getting pissed when we missed a hookup. Fish #15 snapped my line and took forever to re-tie a knot because I could here him landing fish and he was catching up to me fast. He did win fair and square though. He hooked into fish #15 first. Super fun day on the ice. We caught 2 limits of gills and few bass. Gils and seeds ranged from 8.5"-10.5"
Best part was no wind finally.
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Good job Steve. Let the filleting begin.
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Any crappie out there red?
We did get a few
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Went out today off fitch for just a few hours, brought the wheeler but had to stay on the previously established trail, once off that the slush was impossible to push through, passed a truck stuck in the slush, luckily some other guys were able to give him a tow, fishing was extremely slow, one flag for a pickerel
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That was me stuck off Fitch - many thanks to the guys from Utica - it would have taken a looooooooong time to shovel the ice from underneath the frame - 4WD does you no good when the tires aren't touching the ground (or ice).
I WILL be back Sat and Sun! Hopefully smarter and with my buddy's 4 wheeler.
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How's the walking out there, guys? Obviously no good for a machine, but will my feet stay afloat?
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Sometimes. Haha For the most part you will stay on top but some sections are badly drifted over or slushed and make walking real frustrating
How's the walking out there, guys? Obviously no good for a machine, but will my feet stay afloat?
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Any snowmobiles out?
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How's the walking out there, guys? Obviously no good for a machine, but will my feet stay afloat?
The drag is much easier from the state launch but fishing was terrible today. Barely marked any fish and didn't catch much. 1 dink perch and that's it. Slowest day of season so far for me on toga.
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Yep
Any snowmobiles out?
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Anyone fishing toga this weekend? I was going to try the snowmobile off Fitch
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I was one of the brave souls who fished from 11 till dark on Fitch ! Wind was brutal had to anchor every tie down and pile snow on the side but I stuck it out and me and my girlfriend crushed the bluegills! best part was close the shanry window and look down the hole and watch every fish bite !!!
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that has been good for gills for a long time,you had them biting that is more then
i could yesterday
;D ;D ;D
RAT
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that has been good for gills for a long time,you had them biting that is more then
i could yesterday
;D ;D ;D
RAT
they would come through in little schools but it would be 5 fish then dead for 20-30 mins and bam more fish and dead again
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How's the slush out there off of Fitch?
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I'm here now and no slush that I've ran into
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I will be out there tomorrow if anyone wants to join. I will be on foot. Hoping drag is better than last time I was out. Felt the burn for sure.
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Steve please report back with how bad or hopefully well the walk went. Thanks!
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I fished off the launch ramp this morning. Near the ramp the ice is pretty good. But I walked about 1/4 mile up into Fish Creek and ran into lots of slush, tough walking. Water came out of some holes 2-3". Tough drilling.
Wish I could report good fishing, but a few perch and one bass was it.
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I fished off Fitch last weekend several hundred yards from shore and slush was brutal.
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Just jogged off launch for about 30-40 min. Wind blew me off cause I'm with my dog. Only a few dink perch. Didn't have the patience today. Going to my crappie spot now
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Just jogged off launch for about 30-40 min. Wind blew me off cause I'm with my dog. Only a few dink perch. Didn't have the patience today. Going to my crappie spot now
I saw you today ! I was in the black frabill about 100 yards off the launch .. With 2 other shantys near me , few dinks one good fish lost at the hole, wind blew us off Fitch so we ended up at the launch , didn't realize how deep it actually was in front of that launch!
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I'm here now and no slush that I've ran into
yeah, I ended up at Fitch for a bit. That wind was shaking the shanty pretty good. Ended up with 5 species today. But was pretty good for a while and then shut down.
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Yes, icelife4, it drops off there pretty quick in a few spots lots of good fishing in the channel there and all down the creek. Explore a little & you can find some decent spots near by.
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Yes, icelife4, it drops off there pretty quick in a few spots lots of good fishing in the channel there and all down the creek. Explore a little & you can find some decent spots near by.
I deff will be ! Good short walk and you know some monsters are cruising those drops ! Only way to get em is fish em ! How'd you do on the crappie spot?
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just wondering would 4 wheeler make it in snow & slush at browns or fitch rd any info want to go this weekend should I bring b 4 wheeler
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We got stuck with our wheeler pretty good on thurs off fitch, there was quite a bit of slush in the deeper drifts, dont have chain though
just wondering would 4 wheeler make it in snow & slush at browns or fitch rd any info want to go this weekend should I bring b 4 wheeler
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Walked out from Browns beach today. It wasn't bad walking in the packed snowmobile path. Saw one quad go out towards snake hill with no problems. Fishing was slow. perch on the Aqua vu basically laying on the bottom and not coming up at all. Did end up with two jumbos a bass and two pickerel. Ice was over 20inches thick so looks like another month of hardwater fishing is ahead of us.
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Did good on the crappie spot, ice4life! Me and one buddy went home with 15 Plus a bonus bullhead. Not on toga fyi. Sucks a lot of seasons are gona close while we have so much ice to still fish. 2 more weeks for the predator fish. Gona be a great late season for panfish though, I'll bet.
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Walk off fitch isn't bad at all. Someone plowed a path and snow is packed in spots. Quite a few trucks out. Finally got some big perch but not a lot of them. Few nice gils. Fish are sticking to the bottom it seems. Weren't very aggressive. I guess late afternoon has been more productive.
I'm done fishing for a week. Off to Missouri for snow geese.
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Any reports on northerns or walleyes? A few friends and my self want to come up this upcoming weekend, we have never been there before and would love to get on some bigger fish. We can catch perch down here in schoharie county! Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thanks and happy fishing to all! ;D
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Walk off fitch isn't bad at all. Someone plowed a path and snow is packed in spots. Quite a few trucks out. Finally got some big perch but not a lot of them. Few nice gils. Fish are sticking to the bottom it seems. Weren't very aggressive. I guess late afternoon has been more productive.
I'm done fishing for a week. Off to Missouri for snow geese.
Good luck on your hunt. Send me some pics.
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Was this a spring or gas hole? I know guys been driving all over for weeks.... http://wnyt.com/article/stories/S3721157.shtml?cat=300 (http://wnyt.com/article/stories/S3721157.shtml?cat=300)
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Just heard about the sled going in this morning. Does anyone know where? That's why there are parts of the lake you shouldn't go on with machines. The west shore is notorious for spring holes. Maybe there should be more public warning. Good thing no one was hurt.
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The sled went through somewhere near fish creek. Not only do you have some current there, you have to think about the salt from the bridge over the creek, which can be spread by sleds and 4-wheelers, and melt the ice.
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I don't think salt from the bridge is going to make a big impression on 15 inches of ice.
There are bubblers (ice eaters) around the docks in Fish Creek. It looks solid on the surface now but there is not much ice thickness under the snow in those areas.
Those areas should be avoided at all times.
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Headed out in the morning to jig, I will post how the conditions and bite are... Going out on south end
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I got a call yesterday morning asking who to call for a stuck jeep out on the lake. Turns out my wife works with the kids mother. She said the fire dept. tried to put those air bags under it I guess to raise it so they could pull it but it was a no go. Still stuck as far as I know. you guys see it out there or know of it??
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Hope you guys do better this evening than we did this morning. Few perch, one smallie, and a clean cut on Nates line. You know the saying though.... Nothing makes a fish bigger than almost being caught!
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Hope you guys do better this evening than we did this morning. Few perch, one smallie, and a clean cut on Nates line. You know the saying though.... Nothing makes a fish bigger than almost being caught!
The only pleasant surprise was the fairly easy walk, dinks everywhere we went and that clean cut was a 20lb walleye, I know it... lol.
Didn't see any stuck vehicles AJ, was it north or south end?
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Going to try the north end tommorrow evening. Maybe things are starting to pick up over there.
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How's the walk out ? Snow packed down or getting loose and slushy? Thanks
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I was out on the south end on Tuesday, the walk wasn't bad at all, we walked to snakehill and back no problem
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Couple inches of loose snow on top of frozen slush crust off fitch. Walk wasn't too bad but we were really huffing and puffing after dragging all the way to the drop off
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Hows the bite been has it picked up ? Looking to head out on the southend this week after work
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Fished south end this morning action was very slow. Witnessed a cabin start on fire and burn for a good 20 minutes somewhere near the marina. There must have been some ammo inside because at one point it all blew up and sounded like a war going on. Pretty freaky I hope no one was inside or injured. Luckily the fire department showed up.
On a side note I have been struggling to locate good schools of bluegills this season. Last year I was slamming them in 7-9 fow. This year same spots and nothing. Anyone experiencing this or are they much deeper this year due to 2 feet of ice and a lack of oxygen? Tons of pickerel too which is also a disappointing sight as I haven't seen a northern pulled out in years.
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It sounds like they burned the shanty on purpose. They had to be off the lake by the 15th and with all the snow and slush, not many people can get them off so they burn them.
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Sweet. Burning shanties and polluting more water. That lake can't afford more crap in the water! Some people are just brain dead.
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Ya I don't know how they are gonna get some of em off way out. Was out yesterday pretty messy out there. Plus fished a good walleye spot 5-8pm not exactly where I wanted to be but usually get one or two there this time of year. Ended up with 5 rock bass, 5 pickeral one small northern....disappoint ing. Could not bear to walk out to where I wanted to though.
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Well, someone got his vehicle stuck in the ice yesterday (according to Times Union). I suspect he broke through the surface crust; he had to be "rescued" by the airboat late at night. Local officials have declared that the ice is no longer safe and we should all quit now so we don't drown.
I was out on Fish creek this morning, and while the ice was a little thinner than last time I fished there there is plenty. There is about 4" of so-so ice, then an inch of slush, then maybe 10" more of good ice. Muskrats have opened several holes and were out on the ice eating weeds. Walking was good, the surface actually requires creepers. I spend a couple hours watching an eagle on the ice but it turned into a cardboard box when I got closer. (I have seen an eagle down there earlier in the season).
I wish I could give a good report regarding fish, but I never found any concentrations. Caught a few dink perch, a couple gills, a few seeds, a couple snot rockets, a bass, and something broke my 3# test line and made off with a nice tunsten jig.
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why is everyone so quiet???? What's popping on toga anyone been getting gills/crappie?
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it's over
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Not over yet, limited yesterday afternoon 5-7PM and this morning 8-11 in the fog - their still biting - all gills no crappies
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this rain aint good
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(http://i720.photobucket.com/albums/ww204/noggsbucket/Mobile%20Uploads/80BBBCAB-BAA6-4E0C-89FC-4CE88915A538_zps6ooslvos.jpg) (http://s720.photobucket.com/user/noggsbucket/media/Mobile%20Uploads/80BBBCAB-BAA6-4E0C-89FC-4CE88915A538_zps6ooslvos.jpg.html)
The crappie are there and plentiful if you know where to look, the temps this coming week will put a hurting on the ice tho
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What fow for the crappie this time of year Nate?
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The crappie are moving into their pre-spawn areas this time of year, that means shallow... 3-6 fow is where I got these
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From a guy who loves Crappie fishing on Saratoga Lake sure looks like you forgot your crappie checker at home, a few of those look no where near 9 inches. If they are not you should be ashamed of yourself for posting those pictures. If they are I will eat crow. I cannot believe no one else has questioned this.
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Go eat crow, smallest was 9 1/4, no need to keep undersized crapps and there's plenty of guys on this forum can attest to my standards when it comes to fishing, if your looking for a pissing match I'd suggest trying somewhere else
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nice batch of crappies, hard to believe that the ice is still good. I can't wait for the ice to melt and get the boat uncovered and back out on Saratoga Lake. @)
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(http://i720.photobucket.com/albums/ww204/noggsbucket/Mobile%20Uploads/80BBBCAB-BAA6-4E0C-89FC-4CE88915A538_zps6ooslvos.jpg) (http://s720.photobucket.com/user/noggsbucket/media/Mobile%20Uploads/80BBBCAB-BAA6-4E0C-89FC-4CE88915A538_zps6ooslvos.jpg.html)
The crappie are there and plentiful if you know where to look, the temps this coming week will put a hurting on the ice tho
nice batch of Crappies nate good job
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I didn't find the crappies this morning, but caught a few of everything else. Access from Brown's Beach is almost shot, there's a strip of open water that runs parallel to the shore all along. I was able to pick my way across by stepping on a couple of floes, and the good news is it is very shallow so even if you would go through you wouldn't drown.
I found the fish in 7-9 FOW, in the emerging weeds. Seems like the best holes were those that had a layer of weeds (at least on the sonar) then some open water underneath. Most fish were tight to the bottom but I did get a couple to chase my jig above the upper weed layer.
I suspect that the water level will be raised in the next couple of days. Last year it was right around April 1, and the rising water signaled the end due to lack of access.
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I cant wait for open water...
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I cant wait for open water...
ditto, totally ready for the ice to GO
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Fished toga today with ice tripper. Good day on ice. Mix bag of crappies, gils and perch. 15" of ice. Top 2" white ice. Shorelines were getting soft on way out.
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For those of you waiting to get the boat onto 'Toga...
http://www.saratogian.com/general-news/20150329/boat-wash-station-planned-for-saratoga-lake (http://www.saratogian.com/general-news/20150329/boat-wash-station-planned-for-saratoga-lake)
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Not sure what invasives they are trying to keep out of Saratoga. It already has the worst of them all. They should make people clean the boats when they leave that lake even more than when they launch. What lives in Saratoga Lake should stay in Saratoga Lake.
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We set up just off of Brown's Beach Yesterday and we only caught 5 Perch. Any one else have any luck? ???
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Please use the 2017 Saratoga Lake BS thread.
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The thread was created without a date with the intentions to use it whenever. The 2017 page was not needed.
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That's what I thought!
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We did really good yesterday out on browns beach. It took us a little bit to find them but when we did we had consistent bites all day until about 2:00PM and then it died off. We got some nice size perch and a couple big pickerel. The deeper water had a slower bite so we moved in a little shallow and that seemed to make all the difference. I hear some guys are getting into large amounts of walleye. Here's one we got last week..
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e141/Austin_Jesmain/IMG_1563_zps9qzura96.jpg) (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Austin_Jesmain/media/IMG_1563_zps9qzura96.jpg.html)
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Nice eye!
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How much ice?
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Thanks! and theirs about 5-6 inches depending on where you go some places have 4. It's safe for the most part on browns beach, some iced over springs that you have to watch for but I can't speak for the fitch rd end. Hopefully the rain doesn't do too much damage.
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nice toga eye. ;D
have fun and stay on top!!
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Anyone have ice updates for browns beach area? Csn you park at browns beach???
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Went by there early this AM and saw no one out there. Went as far up as Glen Lake via Round Lake and no one was out. Thought it best to just go back home. I'm sure I could have gone out alone but since I am still new to this game I thought it best not to take the chance alone.
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Yes you can park at browns beach for free, but I don't have any updates on the ice I'm hoping it'll lock up nice again by Saturday with these couple of cold nights.
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anyone know what the ice thickness is up fish creek from the boat launch?
Should be good for next week? ???
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Fish creek by the ramp still open today
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Fish creek by the ramp still open today
that sucks :P thanks for the update and heads up
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Np...it may still yet be good by early next week with the cold temps forecasted but use caution
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Np...it may still yet be good by early next week with the cold temps forecasted but use caution
Yea, but next Wen and Thurs with the warm up again, don't think I'll be venturing out there just yet.
But, the south end of the lake out from browns should still be good, as long as it tightens up with this weekend of good ice making weather. Fingers crossed. :icefish:
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There had to of been over 100 people fishing off of Browns beach today. So how did everyone do ?????
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Yea, but next Wen and Thurs with the warm up again, don't think I'll be venturing out there just yet.
But, the south end of the lake out from browns should still be good, as long as it tightens up with this weekend of good ice making weather. Fingers crossed. :icefish:
the open water under the bridge,in front of the launch and all down along the front of lees park is from all 3 of the marinas running ice eaters full bore around their docks and even if it skins over the next 2 days it will only be skim ice and reopen by next weekend. I would be shocked if anyone even gets to use the state launch as an access point this year. never seen all of them running bubblers full power like that before,they effectively shut off the launch.
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We got into a mess of eyes tonight, 3 were dinks like 12-14 inchers, ended up keeping 4 all around 20 inches
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Thanks for the bait bluegillbasher
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Thanks for the bait bluegillbasher
Your welcome and thanks for stopping in,glad to hear you got into a few out there!
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We got into a mess of eyes tonight, 3 were dinks like 12-14 inchers, ended up keeping 4 all around 20 inches
Sweet!
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I didn't get a chance to post this pic Saturday but my dad got into some nice size perch. We also had about 10 pickerel but unfortunately no eyes. I also went out last night and did okay. I was marking 7 inches everywhere I went. I'm sure after last nights temps we have gained some ice. Hopefully the ice can hold up this week to some warmer weather and rain in the forecast.
(http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e141/Austin_Jesmain/IMG_1837_zpsdmn0gngl.jpg) (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Austin_Jesmain/media/IMG_1837_zpsdmn0gngl.jpg.html)
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that is a NICE one,and a great photo thanks for sharing
;D ;D ;D
RAT
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That's a pig! Nice one
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Nice perch wouldn't mind a limit of them.
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That's a beauty
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How did everyone do out there today? I saw quite a few guys out!
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Hows the pike fishing in saratoga?
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Nice fat perch there!
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That's a Great Perch! Has anyone had 4 wheelers out there yet?
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Hows the pike fishing in saratoga?
The pike fishing isn't what it used to be for various reasons but they're still in there. I heard a rumor someone caught a 41 incher last week but I can't confirm that. Personally I wouldn't target them, I'd target eyes and maybe you get lucky.
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How's everything holding up after this rain/warm up???
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Hey Guys
Just wondering how the Fishing on Saratoga lake been? How is the Big Blue Gill bite. I heard that walleyes are biting over by Williams beach. I have not fished the lake Enough to know where Williams Beach is? Can some one point me in the Direction of that beach? How do I get to that part of the Lake? If you like to PM then that would be great. I hoping to be down there this Saturday to try my luck. Thanks for the info. Tight lines to all.
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Anyone make it out today any reports are greatly appreciated
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Fished yesterday ice was fine probably around 7" at fitch road. A lot of water on ice must be way more now. Bite was slowest it's every been for me I only caught 2 small pumpkin seed and a perch in 4 hours.
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Hey Guys
Just wondering how the Fishing on Saratoga lake been? How is the Big Blue Gill bite. I heard that walleyes are biting over by Williams beach. I have not fished the lake Enough to know where Williams Beach is? Can some one point me in the Direction of that beach? How do I get to that part of the Lake? If you like to PM then that would be great. I hoping to be down there this Saturday to try my luck. Thanks for the info. Tight lines to all.
Williams beach is that top secret spot nice drop off just outside beach which holds the big walters. 5# plus. Good luck getting someone to divulge that secret spot.
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Williams beach is that top secret spot nice drop off just outside beach which holds the big walters. 5# plus. Good luck getting someone to divulge that secret spot.
Well; I do not fish allot around here. So I was curious that all. Don't want anybody secret spot. I will probably chase the blue gills and perch around anyways.
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Hows the pike fishing in saratoga?
Pike fishing is alright in Saratoga, although i'm not specifically targeting them when I'm on the water. My buddy landed a 36" northern this spring and I missed the net on a 40" late in the fall so they are definitely still in there. If you're interested in pike specifically, id suggest going over to Lake Lonely. There is a higher population in there than in Saratoga.
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Pike fishing is alright in Saratoga, although i'm not specifically targeting them when I'm on the water. My buddy landed a 36" northern this spring and I missed the net on a 40" late in the fall so they are definitely still in there. If you're interested in pike specifically, id suggest going over to Lake Lonely. There is a higher population in there than in Saratoga.
The pike fishing isn't what it used to be for various reasons but they're still in there. I heard a rumor someone caught a 41 incher last week but I can't confirm that. Personally I wouldn't target them, I'd target eyes and maybe you get lucky.
Thanks. My first time fishing in the area up here for work.... I don't plan on targeting pike with the perch and eyes in Toga but my cousin in coming up in feb. so trying to get an idea of how the fishing is in certain lakes
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I lived by the lake for 5 years. I never targeted pike but have spent countless hrs ice fishing and bass fishing open water. I have caught about 5 pike total.
Here is a pike we pulled out of the lake a few years ago. We spotted it from a boat swimming with its head out of water. Very bizzare site. Clearly the fish was very sick and near death and we were able to net it. It weight about 9.5 lbs on digital scale. Should have been much more but it was extremely skinny. Twice also during bass tournaments I have hooked into pike of this caliber but I was able to shake them off boat side. So not saying there not in there but.... goood luck haha few and far between
(http://i377.photobucket.com/albums/oo215/wdeck1/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_20170113-091736_zpsqpj5nqcu_edit_1484317101105_zps1rp7y0mj.jpeg)
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Pike swim with their heads out of the water occasionally. I have seen this in many places, Champlain, Saratoga, Mohawk, Hudson.
Saratoga has plenty of pike. Big ones too. Set up your tipups on some cabbage or a well defined weedline point, and you will catch.
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Pike swim with their heads out of the water occasionally. I have seen this in many places, Champlain, Saratoga, Mohawk, Hudson.
Saratoga has plenty of pike. Big ones too. Set up your tipups on some cabbage or a well defined weedline point, and you will catch.
Interesting behavior. Something was wrong with this fish though it was barely able to swim and we pretty easily scooped it out of the water
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There are still.some big pike in Toga. Personally seen a 40 released last winter. We caught 8 that day with 5of them over 36
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Interesting behavior. Something was wrong with this fish though it was barely able to swim and we pretty easily scooped it out of the water
I do see that, the fish looks quite sickly in that pic.
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I've seen a couple walleyes out of Saratoga that have that extremely long, skinny, big head look. I think that's the end stage for a big fish, they decline and turn into distinct non-trophies. I trout fished in New Zealand years and years ago and down there the fish do die of old age. The long skinny, big headed fish were called "slabs" and were scorned. A lot of the tournaments down there graded the fish on their condition, taking weight and length into account. I heard of 20" browns that weighed 7# and saw a number of "football" fish when I was there.
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Pike fishing is alright in Saratoga, although i'm not specifically targeting them when I'm on the water. My buddy landed a 36" northern this spring and I missed the net on a 40" late in the fall so they are definitely still in there. If you're interested in pike specifically, id suggest going over to Lake Lonely. There is a higher population in there than in Saratoga.
There used to be a pair of fishing buddies (Leo and ?, from Troy and Guilderland) who fished late fall off the launch ramp, with big golden shiners on a bottom rig. This was in the early 1980's. They didn't catch a whole lot of fish, but a number of fish over 40" every year. They would fish until the lake iced up. They set up on either corner of the pier and cast out at an angle avoiding the bridge piers on the bottom between the launch ramp and the remains of the old bridge across the way. I lived near there at the time and would watch and chat with them when I walked my dog.
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I've seen a couple pike swim with their heads out of the water. I always figured they were trying to swallow something big because the first time I saw one on Delta doing it, it was the biggest pike I've ever seen and it was swimming slowly with it's head up and what looked like a walleye's tail sticking out of it's mouth. Judging by the tail the 'eye would have been pretty big. Every time we got close to the pike it'd slowly sink down and then come up somewhere 50' away again.
Pretty cool to see.
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Interesting behavior. Something was wrong with this fish though it was barely able to swim and we pretty easily scooped it out of the water
I have seen that numerous times on toga and everyone looked just like that, sick. They never spooked or nothing. It was always like late spring. I have never seen this at anywhere else. This action, is it effected from the spawn?
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I'm not saying they don't, i have just not seen it anywhere else. Come ice out I'm on the water quite a bit. It's just weird.
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I have seen pike and tiger muskies swimming with their heads out of the water on many bodies of water. One primary reason I have been told on why they do it, is after a big meal they flush their gills out. The other reason I have heard is to gather more oxygen in oxygen deprived waters. I have seen it many times with giant pike and tiger muskies on round lake in the dead heat of the summer when the water is 79-80*+
Abiut 5 years ago I took a video of a tiger Muskie on round well over 20lbs doing it. The thing had the biggest head I have ever seen...and it came by my boat several times. It's almost like they are in a zone when they are doing it, and can't be spooked. I have no idea where the video went, but it was a very impressive fish.
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Zombies :wacko:
or just plain hypnotized.
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smokin same thing here, I've seen a few doing this on round during the summer months. 2 or 3 years ago one popped up between myself and a buddy on kayaks and didn't spook at all, it was pretty strange and cool to see up close.
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smokin same thing here, I've seen a few doing this on round during the summer months. 2 or 3 years ago one popped up between myself and a buddy on kayaks and didn't spook at all, it was pretty strange and cool to see up close.
Yup. It seems it's only the big ones too! The ones that are 38"+
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Anyone been out today what's it like out there
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Fitch Rd access still good? Little nervous with this warm up
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basshunter you should rethink your statements , netting that pike is actually illegal ...I'm 100% sure you ment to say you netted him "AFTER" he hit on a plug!!!!
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Yeah ice is still good off of Fitch road. Anywhere from 4-6 inches of ice
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Yeah ice is still good off of Fitch road. Anywhere from 4-6 inches of ice
Thank you!!
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Yep that's what I meant.
basshunter you should rethink your statements , netting that pike is actually illegal ...I'm 100% sure you ment to say you netted him "AFTER" he hit on a plug!!!!
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Slow day out on browns beach but 6" everywhere we went. I noticed that the shoreline was a little thin from the rain but the lake was making ice today. If anyone was out there today they felt the whole ice shift and then a loud bang I couldn't have been the only one lol.
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Yep early this morning right? I thought my buddies were messing with me shaking the shanty until I saw the waves in the hole...that'll get you hear going lol
Slow day out on browns beach but 6" everywhere we went. I noticed that the shoreline was a little thin from the rain but the lake was making ice today. If anyone was out there today they felt the whole ice shift and then a loud bang I couldn't have been the only one lol.
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Same thing happened this morning ice cracked and jumped 3" echoed for ever crazy morning looks like the ice pushed up by browns it wasent like that when i went on this morning
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Was thinking of going out on Wednesday how is fitch road doing?
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Tons of vehicles parked along 9P and Fitch Road yesterday. Some on 9P were sticking out into the traffic lane - someone's going to get a ticket.
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Lots of guys out today but the ice definitely doesn't look that great. I even saw an area that had open water across from snake hill. I wouldn't trust a wheeler out there quite yet. I don't want 2 feet of ice but it's always an Odd feeling being out there with under 6 inches of clear toga ice
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Clear ice is the best ice, but I would have to say Saratoga is pretty safe we had 6 inches a couple days ago everywhere we went and we've had nothing but cold temps since then. The open water you saw may have been some melted water laying across the top but I could be wrong.
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I went off Fitch yesterday morning. Ice was anywhere from 6" to 8" depending of where you were. Huge pressure crack a couple hundred yards out with a thin layer of ice then water then thick ice below it. If your fishing right in the weeds you likely wont have to cross it I was going to deeper water. I used spud to get around safely be careful around it. Really nice day out but fishing was pretty slow compared to the usual.
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6-8" of nice clear ice of the north end of the lake heading into fish creek. After a slow day on MLK, the action was hot before the weather rolled in.
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How is fitch looking for Friday and any how is the gill fishing
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Fitch was fine this morning, a little slop over 8" of ice - there is a fairly large pressure ridge forming about 1/2 mile, so be careful if you go that far - fishing was better than the weekend, but I had to weed through a lot of small sunnies to get a dozen keepers.
Should be OK for Friday, but if you plan to fish the weekend, you better get a reservation - last Sat. was a zoo!
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The pickerel bite sure was hot today >:( I ran out of bait and broke the tip on my favorite perch rod not a good day for me.
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I need ice conditions on Saratoga Lake at Brown's Beach. Thank you for any help.
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I need ice conditions on Saratoga Lake at Brown's Beach. Thank you for any help.
Few inches of water on the ice in spots. Ice is holding up for now but is getting weaker. Still 7-8" of ice but ice now getting foggy. More puddles closer to shore. Wear higher boots and be prepared to dry ice shanty after being out there. Can do good around the weeds. If sun stays away the ice will hold but if it gets sumny and warm it will make quick work of ice. Reminds me of last ice right now.
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I guess I should pass. Thank you
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I guess I should pass. Thank you
Im sure most lakes have puddles on them at this point. Luckily it was real good ice made on toga when it froze. Gonna take a bit to melt it to point of not safe. Definitely wont be making ice for next week but should hold if the sun stays away. Ice went from crystal clear to now bluish color. When the puddles disappear then it will be sketchy. Could hear it popping and crackling but still Plenty good ice still. Always use your own judgment .
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How are conditions looking for fitch tomorrow morning safe or not
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How are conditions looking for fitch tomorrow morning safe or not
definitely not as safe as walking on pavement, but probably safer than trying to swim. probably 5/7.
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How are conditions looking for fitch tomorrow morning safe or not
Look up 2 post. I just gave condition of lake....twice. lol
Let me clarify..conditons were for south end and off fitch. Im sure it can vary near currents and run off in other parts of lake
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Thank you icefinder. Maybe I'll give it a try tomorrow.
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Im sure it can vary near currents and run off in other parts of lake
And it does. Most years 'toga isn't too bad. Hell on good freezes I will drive my truck on at 9"...but this year the lake froze quite unevenly, and there are some strange currents and new springs that have opened up.
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I'll be off browns tomorrow.... is there a bait shop anywhere near the lake? Coming from the hudson falls area
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The only one I know is at Lake Lonely, on the other end of the lake. If your coming from the south there has to be something something on the way up.
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I'll be off browns tomorrow.... is there a bait shop anywhere near the lake? Coming from the hudson falls area
If you're coming from Hudson Falls Country Pets on Main St. still sells bait.
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If you're coming from Hudson Falls Country Pets on Main St. still sells bait.
Yea he's a little pricy if you ask me got bait from him once for south bay but looking for somewhere closer to the lake so i can leave earlier in the morning since its about a 40 min drive
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Saratoga Tackle is on rt29 in Schuylerville
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Get your bait right off exit 10/11 near round lake at the wood guy on route 9.
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Stopped and saw the wood guy beginning of the season he said he is no longer selling bait there FYI.
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Saratoga Tackle is on rt29 in Schuylerville
Thanks
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Any info on Browns Beach?
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Get your bait right off exit 10/11 near round lake at the wood guy on route 9.
Unfortunately my buddy Hank Arsenault is no longer selling bait OR cutting deer. Just fire wood now.
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Browns beach still has alright ice. Anywhere from 5-7 inches. Fishing has been good in the afternoon for bass and pickerel. If you want the walleye go at nighttime. We have been getting some 4lb bass on tip ups
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Was wondering the fish report want to take the kid dont want to get skunked lol
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Fishing has been steady at my spot on Toga. Getting a wide variety of species on my tip ups (perch, northern, pickerel, fallfish, and eyes :D). Was only person out this morning (24th) on the northern side. About an inch of slop and water above 5" of ice. Not as strong as it was last week (ice coming up in chips instead of that finely shaved) but besides being wet, I wasn't too concerned where I was at. Watch out in the middle as their is a now sizeable open water hole out by sandy bay just south of the mouth of the Kayaderosseras. Not sure when or how fast the ice thins out as you head out that way. Shoreline ice was also very soft, had to walk down the shoreline to find some solid ice to access the lake.
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On Jan. 14, ECO Mark Klein received a call that fishermen on Saratoga Lake were catching bass and sneaking them into their vehicle although bass season was closed. When ECO Klein arrived, he checked the fishermen. All had licenses and there were no obvious violations of the Conservation Law, but when ECO Klein asked about the bass in their vehicle, they admitted to hiding additional fish and turned them over to ECO Klein. All told, seven bass ranging in size from 13 to 19 inches were seized and the fishermen were charged with Taking Bass out of Season.
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Bravo to ECO Klein but more importantly the person who took a stand and made the phonecall!
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:clap: :clap:
All it takes is a phone call...
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On Jan. 14, ECO Mark Klein received a call that fishermen on Saratoga Lake were catching bass and sneaking them into their vehicle although bass season was closed. When ECO Klein arrived, he checked the fishermen. All had licenses and there were no obvious violations of the Conservation Law, but when ECO Klein asked about the bass in their vehicle, they admitted to hiding additional fish and turned them over to ECO Klein. All told, seven bass ranging in size from 13 to 19 inches were seized and the fishermen were charged with Taking Bass out of Season.
wow
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Who even keeps bass?
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Who even keeps bass?
They taste better from the cold water than they do from warm water!
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They taste better from the cold water than they do from warm water!
But still not as good as perch!
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But still not as good as perch!
That is true! I like walleye and crappie better than perch tho :unsure: Still haven't gotten an eye out of toga yet :-\
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That is true! I like walleye and crappie better than perch tho :unsure: Still haven't gotten an eye out of toga yet :-\
According to the owner of the Lake Lonely bait shop, most of the walleye taken on Toga this year have been caught in the evening/ at night. That being said, the only two I've personally landed this year were around 11am (under cloudy conditions one day and partly cloudy the other). Good Luck out there though. The cold weather this weekend should sure up the ice again nicely.
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Thinking of heading up to Toga on Sunday anyone know how are the ice conditions? Was thinking of heading out by browns.
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Take a look at the Saratoga Lake cam!
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Take a look at the Saratoga Lake cam!
stop throwing rocks on the ice :)
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It don't look too good... 😤
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Shore ice was looking pretty spent on the way home tonight along fitch road. Also had a guy in the shop today say some of the ice in mannings was getting pushed up onto shore from the wind and ice along rileys.silver beach shorelines was in tough shape. No reports thru the shop the last 2 days as far as ice thickness on the lake. Water in toga will be rising more over the next few days as the creek coming out of Lonely going into the kaydeross is 12" higher in the last 48 hours from the runoff and that will end up in toga in the next few days. And yes,word thru the shop is a lot of the wallys caught were after hours fish or early morning,although an over cast day with a light drizzle produced all day. Good luck and be safe out there.
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There is an Ice Shanty 3/4 of the way sunken on the South End of the lake.
http://www.saratogalakecam.com/2.JPG (http://www.saratogalakecam.com/2.JPG)
http://www.saratogalakecam.com/3.JPG (http://www.saratogalakecam.com/3.JPG)
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There is an Ice Shanty 3/4 of the way sunken on the South End of the lake.
http://www.saratogalakecam.com/2.JPG (http://www.saratogalakecam.com/2.JPG)
http://www.saratogalakecam.com/3.JPG (http://www.saratogalakecam.com/3.JPG)
Its almost completely under now. You can Barely see the bump on the live cam. I should go try to mark it with my gps before its completely gone to fish that new structure come open water again @)
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Fished off of Fitch road today. Caught 4 pickerel and 1 bass in about two hours of fishing. Ice is maybe 5-7 inches from the shoreline out a few hundred yards. There is a open water spot if you go out further than that. Tried out some new jaw jackers today. They actually worked extremely well and every time they went off had a fish on
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There's 20 yds of water off Brown's, access is gone unless we get a good refreeze. The little stream to the left of Brown's that comes in from the swamp on the other side of 9P has had a big effect.
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Got myself a 7' 2x6" board to access the solid ice from shore and ventured out today. 4.5" was the thinnest in where I drilled with most holes between 5.5-6" of ice. Saw a handful of people fishing off of Fitch's rd throughout the morning. Fishing picked up right where it left off last week. Got a few walleyes (2.4 & 2.8 lbs) after the cloud cover rolled in. Also caught a PB perch (1.4 lbs) and a 3.5lb Largemouth. Cant complain for a Tuesday morning.
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How is the ice on browns beach ? and around the lake last week the rain crushed the shower lines I wanna get back on to the walleyes out there.
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How is the ice on browns beach ? and around the lake last week the rain crushed the shower lines I wanna get back on to the walleyes out there.
I don't drive by the southern end of the lake but According to the live cam it doesn't look like there's access to the ice yet. Shoreline still looks real weak. I put think link to the live cam below:
http://www.saratogalakecam.com
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I have several plowing accounts down on the southern end of saratoga lake. Today when I went by brown's beach, there wasn't a single soul out there...and even with the snow cover on top, the shore lines were soaked a good 30' out from shore. Also, straight out off stony point, the lake is wide open. No idea what is going on at the North end. Haven't been up at that end in weeks. Just posting what I saw.
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guys, never fished Saratoga Lake...visiting family and would like to come off Fitch rd...how's the ice there...I primarily fish Oneida Lake...looking forward to fish Saratoga as it seems similar to Oneida...any info would be helpful...thank you and good fishing
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How's the ice off of Browns? Want to go out in the morning and not sure if the shore is good.
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guys, never fished Saratoga Lake...visiting family and would like to come off Fitch rd...how's the ice there...I primarily fish Oneida Lake...looking forward to fish Saratoga as it seems similar to Oneida...any info would be helpful...thank you and good fishing
Saw a few people getting on at fitch today so I assume the shore is decent enough.How's the ice off of Browns? Want to go out in the morning and not sure if the shore is good.
No one out today. Shoreline was soaked quite a ways out. Pretty sketchy looking.
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Thanks a lot.
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I took a drive around the lake this morning and found conditions extremely depressing. I thought the recent colder nights would lock things up again - WRONG. There is a huge area open at the north end of the lake, from the Kaydeross over towards (and getting near to ) Fitch. Fish creek is completely open. There is a large polynya off Silver Beach. No one out of South end, no access at Brown's.
There's a handful of guys of Fitch and a couple guys who made it out from the Kayak launch, but the south wind is blowing pretty good. I'm afraid we aren't going to have ice much longer.
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I made it out yesterday on the north side I managed to jig up two descent walleyes one 16 and 18 right before dark the is is pretty thin 20 yards off shore .
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I took a drive around the lake this morning and found conditions extremely depressing. I thought the recent colder nights would lock things up again - WRONG. There is a huge area open at the north end of the lake, from the Kaydeross over towards (and getting near to ) Fitch. Fish creek is completely open. There is a large polynya off Silver Beach. No one out of South end, no access at Brown's.
There's a handful of guys of Fitch and a couple guys who made it out from the Kayak launch, but the south wind is blowing pretty good. I'm afraid we aren't going to have ice much longer.
That's not good. I hope it's not going to be another March female walleye slaughter in the creek again. These warmer winters are definitely pushing the eyes into the creek on the pre-spawn much earlier making them vulnerable before the 15th :-\ Hopefully DEC can get a rule change on the books in a couple years to close the creek off to fishing starting in like January to protect the fish.
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the more we talk about it the more people will show up... just sayin
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So far slow and windy day 7 inches on South end of lake some areas less use caution spud around
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Is there a tournament on this lake on the 11th? Any info will be gratefully appreciated.
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If you're talking about the Quaker Springs FD Tourney on the 11th, it's on the Hudson at Coveville - Rte 4, 4 mile south of Schuylerville
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On the Hudson? Huh yea maybe thats the one I just heard something about a tournament wasn't sure thought it was on Saratoga. That is for the info I appreciate it
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Must be a catch and release tournament? How do they run it?
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Must be a catch and release tournament? How do they run it?
This is their Facebook event about it.https://www.facebook.com/events/1235558589869408/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/1235558589869408/)
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Ya some of you guys talk too much. Any good walleye guy on that lake ain't sharing a lick on here lol. You know who you are.....creeks closed next year party over.
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Ya some of you guys talk too much. Any good walleye guy on that lake ain't sharing a lick on here lol. You know who you are.....creeks closed next year party over.
Yup! Creek is closed for the easy pickers next year! No more stealing breeders!
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The creek it's self closed how about the guys coming down the creek in row boats fishing the mouth in the lake ??
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The creek it's self closed how about the guys coming down the creek in row boats fishing the mouth in the lake ??
That's going to be off limits as well. They are shortening the walleye season on Saratoga by 2 weeks completely. Doesn't matter if they are caught in the lake or the creek, they will be out of season starting next year. If I recall, walleye season on Saratoga will close march 1st instead of the 15th.
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That is correct and about time. Last year was a joke with hundreds of people lining the creek. Had a talk with a guy who had a triple limit. Had a 4 and 5 year old with him Saying that they caught thier limits to. I hope it gets I forced.
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Closed to ALL fishing, then it will be easy to enforce...h2l
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That is correct and about time. Last year was a joke with hundreds of people lining the creek. Had a talk with a guy who had a triple limit. Had a 4 and 5 year old with him Saying that they caught thier limits to. I hope it gets I forced.
That's sickening. Those people are not true sportsmen. DEC should revoke all fishing liscences to those who break the limit on top of fines. Let's remove the people who are hurting our sport completely.
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Fished toga the other day managed 3 smallies all were in the 15"-18" range (one was caught on my ultralight rod on a small tungsten tubby) that was a fun fight lol and 5 jumbos were chasing flags most of the day but seemed to come in spurts.... had a couple walleyes come in and just check out the bait then head on its way... any tips on what they might particularly want? Tried a few different lures and couldn't get em to commit.
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Ya some of you guys talk too much. Any good walleye guy on that lake ain't sharing a lick on here
This man speaks the truth.
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Closed to ALL fishing, then it will be easy to enforce...h2l
Perfect!!!
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Anyone tried access off browns?
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Anyone tried access off browns?
i have private access just up from browns and went out yesterday from 9 til 7pm. the ice was pretty decent getting out on. spudded out through and the ice was around 6 inches and pretty solid for the first 100 yds out. after that it was fine. ice was anywhere's from 7 to 9 inches. caught 15 perch and two short eye's.
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Walleyes in saratoga lake you guys are crazy no such thing
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Ya some of you guys talk too much. Any good walleye guy on that lake ain't sharing a lick on here lol.
Or about any lake.
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Do you guys think the fishing is rebounding in general on Saratoga lake? I keep hearing the chem treatment of weeds has stopped although last summer I cant say the weed growth was all that amazing
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Are people running 4 wheelers out from Browns Beach?
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That is correct and about time. Last year was a joke with hundreds of people lining the creek. Had a talk with a guy who had a triple limit. Had a 4 and 5 year old with him Saying that they caught thier limits to. I hope it gets I forced.
There is a big part of the problem, teaching the next generation how to be slobs!
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Had a 4 and 5 year old with him Saying that they caught thier limits to. I hope it gets I forced.
Only way to prove that he caught the fish would be to have the 4 and 5 year old cast a rod to see if they could use it... if they can unfortunately he is within the regs and theres nothing they can really do about it... but its really no different than having 3 friends fish for eyes through the ice and one guy catches 7 and the other guys each catch 4 they still have their limit.... what they should do is drop the limit down to 3 like oneida
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I only fish Toga once a year, but thanks to you guys I am watching the Lake cam a couple times a week! :o
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Any word on shore access? Either Browns or Fitch Rd. Im sure the cold has helped but before my fat A goes out in the morning I figured I would check lol.
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Went off of Browns today the shore was fine.
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Browns should be fine for walking... Fitch is ok to get on but giant open water spot almost all the way across the lake from outflow from kayadeross. Some of that open spot may have froze last night so anything without snow on it is a no go. Pretty much have to hug the eastern bank off fitch or stay shallower.
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Any sketch spots off browns I know there was a big ridge before
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Any sketch spots off browns I know there was a big ridge before
after the warm up that ridge resided it wasn't there last weekend ice was good 7 inches and it was cold this week so it should have only added to what we already had off of Browns beach
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Watch it getting on at Brown's. Looked like some open water off the "beach" area yesterday.
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Anyone brave the snow today off browns?! Going to give it a shot early tomorrow if anyone wants to buddy up
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yes tough walking deep snow good perch bite caught a pair of 14 inches today real slobs
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I landed a real slob off browns beech the other day 24 inch 6 lb walleye what a beauty
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Didn't see anybody else out on the north end yesterday. Had 5-7" in all the holes I drilled. At least 12" of snow on top. Slowest day I've had on toga this season. Hoping today is better.
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Any slush out there or still pretty dry?
Didn't see anybody else out on the north end yesterday. Had 5-7" in all the holes I drilled. At least 12" of snow on top. Slowest day I've had on toga this season. Hoping today is better.
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Any slush out there or still pretty dry?
It was dry on Monday but very slushy in spots now. Expect a good 2-3" of slush on top of the ice. Some places were worse than others but overall be prepared to get wet if you're going to try to head out.
If heading out from finch rd, be careful as you head out towards the middle. it looks like the lakes water level rose since Monday. I had made a snow fort to block the wind Monday and when I returned Tuesday, there was a thin ice layer that had formed all around the fort, looking like it was extending out towards where the open water hole in the middle of the lake is, and there was almost an 1.5" of water between the ice layers. I didn't continue heading out further to test it but I wanted to give everyone a heads up to be extra careful out there.
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Expect a good 2-3" of slush on top of the ice.
Not what I wanted to hear.... anyone get out today? Looking for an update on the slush conditions
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I'm headed out tommrow morning, will send in a report after
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Browns beach has some spots where it's slushy and wet, mostly it's packed down hard snow. Ice is around 8 inches thick. Bite was ok
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Browns beach has some spots where it's slushy and wet, mostly it's packed down hard snow. Ice is around 8 inches thick. Bite was ok
thanks for the update
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Wow 8" whoda thunk
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Does anyone know about how many inches are on Saratoga Lake. Also will the upcoming week end weather of 41° weather make the ice unsafe?
look up 3 posts..... ???
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where is the best place to access the lake if you do not live on it.
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Browns beach at the southern end of the lake. Big gravel parking lot. Good luck!
where is the best place to access the lake if you do not live on it.
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Browns beach at the southern end of the lake. Big gravel parking lot. Good luck!
is it going to be safe this weekend with the warm weather coming in
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is it going to be safe this weekend with the warm weather coming in
Saratoga shorelines are always iffy, especially when it gets warm. FYI: Its pretty shallow right near shore there.
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what are you able to catch off browns?
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what are you able to catch off browns?
a cold, wet feet, a sunburn and fish silly.... :roflmao: :icefish:
perch walleye pickerel bass sunfish ya know the normal stuff people catch get out there and find out!
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Just wondering because we are visiting this weekend... is saratoga lake safe to eat from?
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Just wondering because we are visiting this weekend... is saratoga lake safe to eat from?
Yes it is
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Just wondering because we are visiting this weekend... is saratoga lake safe to eat from?
But I wouldn't drink from it.
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how the fishing at the north end of the lake.. is the north end frozen near Waterfront park or fish creek
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how the fishing at the north end of the lake.. is the north end frozen near Waterfront park or fish creek
north end of the lake?
bring a boat.
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north end of the lake?
bring a boat.
Is it not frozen... like near the Union Rd bridge at fish creek
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Is it not frozen... like near the Union Rd bridge at fish creek
That whole upper half of the lake only glazed over at the last real cold night. After this weekend, it will be wide open again. Drove by on Thursday and it was starting to open already. ... before it glazed over, you could take a boat right out of the launch and go all the way to mannings cove....and fish creek around the launch has been wide open all year.
South end is a different story besides off stony point. Open water over there as well...judging by the reports here, I would guess browns beach area is the only solid area on the lake with walk on access.
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Drove by fitch and browns on my way back from schroon probably about 40 people at each will be giving one a shot in the morning
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Gonna give the night bite a try if anyone wants to fish
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we are going out to browns tomorrow morning/late... will it still be pretty safe?
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Fished the South end Saturday had about 8 inches of ice and and a couple inches of slop on top the nite was pretty good one keeper walleye 22 inches and 15 perch and 4 crappie and a bunch of pickeral good toga day might be my last with temps going way up
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does anyone know of where to go for bluegills and perch off browns beach? How far out do we need to go and what baits are the best.
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Fished the South end Saturday had about 8 inches of ice and and a couple inches of slop on top the nite was pretty good one keeper walleye 22 inches and 15 perch and 4 crappie and a bunch of pickeral good toga day might be my last with temps going way up
Where did u fish for the panfish
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I left early afternoon but do you think tomorrow will be ok to fish?
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does anyone know of where to go for bluegills and perch off browns beach? How far out do we need to go and what baits are the best.
I would stay fairly shallow for bluegills - where the weeds start to thin out (8-10'). Unfortunately, with the recent snow pack I think the weeds have died and that's not good for fishing. Before the snow the weeds were still green.
I found perch in 13-15 FOW recently in very large schools but they were tiny. Lit up the screen of my LX-7. I think you just need to move around to catch the occasional larger fish. Maybe something that imitates the little perch (a fire tiger jigging rapala or similar) would work. Two years ago on lake george the larger perch were barfing up little ones quite often when you iced them.
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Just got off the lake. About 8-10 inches of ice and the slush froze over. Great fishing. We got 5 LMBs a few perch, a pike, and gills.
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Any updates on browns beach area ?
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I was out today. Ice was still good (8-9") although the top was getting soft when I quit at 11am. No problem getting on at Brown's, but only 3 other guys on the South end of the lake this morning.
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I was out today. Ice was still good (8-9") although the top was getting soft when I quit at 11am. No problem getting on at Brown's, but only 3 other guys on the South end of the lake this morning.
Thanks, supposed to be having a tourney there on Saturday. Hope it makes it till then .
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Thanks, supposed to be having a tourney there on Saturday. Hope it makes it till then .
i don't think it's going to happen with warm up and rain on the way it won't be safe for a tourney
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I canceled it today.. Worst hard water season ever !!
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Sorry to hear we were hoping to get out one last time too fishing had been good it's a shame
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Just got off Fitch - managed 8 nice gills - then the rain came, got pretty wet - 6"-8" of ice out 100 yds. (8 FoW)a bit sketchier out deeper - edges were a lot softer than when I came off yesterday - any appreciable rain and it's over. No one else out anywhere.
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has the lake iced out yet??
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has the lake iced out yet??
About 5 days ago
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Is there enough ice to protect the walleye preparing to spawn in the Kayaderosseras??????
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Is there enough ice to protect the walleye preparing to spawn in the Kayaderosseras??????
Nope, I heard they were pushing for a March 1st end of the season to help alleviate the pressure but that's not the case this year...
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That's too bad. I don't think the March 1 rule is in place as of now, so the boats are probably tied to each other at the mouth of the creek...
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March 1st rule is in affect next year. Not this year....so The Wolf's will still be down there until the 15th stealing multiple limits each day.
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No ice anywhere - only thing we can hope is the wind stays up so it's too rough for boats - except then we won't be able to get on the flats for gills and crappies - guess we'll have to hope ethics rule the day
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It really stinks that this same thing happened several years ago and NOW next year it will be in place. The people headed there certainly don't care about our present and future resources but to increase their own personal gain. NOT SPORTSMAN in my book. I don't fish there but this thing could have ripple effects from the owners around the lake further reducing access.
Kim ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
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It does suck but if it's advertised too much on the net that isn't going to reduce the pressure on those fish at all.
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It does suck but if it's advertised too much on the net that isn't going to reduce the pressure on those fish at all.
^^^ What he said... I bet most people on here go there and fish the spot as well they just keep their limits.... if its open season honestly I don't have an issue with people fishing over there if they keep there limit.... the DEC officers could get a very nice meal if they wanted to ;D
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March 1st rule is in affect next year. Not this year....so The Wolf's will still be down there until the 15th stealing multiple limits each day.
Unless DEC comes up with an emergency regulation change, which is very uncommon, you will not see a March 1 closing of walleye season as a special Saratoga County (lake) regulation until after April 1, 2019. The reason is that DEC just issued a series of regulation changes and they only do this every two years. So, it won't actually be realized until March, 2020.
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March 1st rule is in affect next year. Not this year....so The Wolf's will still be down there until the 15th stealing multiple limits each day.
Nothing in the new proposed rules looks like its game on
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Dec should entertain the idea of a slot limit and possible 3 fish limit. then people can still enjoy casting for walleye during the prime time. I'm sure it's been a tradition to many anglers to go catch them this time of the year. I bet there are atleast a dozen guys that are bent there changing things. And the only reason it's an issue is because social media has instantly made every one a good angler, not great anglers but anyone with half a brain can search and find in great detail how to catch a specific fish, where to catch, what time to catch. All the guess work has been taken out and plastered all over the internet...this years ice season for me was the most anoyed I've ever been. Literally watched a place go from a population of 5 guys in a day to 25 before I stopped going. Coulda been up 50 from how things were headin due to social media. Word would spread back in the day in passing but now it's viewed by half a million people in a matter of seconds if you have the followers on twitter. It's only going to get worse I feel. The amount of anglers is increasing while our lakes and rivers remain the same size.
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Dec should entertain the idea of a slot limit and possible 3 fish limit. then people can still enjoy casting for walleye during the prime time. I'm sure it's been a tradition to many anglers to go catch them this time of the year. I bet there are atleast a dozen guys that are bent there changing things. And the only reason it's an issue is because social media has instantly made every one a good angler, not great anglers but anyone with half a brain can search and find in great detail how to catch a specific fish, where to catch, what time to catch. All the guess work has been taken out and plastered all over the internet...this years ice season for me was the most anoyed I've ever been. Literally watched a place go from a population of 5 guys in a day to 25 before I stopped going. Coulda been up 50 from how things were headin due to social media. Word would spread back in the day in passing but now it's viewed by half a million people in a matter of seconds if you have the followers on twitter. It's only going to get worse I feel. The amount of anglers is increasing while our lakes and rivers remain the same size.
great post Andy,I have been crying slot limits for years for all species in all lakes.I personally look at other states and province that have slot limits and look at the fisheries there they are fantastic with lots of trophy fish to be caught along with great eating size fish......the best of both worlds
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Dec should entertain the idea of a slot limit and possible 3 fish limit. then people can still enjoy casting for walleye during the prime time. I'm sure it's been a tradition to many anglers to go catch them this time of the year. I bet there are atleast a dozen guys that are bent there changing things. And the only reason it's an issue is because social media has instantly made every one a good angler, not great anglers but anyone with half a brain can search and find in great detail how to catch a specific fish, where to catch, what time to catch. All the guess work has been taken out and plastered all over the internet...this years ice season for me was the most anoyed I've ever been. Literally watched a place go from a population of 5 guys in a day to 25 before I stopped going. Coulda been up 50 from how things were headin due to social media. Word would spread back in the day in passing but now it's viewed by half a million people in a matter of seconds if you have the followers on twitter. It's only going to get worse I feel. The amount of anglers is increasing while our lakes and rivers remain the same size.
I agree with slot limits too. Great idea and happy to oblige. I think most decent anglers do it already on their own.
As for social media and fishing...it's definitely changed things. I made myself leave a lesser known pike spot in the Berkshires because there was 30 people on it by 7am...prior to it being mentioned on the Web several times maybe 3 or 4 groups was average...this 600 acre lake had 10-12 groups before the sun was up...
The beauty of it though is you can still go where the lemmings will not or do not go. Mainly spots that don't have giant boat launches, gas stations near by, ect.
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5 nice eyes caught and released 4 of which were female just enjoy the bend of a open water rod. Couple morons decided to keep females makes me sick seeing that.
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Water temp is still 34/35 degrees in most places and when I was out yesterday, I marked most of my fish deep. Didn't sound/see like anybody was catching much and I was out all day until 5. 4 fish on the day, 3 females & 1 male with the largest weighing in at #2.4 - all released. Only one group fishing from shore that I noticed. Unfortunately though, its going to be a long 7 days to close out the season. I have family who live over there that say the parking lot is filled with cars almost every night now :(
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Will not help by putting ANY info on here....h2l
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I have fished Saratoga a few times but far fromany kind of lake expert ,I guess my question is ,why the fear most years you'd still be on the ice hammering them whats wrong with people doing it in open water ? I would assume after such a easy winter a lot of fish usually taken during the ice are still swimming .....
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As far as fish not taken during ice season, I think I personally heard of more eyes being taken this season then any season iv been paying attention to toga. As far as why its the open water guys its because they stack up in a creek and pluck breeders out one right after another.
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I just drove by and the parking lot, although very small, it was completely filled with walleye pirates. I know it's legal, and if someone wants to keep and eat a limit of males, I'm cool with that. But you know there are those that are going for a stringer of the biggest fish they can get and will keep all females. I fish Toga eyes a lot in the open water season and it seems the walleye fishing has improved a little over the past few years, it's still nothing like it used to be and no where close to sacandaga in numbers. These guys pulling out the female breeders are not true fisherman. Being a true fisherman isn't about how many or how big of fish you can catch, a true fisherman does what's right for sustainability of the body of water they are fishing on.
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Maybee dec should make the regulations more gender specific? The walleye pirates, or wolfes you guys speak of are doing absolutely nothing wrong. It just sucks that everyone and there brother now does it. Targeting a fish during its spawn is nothing new we do it to stripers and salmon all the time.
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76,609,680 walleye stocked in Saratoga Lake by DEC 2011-15. Does not look like this is a self-sustaining fishery. If it's legal, keep it!
http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/23233.html (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/23233.html)
https://data.ny.gov/Recreation/Fish-Stocking-Lists-Actual-Beginning-2011/e52k-ymww (https://data.ny.gov/Recreation/Fish-Stocking-Lists-Actual-Beginning-2011/e52k-ymww)
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I guess I'm just not getting the difference between taking pre spawn walleyes threw the eyes compared to threw open water........ and if one only takes a legal limit ,in legal water ,using legal tactics then whats wrong?
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I agree trapper might as well close deer season during the rut. ::)
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I guess I'm just not getting the difference between taking pre spawn walleyes threw the eyes compared to threw open water........ and if one only takes a legal limit ,in legal water ,using legal tactics then whats wrong?
I think the issue is that it was alleged last year (just from what i read and heard around town) is that people were taking there legal limits back to their vehicle and starting all over again.
Several people i know reported the abuse and nothing was done about it.
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I guess I'm just not getting the difference between taking pre spawn walleyes threw the eyes compared to threw open water........ and if one only takes a legal limit ,in legal water ,using legal tactics then whats wrong?
In my eyes, there isn't any difference between somebody keeping a large female through the ice or via open water - it's just wrong. The larger the female is, the more offspring she produces. Those offspring generally have a much higher chance of survival as well as increased growth factors in the fry as oppose to smaller breeding females. Bigger fish have better genes and it's those genes we want to sustain the population.
Since the Kayaderosseras is the main spawning location for walleyes in the lake, it concentrates all the fish making those large females much easier to catch. Couple that with greedy fishermen, and you get yourself a situation where people limit out day after day with large pre spawn females.
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In my eyes, there isn't any difference between somebody keeping a large female through the ice or via open water - it's just wrong. The larger the female is, the more offspring she produces. Those offspring generally have a much higher chance of survival as well as increased growth factors in the fry as oppose to smaller breeding females. Bigger fish have better genes and it's those genes we want to sustain the population.
Since the Kayaderosseras is the main spawning location for walleyes in the lake, it concentrates all the fish making those large females much easier to catch. Couple that with greedy fishermen, and you get yourself a situation where people limit out day after day with large pre spawn females.
well the state biologist, the NYDEC , and state legislature all disagree with you . not to mention the state put in 8.5 million walleyes in in a year period I think and this is opinion , your looking for a boogy man . these guys are simply fishing
I think the issue is that it was alleged last year (just from what i read and heard around town) is that people were taking there legal limits back to their vehicle and starting all over again.
Several people i know reported the abuse and nothing was done about it.
not saying this isn't possiable but when ever I have called the DEC it was a fairly quick response and the infomation gave including boat numbers and licence plate numbers were taken and used .....this is not to say there isn't poachers that would take over their limit ...^5 to your friends that made the call
keep in mind these are all opinions and what counts is following the law
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keep in mind these are all opinions and what counts is following the law
Well said
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So .... where do i park? ;D
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:roflmao: next to me ;D
with 8,600,000 eyes going in a year I'd say the words put and take should ring a bell
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They could close it to ALL fishing as they do here...h2l
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well the state biologist, the NYDEC , and state legislature all disagree with you . not to mention the state put in 8.5 million walleyes in in a year period I think and this is opinion , your looking for a boogy man . these guys are simply fishing
Wouldn't the fact the state is changing the regulations to prohibit all fishing in that location from march 15 to march 1st actually mean they agree with me? I'm also not looking for a boogie man, I don't care they're fishing there. I have no issue with harvesting fish and have no issue with harvesting up to the state mandated limit. My issue is, whether legally or illegally, the harvesting of large females of any species. It's not beneficial for a species to be harvesting the largest fish in the population. It causes a gradual shift over time towards a smaller average fish, reduces the viability of spawn, and reduces the total amount of eggs. I'm a firm believe of slot limits for this exact reason. Let the big ones go so they can keep producing strong healthy offspring and keep the smaller slot fish for eating.
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My issue is, whether legally or illegally, the harvesting of large females of any species. It's not beneficial for a species to be harvesting the largest fish in the population. It causes a gradual shift over time towards a smaller average fish, reduces the viability of spawn, and reduces the total amount of eggs. I'm a firm believe of slot limits for this exact reason. Let the big ones go so they can keep producing strong healthy offspring and keep the smaller slot fish for eating.
you sure about that? Not going to take fecundity and fertility into account? The fact that those big fish already spread their genes when they were smaller and in their prime? The fact that after age 8, the big females may carry more eggs, but far fewer actually hatch and make it to fry stage?
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:roflmao: next to me ;D
with 8,600,000 eyes going in a year I'd say the words put and take should ring a bell
Trap, do you know what 8 million walleye they stock looks like when they dump them in? You can fit them in a sandwich bag.
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Trap, do you know what 8 million walleye they stock looks like when they dump them in? You can fit them in a sandwich bag.
Exactly,most of what they stock ends up being food for all the other fish in the lake the first year they're put in.
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It's interesting to see slot limits mentioned.
I will be the first to say i don't know enough about this stuff so I can't offer an opinion but it's funny to see all of the striper crowd hating on slot limits while they are spoken well of here.
What's the difference? I know with the stripers it's because they see a lot of floaters that didn't survive the release.
Thoughts?
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Bottom line is the party will be over when they change the regs to march 1 closing for the lake and creek. This all started 15 years or more ago with 1 or 2 people figuring out they could catch a few before the season was over if the weather/ice conditions/open water were perfect for them to run up the creek before the season closed. That turned into those 1 or 2 taking a friend and then those friends taking friends and then it ended up posted on the shanty a few years ago and we all can figure out how many people know about it now. With the amount of complaints to raybrook and Albany last year of gross over the limit complaints the 3 dec officers we have could not keep up with or be in 50 pulloff spots at once so there was a lot of outright poaching going on and thus the reason for the new regs that are coming at some point.Those that live here around the kaydee between toga and ballston saw the sh#tshow around here last 2 seasons and looks like this years is shaping up to be the same because everyone knows its coming to an end and they're all trying for one last time.
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you sure about that? Not going to take fecundity and fertility into account? The fact that those big fish already spread their genes when they were smaller and in their prime? The fact that after age 8, the big females may carry more eggs, but far fewer actually hatch and make it to fry stage?
Yes I am. I've read plenty of studies throughout my schooling, marine biology major from UNCW, that show a positive coorilation in the ability of eggs born by large breeder females to have a higher survival rate as oppose to ones born to smaller fish. There are always other factors that will effect the spawn however as a general statement, this holds true more often than not.
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As for the slot limit, I don't striper fish enough to have the knowledge to comment specifically on that. I support slot limits in general because it keeps the big fish that everyone wants to catch in the water while still accommodating those that want to take home something for the table as well.
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Yes I am. I've read plenty of studies throughout my schooling, marine biology major from UNCW, that show a positive coorilation in the ability of eggs born by large breeder females to have a higher survival rate as oppose to ones born to smaller fish. There are always other factors that will effect the spawn however as a general statement, this holds true more often than not.
Very cool, theres a bunch of us on here. Studied fisheries for 4 years myself. I remember some of the papers I cited in my work spoke about the positive relationship of fecundity to weight, but that actual survival of fertilized eggs was significantly lower with older fish with lower body condition indices (K). Of course it is interesting to note that walleye populations have shown "flexibility" in that heavily exploited populations will actually have a higher fecundity in comparison with similar, nearby less exploited fish stocks.
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Wonder if every ones still gonna complain when they change the regs,and guys still hammer them from mid feb-march. Any one remember back in the day when a person said "wow where did you catch that" and your fathers responce was, "secret spot". If you ever wondered why they wouldn't tell, now you know....might as well claim every eye you catch is from toga. Keep the crowd there to preserve other honey holes... the lake will eventually get just as crowded in the winter as it is mid summer.....enjoy!!!
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76,609,680 walleye stocked in Saratoga Lake by DEC 2011-15. Does not look like this is a self-sustaining fishery. If it's legal, keep it!
http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/23233.html (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/23233.html)
https://data.ny.gov/Recreation/Fish-Stocking-Lists-Actual-Beginning-2011/e52k-ymww (https://data.ny.gov/Recreation/Fish-Stocking-Lists-Actual-Beginning-2011/e52k-ymww)
The DEC stated they stocked over 11 Million in 2015 and over 13 Million each year for the previous 4 years. I'm sure some are eaten by other fish. But then again the newly hatched fry are eaten by a lot more fish!
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Very cool, theres a bunch of us on here. Studied fisheries for 4 years myself. I remember some of the papers I often cited in my work spoke about the positive relationship of fecundity to weight, but that actual survival of fertilized eggs was significantly lower with older fish with lower body condition indices (K). Of course it is interesting to note that walleye populations have shown "flexibility" in that heavily exploited populations will actually have a higher fecundity in comparison with similar, nearby less exploited fish stocks.
I didn't know that walleye have shown flexibility in heavily exploited populations, thanks for the tidbit. It's always cool to see a species adjust like that e.g. Coyotes. It makes sense to see the oldest breeding females who's body condition starts to decline to see a similar reduction in fecundity. Most reproductive success when compared to age is on some type of bell curve.
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Guys, the walleye they stock are fry. Those millions in stocking numbers you are reading are about 1/4" in size. They stock Simms y because so many don't make it. The survival rate to a grown adult stocked in the fry stage is next to nothing when you look at the big picture.
Anyways, looking at the weather we have coming....the walleye pickers season will be coming to a end very shortly other then being out of season.
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They all start out as fry in lakes with no stocking. Maybe it is the truck ride that is killing them...h2l
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Guys, the walleye they stock are fry. Those millions in stocking numbers you are reading are about 1/4" in size. They stock Simms y because so many don't make it. The survival rate to a grown adult stocked in the fry stage is next to nothing when you look at the big picture.
DEC states they are twice that size
Water (Town) Number Species Size in inches
Saratoga Lake 11509680 Walleye 0.5
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DEC states they are twice that size
Water (Town) Number Species Size in inches
Saratoga Lake 11509680 Walleye 0.5
just like DEC says the browns from the van hornesville hatchery are 8" when they are stocked, right?? LOL!
here's what a couple million walleye look like about to be stocked
(http://i.imgur.com/uHHqR7r.jpg)
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DEC states they are twice that size
Water (Town) Number Species Size in inches
Saratoga Lake 11509680 Walleye 0.5
1/4-1/2"... what's the difference? Both are still eaten by bluegills, perch, bullhead, crappie, pickerel, bass, pike etc.
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1/4-1/2"... what's the difference? Both are still eaten by bluegills, perch, bullhead, crappie, pickerel, bass, pike etc.
1/4"
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1/4"
:laugh:
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Be glad to take them in Sacandaga....h2l
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1/4-1/2"... what's the difference? Both are still eaten by bluegills, perch, bullhead, crappie, pickerel, bass, pike etc.
if that's the case tell the state to lift the restricted blue gill limit on the lake and let me sell crappies again and I personally will save the lives of millions of walleyes that otherwise would have been eaten ;D
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Tomhannock doesn't alow fishing open water fishing during the months of January 1 threw march 15
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Tomhannock doesn't alow fishing open water fishing during the months of January 1 threw march 15
That's not true. The ice fishing season on the Tommy is January 1st through March 15th but you can open water fish it 12 months a year as long as you're not in the shore fishing restricted zone on the west shore.
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just like DEC says the browns from the van hornesville hatchery are 8" when they are stocked, right?? LOL!
here's what a couple million walleye look like about to be stocked
(http://i.imgur.com/uHHqR7r.jpg)
same size as they stock in Oneida lake
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Have to check it out yum yum ::)
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Fisheries Management
Oneida Lake is the main egg collection location for walleye in New York State. The NYSDEC Oneida Fish Hatchery in Constantia collects over 300 million walleye eggs a year from Oneida Lake. The resulting walleye fry and fingerlings are stocked throughout New York State. Oneida Lake is stocked annually with around 150 million walleye fry.
http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41034.html (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41034.html)
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well its the 15th. Looks like walleye aren't gonna get fishing pressure on their spawning runs.
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no biggy ,now the people will just have to find something else to blame because they can't catch fish
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Some brave soul is out off Brown's this morning. The lake is frozen south of Snake Hill. It froze before the snow storm and now it looks as though the snow has incorporated into the ice, making a hard surface (how thick???). It would have been a lot thicker had it not been so windy on those real cold days prior to the snow.
This is the first year is my memory that the lake has refrozen enough for fishing this late in the year.
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Thats crazy lol
Some brave soul is out off Brown's this morning. The lake is frozen south of Snake Hill. It froze before the snow storm and now it looks as though the snow has incorporated into the ice, making a hard surface (how thick???). It would have been a lot thicker had it not been so windy on those real cold days prior to the snow.
This is the first year is my memory that the lake has refrozen enough for fishing this late in the year.
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Someone was out this afternoon too.... INFO???
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I would like to know also if browns is frozen then there has to be enough to fish but a report would be great lol
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you guys live there grab a spud and take a walk
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Im 40 min From toga or i would lol
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Same guy was out today. I'm tempted to at least find out how thick it is.
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Im 40 min From toga or i would lol
Im 2 hours away and I will! ;D
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Lol go for it let me know ;D
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Wonder if every ones still gonna complain when they change the regs,and guys still hammer them from mid feb-march. Any one remember back in the day when a person said "wow where did you catch that" and your fathers responce was, "secret spot". If you ever wondered why they wouldn't tell, now you know....might as well claim every eye you catch is from toga. Keep the crowd there to preserve other honey holes... the lake will eventually get just as crowded in the winter as it is mid summer.....enjoy!!!
I love this!!! My thoughts exactly. Let the people who don't know the first thing about walleye wipe them out when they are spawning. All the true walleye guys still have their spots elsewhere @)As for the guys posting pics and bragging about limiting out catching spawning walleye you should be ashamed. Poor knowledge and respect for the resource is what it boils down to.
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All the true walleye guys still have their spots elsewhere @)As for the guys posting pics and bragging about limiting out catching spawning walleye you should be ashamed. Poor knowledge and respect for the resource is what it boils down to.
You know it. Should have seen the scummy crap posted on facebook by people calling themselves "anglers". Worst part is you know every single one of those creek caught fish on stringers was snagged.
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Honestly red, I don't know. The angler or possibly the observer does . Maybe we are all snagger (s), lol
I have foul hooked almost every species I caught at one point in my life. Yup ,lakers through the ice to salmon trolling the lake, even a striper jigging a sabiki. It happens .
To me there are snaggers, and there are incidentally foul hooked fish . If the latter because routine then it no longer becomes incidentally. I , we , understand even under all intentions and legal methods , tossing something into a pod of confined fish will result in a bend what happens from there becomes ethics and legality. I prefer ethics.
Now all this Internet ddiscussions about game fish no doubt even have me intrigued. I don't like crowds in the least but wouldn't mind "checking out " the tribs and lakes like toga and Oneida. You guys can have lake George, lol
But my point being, there is no secret sports once they hit the www.
If you post it , they will come
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You know it. Should have seen the scummy crap posted on facebook by people calling themselves "anglers". Worst part is you know every single one of those creek caught fish on stringers was snagged.
I haven't been paying attention....was it really that bad again this year?
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I haven't been paying attention....was it really that bad again this year?
plenty of hero stringer shots going around on the facebook groups. I have no problem with keeping eyes. I keep a few limits every summer myself. But man, when they are concentrated up in the creek and spawning (ie; not feeding) and the only way to get them is to snag them with stick baits, it just does not seem very sporting to me.
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In the early 1970's we had some late winters and I got in on the walleye spawning at Sacandaga. The fish were still in the river after the regular opening of the walleye season (first Saturday in May).
We caught quite a few, but they were all males - and all of a size -up to 19" or so. A jig with a minnow was deadly.
My understanding is the females will go up and spawn and come back to the lake very quickly. So an individual female would be in the river a short time, but they didn't all spawn at once but over a period of a week or two. The males go up the river and hang around for a while, waiting for more females to come. We would hook a male and 3 or 4 others would follow him to the boat trying to spawn. Trying to unhook them they would spray sperm all over.
So I don't buy that the only way to catch them is by snagging.
I have lived on or very near Saratoga Lake for 40 years and have never thought of harassing the walleyes in the Kaydeross. In those cold winter years in the early 1970's a friend told me he had (legally, after season opener) caught them on Rapala type baits under the Northway bridges, and some of those were females.
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It's awesome when its legal and they slam the stick baits. Should be a better opener with the cold water sticking around.
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In the early 1970's we had some late winters and I got in on the walleye spawning at Sacandaga. The fish were still in the river after the regular opening of the walleye season (first Saturday in May).
yep, everyone used to hang around the northville bridge at opening day. My dad and his friends all used to do it, it was a communal type thing.
I have lived on or very near Saratoga Lake for 40 years and have never thought of harassing the walleyes in the Kaydeross. In those cold winter years in the early 1970's a friend told me he had (legally, after season opener) caught them on Rapala type baits under the Northway bridges, and some of those were females.
those post spawn walleyes, of course they smack lures, they are HUNGRY!! Walleyes feed heavily immediately pre and post spawn, but when they are in the act of actually spawning however, they do not feed.
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The last bit of ice on the (south end of the) lake blew out Sunday. It's now officially over. Boats off Brown's now.
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I have a little bass raider boat is it cool to launch off browns ? Just a little trolling motor
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No But I would suggest state launch its free right now..
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Recent DEC ECO report:
Read the Sign … More Closely – Saratoga County
On the evening of April 14, ECO Rob Higgins was off duty, driving along the Kayaderosseras Creek in the city of Saratoga, when he noticed a vehicle parked on the side of the road. The lower section of the creek is closed to fishing at this time of the year to protect spawning walleye. ECO Higgins walked down the creek a short distance and found two men fishing. ECO Higgins asked them if the walleye were running yet and one of the men replied that he wasn’t sure, but he “hooked into something big.” The man then pointed to the sign right next to him, which read that fishing was prohibited during the closed season for walleye. He believed the sign meant that only walleye fishing was prohibited, not all fishing. ECO Higgins contacted ECO Mark Klein, who was on duty at the time. ECO Klein arrived and advised the two men that they were in violation for fishing the closed section of the Kayaderosseras Creek. One man was issued a violation for fishing without a license and another violation for fishing in the closed section of the Kayaderosseras Creek. The other man was also issued a violation for fishing in the closed section of the creek.
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Well boys it wont be long now... excited to see what happens this weekend. That W word is going to be key.
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W hadn’t been as bad as yesterday. We’ll see what the next few days hold
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Huge flight of snow geese took off from the south end of the lake Wednesday morning, first I've seen this fall. If the wind would die tonight we'd have some ice tomorrow. I'm wondering if the ice eaters just north of the bridge are going to keep that area totally free of ice like it was last year.
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Fingers crossed it goes tonight...
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I live in Lake George pretty close to Saratoga lake and I have only fished it once in the winter. it looks like some folks are really excited about getting onto Saratoga this year, What type of size does Saratoga hold for fish? I have always had much better luck at other lakes just wondering what everyone's opinions on the quality of the fishing in this lake compared to the many other choices. Are the walleye or panfish getting big?
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Saratogalakecam.com shows what looks to be ice. I haven't gone to get my paper yet so can't confirm.
Saratoga Lake is noted for large panfish, although the fishing has deteriorated in the past few years, possibly due to aggressive weed removal during the summer. There are good walleyes but not many catch them. The pike fishing has gone to hell in the last few years. You catch quite a few largemouths and pickerel through the ice.
No where near as good as LG, but it is convenient and of course is frozen a couple of months before LG.
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I live in Lake George pretty close to Saratoga lake and I have only fished it once in the winter. it looks like some folks are really excited about getting onto Saratoga this year, What type of size does Saratoga hold for fish? I have always had much better luck at other lakes just wondering what everyone's opinions on the quality of the fishing in this lake compared to the many other choices. Are the walleye or panfish getting big?
There are better options north of LG that are the same distance away as Saratoga.
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This morning's ice but was a teaser. The slight breeze has disconnected it from the shore and its going fast.
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Drove around Saratoga lake 8 oclock this morning the whole lake is capped over hopping the wind don't brake it up
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If you look at he weather we have coming in this week, it won’t last.
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What is wrong with that if it is completely froze that should put enough on to survive a little bit of possible rain this weekend.
(https://s7.postimg.cc/92vyatplz/IMG_1789.png) (https://postimg.cc/image/92vyatplz/)
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Drove by this morning and most of the lake is capped but looked like a huge open section coming out from south of mannings north to kayadeross. Will be important to keep that in mind later in the season. Obviously the rest of the lake is still not safe and the near forecast isn't looking extremely promising. I think will be an after xmas start.
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The South end and North end both have some ice but in between there's nothing. Saw one eagle out in the middle on the edge of the ice at the north end and another circling overhead today. Fish creek and south of the bridge both have ice but it looks very thin.
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How’s it shaping up for New Years with the week of cold weather ahead of us?
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I checked it Friday afternoon was only a inch. Should be ready next weekend. All depends on this snow coming if it floods and slushes up it will be weak snow ice but will be something.
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Has anyone checked out the ice today?
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Still some open water once you get north of snake hill. South end is froze but before it snowed there was water seeping out of a number of big cracks near Brown's. BTW, have people noticed the small sailboat off Brown's that didn't get taken out of the water? Wonder what happened there. Its there until Spring now. A prime target for vandalization during the next couple of months, and also a hazard for nighttime sledders.
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Yes I've heard about the beached Sail boat. Apparently the owner was notified but didn't have a way to retrieve it due to it being stuck deep in sand. I would imagine he has some fines coming his way pretty soon.
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Yes I've heard about the beached Sail boat. Apparently the owner was notified but didn't have a way to retrieve it due to it being stuck deep in sand.
Yeah, the lake is EXTREMELY low! I have not seen the lake this low I'm a long time!
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The association must have pulled out an extra splash board out of the dam at Grangerville. Most people aren't aware there is a dam controlling the height of Saratoga Lake. Now my 13' readings are down to 9'. This means a lot to me as I am a panfish pursuer. Good luck everyone.
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Any updates on ice?
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Was two guys in the creek yesterday when I drove by not far off the dock. Can't be much ice.
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Hopefully wind cut down snow depth/insulation so we get the freeze. ;D
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Anyone know if there's a thread on Lonely?
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Anyone know if there's a thread on Lonely?
Just a conditions page:
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=13721.0
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I have yet to do any ice fishing on Saratoga lake. Hope to get out there a few times this year.
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I have yet to do any ice fishing on Saratoga lake. Hope to get out there a few times this year.
It's alright... I think a little over fished year round. That said, I moved to Saratoga from Washington county this year so I'll surely be out I the lake.
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Away for Boxing day. When I returned home this evening there were 4 guys out on the ice on the South end not far from Brown's.
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Away for Boxing day. When I returned home this evening there were 4 guys out on the ice on the South end not far from Brown's.
Any idea on how much ice?
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Away for Boxing day. When I returned home this evening there were 4 guys out on the ice on the South end not far from Brown's.
The kids playing ice hockey just north of the parking lot on the shoe ice? Those were the only 4 that I saw when I drive by...🤔
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Few guys off browns beach today....rest of lake looks sketchy....wont be long
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Does anyone have a measurement just off of Brown's Beach? Or how about pics?
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Does anyone have a measurement just off of Brown's Beach? Or how about pics?
You can check the lake cam.
http://saratogalakecam.com/
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Will do thank you
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Thanks for the link, I just checked and it looked like someone was out there hope he gives a report on the ice thickness.
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Hi Guys,
Just an update on the lake level and the webcams. The lake association does not control the lake level. It is controlled by ENEL, the power company operating the dam in Victory Mills. The lake level right now is not unusual. It is lowered to just below 201ft each winter to prevent flooding in the spring, where we can see the level rise a foot in a week. 203.5 is the normal level during the warm months.
I plan on adjusting one of the webcams tomorrow so that it's focused on the Brown's Beach activity. Didn't get to it today during the daylight.
I won't be hitting the ice until after this cold spell, but for now I'm fine watching you guys freeze from my nice warm sunroom.
For everyone parking at Brown's, remember to pick up after yourselves. I recall there being some comments from the town last year about garbage being left behind.
Steve
Saratogalakecam.com
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Thanks Lakesteve! I really like that camera! I check every day. I bet that's a great sun room! :)
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That Steve is. A real thinker ! Upper management written all over him👍
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Lakesteve your absolutely right about people being hawgs last year... just don't understand the concept of throwing ur crap on the ground for someone else to worry about... I mean you took the effort to bring it In the first place. Let's now ruin a good parking place. Or we will end up paying or even kicked out...
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Spudded around for 30 minutes at a few spots on the north end and found a consistent 4-5" of ice in most spots. There were a few areas where there was still 2-3" of unfrozen slush atop of the ice but I would imagine that freezing up soon with the weather the way it is. Continue to be careful and spud where ever you go though, I came upon some pressure ridges that had water bubble up as I approached. Heading out in a few hours for the first of the season and will report back
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Heading to Browns today! Will post how I do later
Spudded around for 30 minutes at a few spots on the north end and found a consistent 4-5" of ice in most spots. There were a few areas where there was still 2-3" of unfrozen slush atop of the ice but I would imagine that freezing up soon with the weather the way it is. Continue to be careful and spud where ever you go though, I came upon some pressure ridges that had water bubble up as I approached. Heading out in a few hours for the first of the season and will report back
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Looked like the lake was mostly locked with a few people venturing out on the southern end this afternoon.
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Had a really fun day on lonely today ...drove by toga otw home there was 1 guy drilling a hole right in front of the launch testing perhaps? 1 guy about 100 yards off fitch and then boom about 15 shanty’s off Browns
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Was on the South End today off Silver Beach. Found a variable thickness from 4" to 6". Lake did not freeze evenly causing the various thickness'. Had to really work hard to bring home a decent perch. I was just jigging today. Worked 8' to 14'. My buddy ran tip-ups and had better luck. By the way there is another "ice-locked" sail boat on this side of the lake too!
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Awesome!
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Good luck guys. Never fished lonely. Best place to access?
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I'll be out trying off fitch tomorrow morning... hoping for good ice!
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PSC thinking the same! Browns was loaded today with shantys and people few seen over in rileys cove rt across from snake hill and two shantys off of fitch rd and some guys by the launch stopped to talk to em they said 4-6 inches up there..... seen a wooden shanty down by browns gotta have a set to bring one of them out just yet little early.
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Yes people over judge the ice sometimes I had a gentlemen stop and ask me if their was enough ice to plow a track for his dirt bike with his truck lol.
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Yes people over judge the ice sometimes I had a gentlemen stop and ask me if their was enough ice to plow a track for his dirt bike with his truck lol.
Or they under estimate the ice sometimes. ::)
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(https://s18.postimg.cc/6v12kpr1x/117_C07_A0-2_E01-4832-8951-58188_AE76793.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/6v12kpr1x/)
Courtesy of Hardwaterlipn147...
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(https://s18.postimg.cc/6v12kpr1x/117_C07_A0-2_E01-4832-8951-58188_AE76793.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/6v12kpr1x/)
Courtesy of Hardwaterlipn147...
Wow! I saw the trucks out there today, didn't know one went through... was 8" of white ice by me but not sure about over there.... such brutal brutal cold day too...
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That's not the way anyone wants to end the year. On a serious note use common sense and be safe it's early check the ice and know where you are and the area your fishing
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That truck went through at Saratoga?
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I wish I could say that wasn’t his fault but it’s kind of common sense... early ice conditions, easy walking... are people really that lazy that they need to drive on the ice?
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We saw both those trucks when we got off the ice and were driving over the bridge. We were pretty surprised anyone would drive a vehicle on the lake and then park so close together. The trucks looked to be parked right next to each other.
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Thinking about heading out tomorrow morning off browns beach how’s the perch been hitting?
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I went out today had some mark up but wouldn't commit.
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Maybe the truck belongs to the guy who owns the sail boat?
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Haha lmfbo to funny good possibility!
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What? Nice job
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Maybe the truck belongs to the guy who owns the sail boat?
:roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:
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Omg hahha too funny and so true!
Maybe the truck belongs to the guy who owns the sail boat?
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Thinking about hitting fish creek tomorrow after work it will be getting dark and I’ve never fished there before anything to watch for besides bubblers and how much ice that way ?
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The area affected by bubblers is much smaller this year with the colder temps. I saw guys fishing right off the launch pier (over the old cut-off bridge pilings) on Monday and that area never froze last year.
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Watch for spring holes, stepped in on a few years back and it wasn’t fun.
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Thinking about hitting fish creek tomorrow after work it will be getting dark and I’ve never fished there before anything to watch for besides bubblers and how much ice that way ?
I know its been cold, but be careful depending on how far down the creek you go, the current down towards the bends always keeps the ice thin.
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Better his truck then mine!
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Thanks boys I don’t think I’m going THAT far maybe just out of the launch and 30 yards to the right
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Thanks boys I don’t think I’m going THAT far maybe just out of the launch and 30 yards to the right
you should be fine then. interesting spot to fish too, always a mixed bag.
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Wish access to lonely was easier id just go rip more Fatties out of there at the same time thankful it’s not keeps traffic down
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Got any plans to hit up Lonely this weekend? I was thinking about heading out.
Wish access to lonely was easier id just go rip more Fatties out of there at the same time thankful it’s not keeps traffic down
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Taking a buddy and his son out for their first hard water experiences. Thought southern end of Saratoga would be a good fit. But, i don't know what fishing "off Brown's" means. Is the parking the beach parking lot across from Panza's?
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Yes it is
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Great, thanks for the information Jazz
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Thinking of hitting browns today around dusk and other quacks going to be out?!
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I am crazy enough to do it, but i have custody tonight.
Tight lines!
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An amazing number of guys braving the cold this morning on the south end. A WORD OF WARNING. I just saw two cars at the end of Luther Road (town of Stillwater, where the White Sulfur Springs Hotel once was) with parking tickets. It used to be that Malta was the one that would get you for parking within 4' of the pavement. Now apparently the town of Stillwater (for the last few years) is doing the same thing. So either park at Brown's or a friend's but stay off the pavement.
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Went out off fitch this morning and stayed all day, cold but low winds definitely helped. Managed a couple slob gills and perch, couple bass on the tip ups.
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An amazing number of guys braving the cold this morning on the south end. A WORD OF WARNING. I just saw two cars at the end of Luther Road (town of Stillwater, where the White Sulfur Springs Hotel once was) with parking tickets. It used to be that Malta was the one that would get you for parking within 4' of the pavement. Now apparently the town of Stillwater (for the last few years) is doing the same thing. So either park at Brown's or a friend's but stay off the pavement.
I hope whoever got those tickets will fight them in court! If they were parked that far off the road why would they get a ticket if there were no "No Parking signs.. I would call the police department and ask exactly how far off the road is acceptable. Something not right!
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They weren't off the road at all. Just parked close to the snowbank that the plow left.
Note the sign just past Stewarts going north which says no parking on Stillwater roads from November through April(?).
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Thanks! Good to no Information that I'm sure a lot of people didn't no! I sure didn't! I think most of the roads around the lake all have no parking signs! Do they still park up on Fitch?
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9P is a state road, was it a trooper that issued the tickets? It seems to be a mix of sheriff's and troopers that patrol the lake.
You pass through three jurisdictions before hitting the bridge. Immediately after Browns Beach on 9P, Malta becomes Stillwater, then you have the town of Saratoga briefly and then the city of Saratoga.
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I did see the cars on Sunday, they were definitely parked pretty far into the road. I saw Saratoga County Sheriffs near the vehicles.
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9P is a state road, was it a trooper that issued the tickets? It seems to be a mix of sheriff's and troopers that patrol the lake.
You pass through three jurisdictions before hitting the bridge. Immediately after Browns Beach on 9P, Malta becomes Stillwater, then you have the town of Saratoga briefly and then the city of Saratoga.
The cars were not on 9P. They were a little way up Luther Road, just past the old spring house.
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9P is a state road, was it a trooper that issued the tickets? It seems to be a mix of sheriff's and troopers that patrol the lake.
You pass through three jurisdictions before hitting the bridge. Immediately after Browns Beach on 9P, Malta becomes Stillwater, then you have the town of Saratoga briefly and then the city of Saratoga.
And don't forget the Park Police.
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is there a fishing contest on Saratoga Lake on the 20th of this month??? ???
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I see people out and about on the webcam. Any issues accessing the ice from Browns? Looks like there’s some standing water at the shore
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is there a fishing contest on Saratoga Lake on the 20th of this month??? ???
You may be seeing information for the derby on Saratoga Lake in Wyoming. That is on the 20th.
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Any ice reports on browns, up by fitch and state launch after the melt? Looking to go out tomorrow?
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There's a nasty looking 20 yard wide wet patch that runs about 50 yards off shore to the north and west of brown's. However, there were a few guys out there this afternoon so they got over it somehow.
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Thanks buz. Hoping to take my daughter there Monday. Maybe the 36 hours of cold will cure that
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Thanks for the update. My buddy was plowing earlier said he seen people on wheelers on the north end
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nasty looking wet patch by shore on our way out on a mid lake location yesterday. We spudded and it was all solid underneath the water, waded through about 8 inches of water to get on the good ice. On the way back out the shore ice had frozen enough where the water was to support my weight.
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Yeah that afternoon thaw was something. Was solid when I got there in the AM, but left around 1:30pm and it was ankle deep water and slush. Glad to here it refroze for your way out. I am sure that it will stay locked up until at least after this weekend with the cold temps last night
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was on at Fitch Rd yesterday there is a 50 yard stretch of 6' deep water on top of the ice it is froze over enough to walk on no problem would not recommend trying to drive on
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Anyone know if you can park at the waterfront park off crescent ave and get on the lake there?
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Anyone know if you can park at the waterfront park off crescent ave and get on the lake there?
Yes you can. The city plows it during the winter. :thumbsup:
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Fished off Fitch yesterday afternoon, very pleasant fishing, but catching was poor - lots of bass, a few puny gills and a bunch of lookers.
Do not try to drive on - edge is open, mini-van got on, but had to be towed out when it broke through and got stuck on the way off - plenty of ice once you get out 15-20 ft. from shore.
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Do they allow you to drive off of Brown's if it is safe to do so?
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Do they allow you to drive off of Brown's if it is safe to do so?
no they don't, besides, just walk. Don't try to ruin it for everyone else.
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Well dick I think I was pretty clear asking if they allow you to drive off of there access wasn't planning on crashing the gate and giving them the finger on the way by
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I don’t think you can get a machine on from Browns. Tough enough to get a jet sled through the fence openings
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There was a truck with a trailer parked at Brown's this afternoon so someone took a machine out from there. I've seen a couple 4 wheelers off Browns in the past week or so.
I don't know if its "allowed" or not but guys have been doing it.
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Anyone know ice thickness on fish creek by state launch?
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Its nearly 15" as you go up into Fish Creek, but occasionally you will hit a thinner spot. Stay away from the bubblers around the docks opposite the launch ramp. When I was fishing out in the middle of Fish Creek Thursday there was a significant current. My little perch jig was getting blown out from under the sonar beam in 25 FOW in the narrows near the launch ramp. I moved north and in towards the drop on the side and had a lot better luck seeing the jig (and some fish) in 10-14 FOW.
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Slow start on fish creek today. Seems like everyone is quiet.
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DEC was out quite a bit yesterday.
Mark you calendars Sunday Feb 12th. Motor Bike races will be on the ice in front of Brown's.
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They are just doin their job make sure your all legal and it's always nice to have a chat with them. They have a lot of info to learn from about what other people are experiencing and info on other bodies of water. Anyone else feeling a little weird about Saratoga lake this year? Not catching fish like other years
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The Saratoga region ECON officers are wonderful. I will second that they are just doing their job. Always a great conversation
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It's been on and off for me. We had a pretty good start with the gills on first ice rite up to the big rain and they shut down. couldn't hardly catch one until yesterday. started in my usual spot in 7.5 fow. after a morning of all most nothing, I moved out to 10.5 fow and the bite was crazy all afternoon. I did notice that the water seemed a little less cloudy out deep. could that have made the difference? Hmmmmmm
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Those DEC guys are welcome to come visit me any time they want. If your fishing legally and not leaving any trash, you have nothing to worry about. I wish we had more of them to go around
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Saratoga has been real slow for me this year as well. Every day i've made it out, would have been the slowest day I had of the 2017 season. Im hoping that since its not brutally cold anymore, the bite will heat up. Made it out Monday and only three fish for my effort; but at least they were quality. Was fishing one of my favorite weed beds with tip ups spread out over a couple hundred yards, with depths ranging from 6-30'. Caught a small bass at 12', Northern (31") hit at 20', and the Walter (20") came at 17'. Getting out again this morning for a couple hours and will report back if I hook into anything interesting. Ice was consistent 8-9" everywhere I drilled.
(https://s18.postimg.cc/3n37di6lh/Northern.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/3n37di6lh/)
(https://s18.postimg.cc/9pau3lacl/Walter.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/9pau3lacl/)
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nice northern! walleye northern small and largemouth bass is the toga slam! haha
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Had a good early ice then shut right down to nothing until I got into this pile of slobs last weekend.
(https://s18.postimg.cc/mfaxmocj9/20180121_162542.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/mfaxmocj9/)
(https://s18.postimg.cc/m2jjgn75x/20180120_162054.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/m2jjgn75x/)
(https://s18.postimg.cc/l1jaqzv5x/20180120_170949.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/l1jaqzv5x/)
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Had a good early ice then shut right down to nothing until I got into this pile of slobs last weekend.
(https://s18.postimg.cc/mfaxmocj9/20180121_162542.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/mfaxmocj9/)
(https://s18.postimg.cc/m2jjgn75x/20180120_162054.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/m2jjgn75x/)
(https://s18.postimg.cc/l1jaqzv5x/20180120_170949.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/l1jaqzv5x/)
Those are some serious slobs! I've never really had much luck at Saratoga. I either can't read the lake (very good possibility) or I just have horrible luck lol.
Congrats on some good looking perch! They are def in there. I saw a person on facebook who seemed to have a nice 3-4 person limit of nice size eyes this morning. Seriously jealous.
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Thats a insane bag of perch. Holy cow. Nice to see someone figured it out lol
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you guys crushed it. I know from experience toga perch are not easy to come by in numbers like that.
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WOW IceNeck that's an awesome batch of perch I seem to do well on gills there but struggle to nail the perch. can I just ask how deep?
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What is up with the short walleye's this year? in three trips i've caughten 6 walleye. 5 shorts and 1 keeper. Anyone else having this problem?
Found 2 tip ups this weekend on the ice in 16 fow with bait set down 5 to 6 ft sat. I got talking with a couple guys on the ice later saturday before the rain came in and they said they were after eye's and were setting half there tip ups down 5 to 6 ft and the other half the standard 1 ft up. I've always caughten my walleye with tip ups 2 in to 12 in off the bottom. Anyone had success doing this on toga?
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What is up with the short walleye's this year? in three trips i've caughten 6 walleye. 5 shorts and 1 keeper. Anyone else having this problem?
Found 2 tip ups this weekend on the ice in 16 fow with bait set down 5 to 6 ft sat. I got talking with a couple guys on the ice later saturday before the rain came in and they said they were after eye's and were setting half there tip ups down 5 to 6 ft and the other half the standard 1 ft up. I've always caughten my walleye with tip ups 2 in to 12 in off the bottom. Anyone had success doing this on toga?
You're not the first person I've heard mention that. I thought they were yanking my chain.
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What is up with the short walleye's this year? in three trips i've caughten 6 walleye. 5 shorts and 1 keeper. Anyone else having this problem?
Found 2 tip ups this weekend on the ice in 16 fow with bait set down 5 to 6 ft sat. I got talking with a couple guys on the ice later saturday before the rain came in and they said they were after eye's and were setting half there tip ups down 5 to 6 ft and the other half the standard 1 ft up. I've always caughten my walleye with tip ups 2 in to 12 in off the bottom. Anyone had success doing this on toga?
This was the first year I was measuring walleyes at Toga so yes seems to be a lot of them at just legal size or below which is a good sign. I pick up a lot of eyes trolling stickbaits at night on the deep weedlines so lures are running 5 to 6 ft down over 15-16 feet of water so why not on the tipups set that far down. Walleyes feed up regularly especially at dusk and into the night.
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if you put your setup just off bottom alot of times you will get the minnow fouled in the weeds. I usually do about 5 wraps on the tipup spool but if its a shallow setup <8 FOW i might just put it halfway down.
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Fished today two walleyes 22" 21" and 30" pike. Fished 32' water caught them 6' off bottom
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Fished today two walleyes 22" 21" and 30" pike. Fished 32' water caught them 6' off bottom
nice! one of the better days i've heard or read about in 2018.
If you don't mind me asking, tip ups, jigging or both?
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Fished today two walleyes 22" 21" and 30" pike. Fished 32' water caught them 6' off bottom
Nicely done! I guess I need to rethink my setups. I've just always done the traditional 1 to maybe 2ft off bottom.
Have you ever experimented with beads or blades on a tip up as an extra attractant? I've been doing some reading and just curious if anyone in the area has actually tried it.
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nice! one of the better days i've heard or read about in 2018.
If you don't mind me asking, tip ups, jigging or both?
Tipups
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Nicely done! I guess I need to rethink my setups. I've just always done the traditional 1 to maybe 2ft off bottom.
Have you ever experimented with beads or blades on a tip up as an extra attractant? I've been doing some reading and just curious if anyone in the area has actually tried it.
Yes I usually run a couple setups with beads. When things are slow or I get skunked I begin mixing things up and try different approaches
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when i use tip ups i put beads and blades on all the time,it works best for me
-red beads
-# 2 hammered nickel colorado blades
-some times pipe cleaner with gulp on it
;D ;D ;D
RAT
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when i use tip ups i put beads and blades on all the time,it works best for me
-red beads
-# 2 hammered nickel colorado blades
-some times pipe cleaner with gulp on it
;D ;D ;D
RAT
Yes I usually run a couple setups with beads. When things are slow or I get skunked I begin mixing things up and try different approaches
Thanks for the tips guys. Do you run your attracter right above the minnow or up a few inches. I did 1 tip-up this past weekend with a few beads and a blade. I ran it up 6 inches and it seemed to get hit a decent amount.
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Anyone know the thickness of the ice on Saratoga. Been fishing Sacandaga a lot this year with decent success but would like to try Toga for some Eyes!
With a fourwheer... Are there any specific areas I should avoid? Where to launch?
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Ice off Fitch is solid 12+", the area just off the dirt ramp onto the ice however is treacherous - coming off last night I found a Gentleman - he was wearing a wool car coat, loafers, dress pants,... - with his Jeep nose down unable to move with his front wheels up to the axle - 4 of us with 2 pick-ups and a wheeler w/winch tired for the better part of an hour to get him out - no dice, ice was too slick - the Jeep had no tow-eye up front which would have made pulling him out easy. Left him for the tow truck.
Lesson, it's not the driving on ice that dangerous, it's the driving onto the ice that will get you - this is the 2nd one in two weeks at that spot.
Brown's - 12", below 9P bridge 7"-10", open water on west shore by the Kaydeross
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Thanks for all the great info. So best bet would be Browns beach? If Fitch... Where do you park?
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I fish off Fitch, best bet for parking is on Fitch Rd opposite the lake, stay on the west side, with tires off the travel lane - Do Not park in the Pump Station, Brown's has plenty of parking in the public lot - get there early - favorable forecast will have 'em coming out in droves
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Ice off Fitch is solid 12+", the area just off the dirt ramp onto the ice however is treacherous - coming off last night I found a Gentleman - he was wearing a wool car coat, loafers, dress pants,... - with his Jeep nose down unable to move with his front wheels up to the axle - 4 of us with 2 pick-ups and a wheeler w/winch tired for the better part of an hour to get him out - no dice, ice was too slick - the Jeep had no tow-eye up front which would have made pulling him out easy. Left him for the tow truck.
Lesson, it's not the driving on ice that dangerous, it's the driving onto the ice that will get you - this is the 2nd one in two weeks at that spot.
Brown's - 12", below 9P bridge 7"-10", open water on west shore by the Kaydeross
There was quite a few guys out this past weekend with trucks parking on the ice. With the rain and warm up I was waiting for someone to break through. At least it didn't go through completely. Alot of guys were driving down and parking on the ice lined up with the shoreline. Only a matter of time.
Edit: Last Saturday I parked at the waterfront park off crescent. Got on the ice there and walked over towards fitch road. It's a much longer walk but with no snow it wasn't bad at all. Best part is there was no chance of a ticket for being on Fitch.
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I'm going to have to look at that
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Anybody have thought on ice thickness towards the center of the lake? I'd like to try a few of my summer spots by Mannings and Snake Hiil. I want to take my ATV or snowmobile due to the distance from Fitch. Ive seen some snowmobile tracks towards the center, but there's a big difference between a machine going 50mph and one that's stopped.
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I desperately want to cross that lake from fitch and hit a spot I all ways do well at in the summer. This past week has been excellent walking conditions but I just do not trust the center of that lake. It is very deep and the last to freeze. Last season it never completely froze. My advice is if you have a machine then launch at Browns and go up the west side. Please be careful and good luck.
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I desperately want to cross that lake from fitch and hit a spot I all ways do well at in the summer. This past week has been excellent walking conditions but I just do not trust the center of that lake. It is very deep and the last to freeze. Last season it never completely froze. My advice is if you have a machine then launch at Browns and go up the west side. Please be careful and good luck.
I took the long walk twice this week no issues. It was making ice this morning.
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I will most likely go off fitch and hug the east shore where it’s shallow and then drill some test holes when I get closer to snake hill. Just too much unknown to chance a machine near Manning’s. I know there used to be an underwater Spring somewhere out off Manning’s and the the north towards kayadeross creek. I saw a couple guys out in the middle today and yesterday, but they walked, God bless them, that was a hike
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10-12" of ice by snake hill four-wheeler n sled tracks frozen frozen into ice as of wed
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Thanks for the info. Knowing 10” at Snake makes me feel better
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I have been fishing Saratoga Lake since the early 70's and they were the Hay Days. I hate to say this, but for Walleyes, I have moved to Oneida Lake. It has everything a Walleye man wants, WALLEYES. We limit out most of the time, but you have to learn the lake. This lake has a walleye hatchery on it,
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back then how was the walleye fishing on Saratoga? Better numbers? size? both?
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Saratoga is going to be a dead lake! It all started a few years back when they decided to start killing the weeds with chemicals. Take a look at the cameras on the lake and nobody is out there! No shanty's nothing! I also don't believe those perch pics that were shown a little while back. Really hard to believe that there the only one's to find them! One lake and to much pressure ! Have you seen the hundreds of boats in the marinas in the summer,all the tournaments. Something is killing the fish! >:(
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Don't forget all the illegal walleye's caught and kept in the spring too.
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I also don't believe those perch pics that were shown a little while back. Really hard to believe that there the only one's to find them!
These came out of toga last year... (https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/16807595_10155766696974428_9009350317545854649_n.jpg?oh=d01bb131129e48eb9407ed29ee3aa4ec&oe=5AE58D0C)
Fished it only 4 or 5 times but each time had anywhere from 5-10 perch all that size and that was just me with tip-ups wasn't really moving. Didn't fish it this year as I'm not in the area anymore but I'm sure they're still in there you just need to find them. Not hard to get a bucket full if you move around and are able to stay on them. Also last year a couple spots were not accessible due to the bad ice
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Saratoga is going to be a dead lake! It all started a few years back when they decided to start killing the weeds with chemicals. Take a look at the cameras on the lake and nobody is out there! No shanty's nothing! I also don't believe those perch pics that were shown a little while back. Really hard to believe that there the only one's to find them! One lake and to much pressure ! Have you seen the hundreds of boats in the marinas in the summer,all the tournaments. Something is killing the fish! >:(
DEC put an end to that. The creel test they did showed that the herbicides killed most of environment the fish needed. No more chemicals in the lake and the fishing is coming back. The reason you're seeing less fishing on the lake is for various other reasons. One is the rowing going on and the FACT that the rowing association and the "schools" are shutting down the public boat launch more and more. We can't get down the creek anymore either and the rowing association just purchased MORE land around the main body of the lake. They will be rowing in the middle of the lake as well now. Combine that with the fact that the lake is too busy for fishermen with all of the recreational boating happening thanks to Lake George issuing limited numbers of permits on top of the rowing and there's your reasons for seeing less fishing occurring. I have no idea what you're talking about as far as the ice fishing because the people I talk to day in and day out are heading to Saratoga and they show me the pics of their previous catches. The Tuesday Night Bass Challenge put on by Saratoga Tackle and Archery in the summer shows the bass fishermen are willing to fish Saratoga Lake. With an average of 34 boats last year, that's a big uptick in attendance. There are LOTS of people having great luck on Saratoga Lake this ice season. Yes ... the chemicals did affect the eco system BUT it's not the main reason for bass fisherman avoiding the lake in the summer. Oh ... and you do realize that Saratoga Boatworks closed in 2016 right? It has a new owner and there aren't as many people docking there which explains the appearance of less boats near the 9P bridge. Hopefully this gives you alittle insight as to what is REALLY going on with that lake. I'll tell you right now, if you're a fisherman, you had better start making a stand to save the lake or it will be turned into a reservoir and only rowing will be allowed. There is lots of money being dumped into this effort to end Saratoga Lake as we know it. Now, it's a political battle ground and something needs to be done to save it so we can keep enjoying the lake as anglers. Get out there and enjoy the lake. I have NO problems catching perch and crappies that I'm targeting in the winter. If you'd like to go with me sometime, I'd love to have some company out there. :)
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Do you have any reference to the DEC ending herbicide use on Saratoga? It would be great news, but I can't find any information on the web.
I have fished Saratoga for nearly 50 years. My best fishing was in the early 1980's, when weed populations were at their most virulent. I don't understand how the DEC ever allowed herbicide use in the first place. The weed cutters kept things reasonably in control, and still left enough habitat for fish, particularly young fish, to relate to. A couple of years ago they announced they were going to start removing mute swans because of their negative impact on the environment. Nothing compared to herbicides, which they were sanctioning at the time.
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I like hearing these takes, I have only fished the lake since 2012 so long after the 'hayday'
What I have noticed is most of the bass are small and skinny, lots of just under 2lb fish and a lot look like they are starving. The rare big fish i do get (4+lbs) usually seem pretty fat and healthy though. It almost seems like there is just not a lot of food for those middle class high 2s and 3s to eat to get to that big size. Im guessing the 4lbers are eating alot of gills.
The smallmouth fishing is similiar. Extremely rare to ever get one over 3lbs although most of the ones i catch do seem healthier than the largemouth.
The eyes though difficult at times to catch have a pretty impressive avg size. I wonder after the weeds went if there was just too many different predator populations to be sustained on the limited forage stunting the populations.
The pike seem to totally have disappeared. I got one last summer. Maybe 6 or 7 since 2012, two of which were good size
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The big pike are nearly gone on saratoga, and in the 90s it was well known for BIG pike. I grew up fishing there through the ice with my father and I refuse to bass fish there during the open water season. Mainly due to the traffic, and the depressing size of the fish. The lake is starting to come around, as I follow the weigh in weights there every year, but it has a long ways to go. In the late 80s and even to the late 90s the bass fishing there was comparable to that of The weights from lower Champlain (Ticonderoga). It would take 21-25lbs on average to win at Saratoga during its prime... now, most the time you can cash with 12-14lbs. Yes, there are big ones still there but the average quality is very low compared to every other lake around saratoga... but don’t even get me started on the recreational boaters there.
My club has 2 saratoga events scheduled this season. I would be there if I didn’t decide to take the year off from tournaments.
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It’s not hard people fish the lakes out. When everyone keeps what they catch fish population is going to go down. When people go to a lake weekend after weekend and limit out , that only lasts so long. When you remove more fish the the lake can replace your going to start killing the lake off . I wish NY has stricter fishing regulations. It would really help out the lakes fish populations.
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Something else to consider is that it’s 2018. In the 1980’s there was no ice shanty social media, no flashers/cameras/graphs like the ones on the market today, no side by sides, portable lightweight shelters and heaters are available everywhere today as well as navionics etc. all these things have to have some explanation as to why the fishing isn’t what it once was. People are catching and keeping more fish than ever before and the popular species arent growing to the sizes that we all desire.
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all valid points. todays electronics and equipment do lead to more successful trips. toga aint what it was back even ten years ago. our bass tournaments use to take 20 lbs to just cash a check, now low teens cut money and win. A lot of chemical and sonaring of weeds hurt a lot of lakes around the area not just toga. the mohawk in the 90s. toga and cossayuna in the early 2000's. the grass wiped out led to no cover and the fish just gorged on everything until nothing was left. toga is starting to turn around the last few years. like anything else you gotta put your homework in and time on the ice. i've had four very successful trips this year to toga, after have 3 horrendous ones to start the season.
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Well the Mohawk bass fishing went downhill drastically after the hurricane flooded it. It is still recovering but it is not what it was prior to the hurricane.
Cossayuna, I haven’t fished there much. Actually only 3 times and one of those times were for a tournament last year and just under 18lbs won it... and the one other time I fished it for fun we boated a 6lber and ended up with just under 22lbs.
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Looking to head to toga this weekend for a day trip with the fellas. Were going to have 4 wheelers and all our gear. Best place to park? Not sure if were headed to north of snake hill or mannings.... Would we be ok with the 4 wheelers in the snow? Thanks
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Do you have any reference to the DEC ending herbicide use on Saratoga? It would be great news, but I can't find any information on the web.
I have fished Saratoga for nearly 50 years. My best fishing was in the early 1980's, when weed populations were at their most virulent. I don't understand how the DEC ever allowed herbicide use in the first place. The weed cutters kept things reasonably in control, and still left enough habitat for fish, particularly young fish, to relate to. A couple of years ago they announced they were going to start removing mute swans because of their negative impact on the environment. Nothing compared to herbicides, which they were sanctioning at the time.
I'll have to go through my emails and I will post it here about the creel test findings and DEC ending the use of chemicals for weed control in the lake. If you'd like to call the Saratoga Lake Association and ask them, they'll tell you DEC is no longer signing off on the chemicals used up until this last creel test. It was destroying the eco system in the lake and thankfully, DEC did their test and confirmed what you and I, and many others knew. :) DEC was the agency responsible for allowing the chemicals to be used and signing off on "XXXX amount of gallons" of it to be released in the lake. I'm glad they at least recognized that they were wrong in allowing the use of the chemicals. It was more of a "we don't know what the long term affects will be" kind of thing but it's ended now. Thankfully. The below report is "sugar coating" the real findings by DEC. It still shows the damage done to the lake, but believe me, it's not even remotely close to the true findings of the damage done. This is why in 2016/2017 DEC ended the use of chemicals. I will of course still post up the email from DEC when I locate it. It's awful funny how the 2016 DEC Creel test is no longer available on their site while others are. There is ALOT of money being thrown around, by those that want the lake all to themselves, in an effort to block the public from accessing it.
(https://s9.postimg.cc/pvxyfdekb/Screenshot-2018-2-14_2016_CSLAP_Annual_Report_Saratoga_Lake_-_cs.png) (https://postimg.cc/image/pvxyfdekb/)
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I was able to run a 4 wheeler after the snow storm without much issue (4 wheel drive) 3 days ago about 8 inches of snow 4 of wet slush. Browns probably best launch point.
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Saratoga is going to be a dead lake! It all started a few years back when they decided to start killing the weeds with chemicals. Take a look at the cameras on the lake and nobody is out there! No shanty's nothing! I also don't believe those perch pics that were shown a little while back. Really hard to believe that there the only one's to find them! One lake and to much pressure ! Have you seen the hundreds of boats in the marinas in the summer,all the tournaments. Something is killing the fish! >:(
You can't go 100 yards off a public launch and expect to limit out. Do your home work and work the lake and for your information all them fish cam out of 3 holes. Believe it or not, doesn't make me loose sleep at night. Have been constantly catching 8 to 15 perch every time I have gone out. That day was just better then most.
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You can't go 100 yards off a public launch and expect to limit out. Do your home work and work the lake and for your information all them fish cam out of 3 holes. Believe it or not, doesn't make me loose sleep at night. Have been constantly catching 8 to 15 perch every time I have gone out. That day was just better then most.
I always wonder what somebody can possibly do with that many fish. They looked like a lot of big spawning females. I agree with Full Throttle that the limits should be lowered.
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Looking to head to toga this weekend for a day trip with the fellas. Were going to have 4 wheelers and all our gear. Best place to park? Not sure if were headed to north of snake hill or mannings.... Would we be ok with the 4 wheelers in the snow? Thanks
Snow depth, as of Tuesday afternoon, was only 3-4" on the lake with an inch or so of slush in places, so you should be fine running your wheelers. Just make sure to avoid the kaydeross outflow hasn't really frozen over all year. I would try somewhere on the South end of the lake, heard of more success down there than in my normal honey holes on the northern end of the lake.
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Plan on going out on Saratoga from Browns beach this evening... Any places I should avoid besides the inlet of the kaydeross? Think I'll be heading towards snake hill, thanks
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Anyone know if bill is open this winter at lake lonely? Planning on headed to toga in the am and i like to give him the business.
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Anyone know if bill is open this winter at lake lonely? Planning on headed to toga in the am and i like to give him the business.
No he is not open this winter
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Anyone fishing today? Looking to head up tomorrow, was curious how shorelines are holding up and if there is still snow on the ice.
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Shore at Fitch is pretty solid, drove on it - walking is very sloppy, 4"-6" snowy slush - with teens tonight probably gonna be a crust on top in the early AM making walking tough, slow bite all over the lake today
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Fished off of browns today in 8-15 fow. 20 tip ups. No flags. Plently of ice (15inches) shorline was fine
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Anyone having any luck on toga not hearing much
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Anyone been on the north end? Off the launch and fish creek or off the kayak launch on the west side? Just looking to see a rough ballpark on ice before heading to in the morning.
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Anyone having any luck on toga not hearing much Must be because everyone is fishing 100 yds. off a public launch and not doing their homework!! ::) ::) ::)
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Is the shore ice holding up? looking to get out tomorrow morning if it did. Any info would be great!
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Nobody fishing south end this morning, but I stopped by Brown's after picking up my paper to check out access. The lake has come up a foot or so (see the saratogalakecam chart) and the shoreline is a little iffy. I walked out a few yards in my street shoes and determined that it would take a little bit of navigating to get by the cracks and water. I nearly stepped on a dogdoo on the ice and did break thorough although it was only an inch deep water or so. I decided that I would wait a few days before fishing there.
Actually what I though was dogdoo was a very large snail, about 2.5 in, diameter.
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It’s not hard people fish the lakes out. When everyone keeps what they catch fish population is going to go down. When people go to a lake weekend after weekend and limit out , that only lasts so long. When you remove more fish the the lake can replace your going to start killing the lake off . I wish NY has stricter fishing regulations. It would really help out the lakes fish populations.
I think a degree in biology would be a prerequisite to making such a statement or at least for me to take it seriously.
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Can anyone give me any info on the tourney sunday?? Were to register??
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Can anyone give me any info on the tourney sunday?? Were to register??
Below is there POST from the facebook page...
1st annual Ice Fishing Tournament on Saratoga Lake! Permit in place to use the State Boat launch for parking! Come one come all bring your family or your friends to Saratoga lake and show off your skills ice fishing February 25th 2018 Sunday registration begins 5 a.m. at the boat launch ending at 7 a.m. fishing will begin promptly at 7am ending at 3pm. As of now we should have live bait provided by Saratoga Tackle... so if you forget your bait no worries also we are looking to have hot food Beverages and possibly a bonfire entry fee is as follow $20 per registrant $15 lunker pool also available! (3) categories first place and second place only... biggest pike and or pickerel category 1 Category.. 2 walleye... Category 3 perch.. based off of a 75 person possibility numbers go as followed for prizes first place $300 second place $200 if everybody enters the lunker $391 additional dollars for each category for the biggest fish must be in it to win it so you could potentially walk away with $691 if 75 people show up for first place in three different categories second place $200 but if the first-place guy didn't sign up for the lunker and you did you will walk away with $591 also based off 75 people so let's see how many people we can get to show off their skills and beautiful Saratoga Springs New York at the 1st Annual ice fishing tournament on Saratoga Lake Sunday February 25th 2018 fishing from 7 a.m. till 3 p.m. all fish weighted in must be (alive) in order to be eligible for any prizes this will be a catch-and-release tournament as well.. all fish will be released at the boat launch via weight person. Please remember to play by the rules we encourage Fair sportsmanship... please abide by New York State fishing regulations so we may continue this fun tournament in the future. Friday questions please contact Timothy Charles Putman 518~937~1330
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Thanks man....
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I think a degree in biology would be a prerequisite to making such a statement or at least for me to take it seriously.
Don't need a degree to Know what happened to cando
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Apparently You do because over fishing did not hurt canadarago, the lake changed because of alewife and zebra muscles, still tons of perch in there they are just timy
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It’s not hard people fish the lakes out. When everyone keeps what they catch fish population is going to go down. When people go to a lake weekend after weekend and limit out , that only lasts so long. When you remove more fish the the lake can replace your going to start killing the lake off . I wish NY has stricter fishing regulations. It would really help out the lakes fish populations.
Could this be a problem?
On Feb. 11, ECO Jason DeAngelis observed three men with a large number of undersized pickerel splayed out on the ice on Mariaville Lake in the town of Duanesburg. As ECO DeAngelis headed out onto the lake to check the men's fishing licenses, the men began pushing the fish back down into the ice fishing holes. ECO DeAngelis quickly found that the men were in possession of 69 fish over the daily catch limit, and 31 fish shorter than the legal length. DeAngelis charged the three men with multiple violations and released the fish that were still alive back into the lake.
(https://s13.postimg.cc/reog32qkj/ecoa02211806_1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/reog32qkj/)
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Sure on a small lake like mariaville and keeping 10x the limit almost, but on any size able lake keeping fish in the limits is fine. That’s why the dec sets limits. Biologists are in charge of limits and they are not going to set them to kill off a lake.
Remember the vast majority of people who fish, even ice fishermen, rarely keep there limit. Lakes change more from invasive species and environmental issues.
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It’s a huge issue. A guy last year got caught with like 300 gills On cossayuna .You cant say that fishing like that doesn’t effect a lake when they are probably doing it every week. That’s just the one time they got caught. Small lakes and only produce so much fish so fast. If you take out more then it’s producing it’s going to down hill
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Again outside of limits, the original post was changing limits and that it’s easy to fish out a lake. Fishing out a large lake by fishermen is basically impossible, a small lake sure a dent can easily be put in a population, that just means there will be more food for the small ones to grow. From the way u guys are talking all our lakes should have been fishless years ago.
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It is easy to fish out smaller lakes. Who wants to fish a lake full of dinks, especially smaller lakes that are stocked that don’t produce enough fish naturally.
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Those guys must have had alot of bait to catch 60 pickerel.Probably good to get rid of them anyhow
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You get a bunch of dunks when a lake is overpopulated not underpopulated.
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They should have seize their equipment, vehicle(s) and detain them in the local jail until they pay a ($100 per fish) fine. Return their vehicle(s) afterwards then auction that gear off. Lesson learned.
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Those guys must have had alot of bait to catch 60 pickerel.Probably good to get rid of them anyhow
A lot of bait and a lot of hooks, pickerel tend to devour the bait, hook and all...
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Anyone have any info about ice conditions for browns beach or fitch rd
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There were some people out yesterday off Brown's, but the shore looks very sketchy.
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Any one hear the results for the tournament today. ?
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1st place walleye 19 1/4" 2.5lbs. No Pike weighed in. Two guys took a swim and got out with some help out from the boat launch early in the morning. The end is here for Saratoga.
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Any reports on ice condiditions on the southend
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No one fishing south end yesterday. Access at Brown's looks shot. At Fitch road there were a number of guys out, access looks OK still.
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Any word on how much ice is left on the lake... Plan on heading to the lake tomorrow afternoon. Thanks!
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Went swimming this morning at Fitch - broke the board that was bridging the gap from shore to ice - soaked to my B__hole - my fishing partner, who's 40#'s lighter than me, was already out on the lake so after going home for dry clothes, I went back with a bigger plank to get him off - left the plank, but I won't be using it.
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Anyone know how fish creek is looking? Hoping to get some open water fishing in this weekend.
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Anyone know how fish creek is looking? Hoping to get some open water fishing in this weekend.
Few years back I remember walleye fishing in the Lund just before the season closed when it was 80 degrees and there were mosquitoes out. It was like a boat parking lot in front of the Kaydersosseras that year :o
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Fish creek was mostly wide open as of Tuesday but everything else I saw on that end still had ice cover the launch still had ice as well kayak canoe or plastic John boat tho would be nice
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Better get there before the season closes in 5 days....
It would be a shame to actually leave them alone for once..
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Better get there before the season closes in 5 days....
It would be a shame to actually leave them alone for once..
they have to try to get them now so next year they can complain about how bad the fishing is 😳🙄
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Last year the walleye numbers at Toga were strong with lots of smaller fish so it's looking a lot more promising that it was a few years ago. That's despite guys pounding them in the creek before the season. I'm usually the last boat on the water night fishing in December right before it freezes and I was shining a surprising amount of eyes in shallow which was more than I've seen in a few years.
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One guy out off Fitch yesterday. Not sure how he got out, perhaps ice around shore is thick enough for daredevils.
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Any ice reports? I haven't put everything away just yet!! Hoping for one more go-around!
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There's still lots of ice but not around the edges. I haven't checked off Fitch since Monday it might be possible to get on there but be careful. The new snow will make gauging the ice thickness difficult and hazardous. Fish creek is largely open. South end is a no go without a boat to get to the ice.
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Thanks Buz!
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If any one goes up there around Fitch can you please post a comment? would love to make one more fishing trip. These cold temps have me itching.
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saw guys off fitch today
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Saw 1 guy off of Fitch Road Sunday afternoon at 3 PM. Envied him. Looks like a late iceout this year.
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With the upcoming cold spell this week, Figured id bump this back up to the top for the season. I Would absolutely love to be able to sneak onto Lonely next Monday if everything breaks right with some favorable ice conditions. I know its an outside chance but one can hope!
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With the upcoming cold spell this week, Figured id bump this back up to the top for the season. I Would absolutely love to be able to sneak onto Lonely next Monday if everything breaks right with some favorable ice conditions. I know its an outside chance but one can hope!
I love that place got my pb crappie last year but the sewage run is a bit of a turn off
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Good to be back on the shanty... hopefully on toga soon
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a couple calm days would help. really looking forward to it
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Fished Toga Saturday and Sunday night with the boat for eyes and the water temp was 38 so it won't take much to make some ice. The lake is the highest I can remember for this time of year. Last December you could barely float the boat out of the ramp with the motor down and this year it's way up.
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Some skim ice around the edges this morning won’t be long
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I'm planning on taking a trip up there the last weekend in December/New Years. What are the chances Toga has fishable ice by then?
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I'm planning on taking a trip up there the last weekend in December/New Years. What are the chances Toga has fishable ice by then?
I dunno. Watch the weather. That’s your answer. Temps go back up after this few day cold spell. Back into the 40’s next week.
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I dunno. Watch the weather. That’s your answer. Temps go back up after this few day cold spell. Back into the 40’s next week.
I like the odds this year for that timeframe but like you say you never know
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I dunno. Watch the weather. That’s your answer. Temps go back up after this few day cold spell. Back into the 40’s next week.
I'd say based on the last 10 years its about a one in three chance to be fishing before New Year's.
South end was skimmed over this morning, a lot of geese standing around on the ice around Brown's.
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Got onto lonely today. About 3" of crystal clear ice everywhere i checked. Didn't have the success i would have liked, skunked unfortunately, but it still felt awesome to get on so early in the year. Had a slew of tip ups out and was bouncing around jigging for some crappies. Lets hope that the upcoming forecast isn't too hard on it.
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I dunno. Watch the weather. That’s your answer. Temps go back up after this few day cold spell. Back into the 40’s next week.
This is not how you make friends here. :)
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This is not how you make friends here. :)
You think I am in this to make friends?? 🤣🤣
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This is not how you make friends here. :)
(https://i.postimg.cc/MMr7Rm0Q/you-dont-win-friends-with-salad-having-the-last-bbq-28293514.png) (https://postimg.cc/MMr7Rm0Q)
I appreciate the feedback ;)
I ordered an ice fishing pole for a baitcaster reel, and they shipped me 5 of them. If anyone is in need of one, I'd be willing to share in exchange for some helpful info throughout the season :) 30 inch medium action.
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Lake sucks anyway let’s be honest
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What sucks about toga? Can be challenging but with good sized perch and quite a few walleye. Plus the bass and pickeral that some people enjoy fishing just for fun I wouldn't say sucks.
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great let him think it sucks. He won't be in my way when I need a parking spot
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Where's a good place on Saratoga lake for access you can privately pm me so the secret isn't out new to the general area looking to get on a good walleye bite
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No secret parking, there is a public boat launch by stewarts
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and parking off 9P on the south end across from Panza's Restaurant
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What sucks about toga? Can be challenging but with good sized perch and quite a few walleye. Plus the bass and pickeral that some people enjoy fishing just for fun I wouldn't say sucks.
Adam,
I might be wrong but I think he is just being sarcastic. That thing I do here a lot lol
Lots of nice walleye in that lake. I have became a believer recently as you saw on FB.
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No secret parking, there is a public boat launch by stewarts
Do you have to buy one of those $8 tickets when you park at the state launch.. I asked one of the cops in the summer and he said any time you park there you have to purchase a ticket.
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Do you have to buy one of those $8 tickets when you park at the state launch.. I asked one of the cops in the summer and he said any time you park there you have to purchase a ticket.
Or if you have one use the Empire state park pass. Leave it in your windshield
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I do have one,but their might be people that don't know you have to purchase one of these tickets in the winter! I think you have to be 62 to get a free pass for Saratoga lake and only good Monday through Friday and not on Holidays.
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understood, just providing additional options
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the ticket machine is either wrapped up for the winter or taken down no need to worry about paying to park
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Good to know Thanks!
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Togas not bad and it’s close only half hour for me but if I’m going perching I’ll wait for the king and haven’t tried for the eyes too busy laker fishing 🤦♂️ Just like every other body of water if you put your time in eventually you will find them
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Togas not bad and it’s close only half hour for me but if I’m going perching I’ll wait for the king and haven’t tried for the eyes too busy laker fishing 🤦♂️ Just like every other body of water if you put your time in eventually you will find them
Can wait for the king for perch but is too busy laker fishing to fish for eyes?
Is this a riddle?
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And the award goes to the brave soul who put up a shelter (seen Tuesday) behind the (closed) Lake Local tavern by the bridge. Much of the lake has opened up, but the south end has some ice and I saw a couple kids playing hockey around the edge a little north of Brown's yesterday.
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Should make for some nice man made cover for the panfish!
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Drove by yesterday otw lake lonely and looked sketchy at best
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Couple groups out on Lonely this morning, a third truck left as I went up 9P
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Anyone got a report for thickness on lonely
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Hoping the ice will be thick enough this weekend on toga with this upcoming week of cold . I will report back on Saturday or Sunday with thickness report .gonna go to browns beach
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I saw guys on the live web cam fishing Monday
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I'd be very interested if you found safe ice... was directly across the lake from Brown's on Sunday and it was wide open with white caps... the bay might have stayed safe..... but I'd spud and spud often even after this cold snap.
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If anyone checks the ice before Saturday please report back the thickness is so. I know just off of Browns was forming up nicely but I haven’t been past Fitch rd area in a couple weeks
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We’re guys off browns yesterday
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We’re guys off browns yesterday
Nice wonder if they caught.
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There’s about 5 inches near browns on the south side. Didn’t see anyone having much action including myself.
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There’s about 5 inches near browns on the south side. Didn’t see anyone having much action including myself.
Is it locked up going towards snake hill or still open water
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Entire lake is mostly locked up with a few open water pockets that will probably lock up tonight. If you go out be careful on the new ice. One hit with the spud and it was through this morning on the new ice.
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Bumping toga back to front page. Knock yourselves out on LG dudes i'll be enjoying the lake this weekend before all this snow dumps
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Drove around at 4pm browns beach had 20 ish, couple of people 500 yards from bridge at north end
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Anyone been out since the snow dump? I was thinking about going tonight, gonna get some exercise in getting out!
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Anyone else finding it a tough bite out there this year.. I know its later in the season but been out 3 times and come home with one perch. Usually do very well with the eyes and a handful of nice perch spots just seem dry this year. Cant wait to get the wheeler on the lake so I can get out to the real good spots. But whats everyone else doing
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I went there Saturday and it was dead for me too...
So I hit Ballston on the way back and caught a nice large mouth and a keeper perch, had another flag wiff. It was slow but at least more action
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Anyone else finding it a tough bite out there this year.. I know its later in the season but been out 3 times and come home with one perch. Usually do very well with the eyes and a handful of nice perch spots just seem dry this year. Cant wait to get the wheeler on the lake so I can get out to the real good spots. But whats everyone else doing
Where do you usually park when you bring your ATV out?
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Anyone else finding it a tough bite out there this year.. I know its later in the season but been out 3 times and come home with one perch. Usually do very well with the eyes and a handful of nice perch spots just seem dry this year. Cant wait to get the wheeler on the lake so I can get out to the real good spots. But whats everyone else doing
When you say “real good spots” does that mean you do well in deeper water during the winter months? I’ve honestly never caught a fish in more than 20 FOW in toga anytime of year.
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Made it out friday evening, 3:30-9:30 before the storm hit to no success. Barely marked anything and hopped around with the shanty a few different places. The ice however was some of the best ice i've ever seen. There wasnt one bubble anywhere you looked, perfectly clear. Thickness was 5.25". Had a friend go out Sat evening and today as well, but he was only able to manage a few dink perch.
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Any wheelers/sleds on the lake yet?
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Any wheelers/sleds on the lake yet?
12in on fish creek..was.out with my quad today. 9" black 3" frozen slush.
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Saw a FB post about a yellow truck out on the lake today and someone said it went through as well as another vehicle yesterday. Of course not sure if it's true. Anyone hear of such things?
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Heard the same. There was a picture of an F150 falling through and reports that the other truck was on the bottom. I personally wouldn't be driving out there.
EDIT: From what I have heard the yellow F150 went off browns around 130 am. Partially fell trough. They went back to get another truck to pull it out. That is the truck that sank completely. Bad day for them.
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That's insane. How are they gonna get that truck out?
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Looking to come up this weekend.....My son is at Siena College and i want something fairly close to that.
Is there other access other than the state launch? Never fished the lake so any help would be appreciated!
SeanP
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Looking to come up this weekend.....My son is at Siena College and i want something fairly close to that.
Is there other access other than the state launch? Never fished the lake so any help would be appreciated!
SeanP
[/quote
Going south along the lake, past the state launch, on your left, is Fitch Rd. Park there, off the pavement. You'll get a ticket if you park on the road or in the power substation. There are some perch beds straight out and to the left. Little bit of a walk.
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Heard the same. There was a picture of an F150 falling through and reports that the other truck was on the bottom. I personally wouldn't be driving out there.
EDIT: From what I have heard the yellow F150 went off browns around 130 am. Partially fell trough. They went back to get another truck to pull it out. That is the truck that sank completely. Bad day for them.
Sounds like a whole lot of missing common sense going on there.
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Sounds like a whole lot of missing common sense going on there.
If only common sense was common...
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A kid had his truck break thru last night so he went and borrowed his dads 2018 ram3500 with vplow to pull it out. They are both in 9' of water now...
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Thanks for the info all!
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Anyone grab pics or video jeeesh don’t talk about it be about it feel bad for the kid tho that’s a tough one to swallow but hey at least he’s alive
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Icepick, you said both are in 9' of water? .. I was out there Sunday when they got the yellow truck unstuck. The front of the truck broke thru crossing pressure crack didn't sink to bottom. Do you know where the 2nd vehicle went thru?
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Icepick, you said both are in 9' of water? .. I was out there Sunday when they got the yellow truck unstuck. The front of the truck broke thru crossing pressure crack didn't sink to bottom. Do you know where the 2nd vehicle went thru?
From what I understand the second truck broke completely thru and sank while trying to recover the first. I assume same area. If you break through with one truck why go get a bigger???? lol
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(https://i.postimg.cc/23TY0NzP/10842.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/23TY0NzP)
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(https://i.postimg.cc/23TY0NzP/10842.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/23TY0NzP)
Pic came out poor but that yellow thing in backround was truck
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(https://i.postimg.cc/23TY0NzP/10842.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/23TY0NzP)
Where is that off of browns?
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Last I heard the Dodge 3500 with plow was still sitting on the bottom of the lake in 8-9' water. The guys were just barely able to jump out of truck as it broke thru. Wouldn't want to be dealing with that recovery bill or fines from DEC
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Insurance isn’t going to cover that vehicle loss either....
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That’s great. What are people thinking. I was out on the gsl last year. About 2 miles out worried about being on the ice with my atv. About 7-9 inches. Looked over to my right and seen a diesel truck another mile out. Lol
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Where is that off of browns?
The yellow truck was basically halfway between browns and Stoney. Rough guess 500 yards out from south shore. There's a pressure crack there. Does anyone know if they are trying to retrieve the other vehicle? And if so is there anything marking where?
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Yes Brown's. Yes I heard they are trying to recover, unsure if the area is marked
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Insurance isn’t going to cover that vehicle loss either....
Sure it does if you have comprehensive on it. They won't pay for recovery but the total loss from water damage is covered.
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Sure it does if you have comprehensive on it. They won't pay for recovery but the total loss from water damage is covered.
Here comes the vehicle in the water insurance quotes.
Wasn't that a Lake George thread a few years back that got going good when a few went in the water after parking on the ice? Insurance covered them and no DEC fines as long as they got them out or something like that.
Buddy lost a 24' go fast on Oneida one summer not too long ago and never found it. DEC required him to hire a recovery person to look for it but once he complied insurance paid him and not one fine for leaving a boat sunk. Went down so fast he didn't have time to get his wallet out of the glovebox. Sheriffs pulled him and another guy out of the drink but wouldn't hook onto the bow eye sticking out of the water. Went down in the channel at sundown and was nowhere to be found next morning.
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Here comes the vehicle in the water insurance quotes.
There is so much MIS-information about insurance coverage on fishing and hunting forums it drives me nuts sometimes and I can't help but to correct people. Insurance is my game and what I've done everyday for the last 25 years besides hunting and fishing. Vehicles/snowmobiles/atvs with comprehensive coverage are covered for water damage whether sunken or lost in a flood. Being a dummy and breaking through the ice with it has absolutely nothing to do with it being a covered loss the same as burning your house down while grilling on your porch or dropping a tree on your house.
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There is so much MIS-information about insurance coverage on fishing and hunting forums it drives me nuts sometimes and I can't help but to correct people. Insurance is my game and what I've done everyday for the last 25 years besides hunting and fishing. Vehicles/snowmobiles/atvs with comprehensive coverage are covered for water damage whether sunken or lost in a flood. Being a dummy and breaking through the ice with it has absolutely nothing to do with it being a covered loss the same as burning your house down while grilling on your porch or dropping a tree on your house.
Interesting. Thanks for the clarification.
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Slip Bob thanks that is great info, insurance can be complicated for sure, you have just crowned yourself the expert, your in trouble now if we have any questions. I wish I can get insurance on my fishing buddies borrowing fishing stuff from my garage and not returning it !!!!
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There is so much MIS-information about insurance coverage on fishing and hunting forums it drives me nuts sometimes and I can't help but to correct people. Insurance is my game and what I've done everyday for the last 25 years besides hunting and fishing. Vehicles/snowmobiles/atvs with comprehensive coverage are covered for water damage whether sunken or lost in a flood. Being a dummy and breaking through the ice with it has absolutely nothing to do with it being a covered loss the same as burning your house down while grilling on your porch or dropping a tree on your house.
You mean, there isn't a "bieng a dummy" rider?
Thanks for the clarification, although i still don't have any interest in breaking through the ice with my vehicle anytime soon
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Anyone taking machines across the lake around snake hill or other deeper water areas?
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Thanks for the info slip bob. That’s exactly why I drive my $3000 atv on the ice and not my $70,000 truck lol. While on the insurance topic what about backing a boat in and the truck goes in with it? Would that be covered or is that the same as falling through the ice ?
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Thanks for the info slip bob. That’s exactly why I drive my $3000 atv on the ice and not my $70,000 truck lol. While on the insurance topic what about backing a boat in and the truck goes in with it? Would that be covered or is that the same as falling through the ice ?
That's also why I don't drive my truck on the ice any longer. My 2000 Polaris Sporstman is an easier pill to swallow than my Sierra if it went down :) If you sunk your truck while backing a boat in and you had comprehensive on the truck it would be covered and a submerged vehicle will be a total loss. We just had one in September where my customer's pickup ended up in the Hudson up to the hood and he luckily had comp. so it was covered for the value of the truck less his deductible and we also include the tow/recovery charges in with the physical damage payout since it was just a winch out and flat bed trip to the tow yard.
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Interesting. Thanks for the clarification.
You're welcome. You have probably driven past my office many times and not even known it.
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Slip Bob thanks that is great info, insurance can be complicated for sure, you have just crowned yourself the expert, your in trouble now if we have any questions. I wish I can get insurance on my fishing buddies borrowing fishing stuff from my garage and not returning it !!!!
Insurance can seem complicated but it's nice to work with people who also hunt and fish and can relate. Hopefully your buddies are at least using your stuff and taking care of it.
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Coming to Saratoga tomorrow, any idea how thick the ice is?
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Almost thick enough for an F150, but definitely not a Ram 3500...
Coming to Saratoga tomorrow, any idea how thick the ice is?
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You're welcome. You have probably driven past my office many times and not even known it.
Where is your office?
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Nice
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Almost thick enough for an F150, but definitely not a Ram 3500...
Bahaha! Just laughed out loud after reading that...
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Isn't Rule #1 for ice fishing; If you go in with a small truck, go get a bigger one. Glad everyone is OK...h2l
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Heading up in the morning.....how much snow is on the lake?
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Last question then hopefully my next post will be pictures! LOL
The only special regs on Saratoga are 15 sunfish? Walleye & Perch are standard state regs?
SeanP
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Heading up in the morning.....how much snow is on the lake?
Dragging a sled isn't horrible but not fun. There are some snow drifts that are no deeper than lower shin in those drifts. Most snow is couple inches if that in most spots. Fishing was pretty good today. One of the better days for me on toga.
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Thanks for the intell!! I will report my successes of lack of!
Sean P
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Article in the Gazette today about the truck that sank on Sunday.
https://dailygazette.com/article/2019/02/01/dec-monitoring-truck-in-saratoga-lake
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Caught three walleyes on Sunday , Monday night bite terrible . 6 inches of ice!
(https://i.postimg.cc/tsM5bDmK/244-A88-AC-E35-E-42-AF-93-F0-F5-FCC972-E738.png) (https://postimg.cc/tsM5bDmK)
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Nice parentlake. That’s what it’s all about right there
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Drilled a consistent 10-11 inches of ice today. Watched a skidsteer try to drive out and plow off a spot to skate but the back end sunk in, luckily only 2-3 ft deep in that spot and the tow truck was able to chain it out.
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Drilled a consistent 10-11 inches of ice today. Watched a skidsteer try to drive out and plow off a spot to skate but the back end sunk in, luckily only 2-3 ft deep in that spot and the tow truck was able to chain it out.
Seems like people don’t want to learn this season.
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Talked to a DEC Officer today and he stated that " all motorized vehicles are not allowed on the lake at this time ". If some Genius decides "whatever ", it's his butt.........
Kim :icefish:
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How’s fish creek looking want to take my son out there but haven’t checked on it this year
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Had a great day with my son! He need a break from the dorms and I need a reason for a road trip!! First time on the lake but thanks to all that gave me some intel I appreciate it!!!
(https://i.postimg.cc/hQGLYKGb/Rob-Saratoga.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hQGLYKGb)
(https://i.postimg.cc/VSBXLJrW/Sean-Saratoga.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/VSBXLJrW)
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Fished off Fitch. Good morning bite w usual suspects. Snow is just about gone off ice. Puddles and some slush but easy dragging.
Reminder:
If parking on Fitch rd park in between the power poles off the road facing w traffic. One truck decided to park right in front of 3 NO PARKING signs facing on coming traffic. If going to walk halfway across lake I'm sure extra 50' to park legally isn't the make or break.
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Good advice-glad you got on some fish.
I’m heading there in the morning. Going to try and target some perch. Any tips?
I was thinking either state launch or that park near the mouth of the lake and sticking near Weed beds possibly up fish creek even.
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Found a picture of the Ram 3500 being retrieved from the lake online this morning. I think the picture itself is a few days old now.
(https://i.postimg.cc/v1RGP2qw/2-F452-F2-F-839-C-4-FAF-8-EFA-CA758214-D40-B.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/v1RGP2qw)
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Who are the people that do that type of work? Any idea of the cost?
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Reads like a false alarm, but to me was a good reminder to be careful and spud spud spud these next couple days
https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Rescue-teams-search-Saratoga-Lake-13594359.php
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Heading out there tomorrow after work can I park on fitch rd and also if that would be a good walleye spot
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Heading out there tomorrow after work can I park on fitch rd and also if that would be a good walleye spot
You can park on fitch. Parking area is not even 1/4 mile on left once you pull on fitch. You will see small pull off marks on side rd. Dont park in front of no parking signs. Try to get vehichle off Rd as much as possible but I do try to leave one tire on the Rd just so don't get stuck. If want walleyes you will have to walk out further to deeper water towards middle or edge of drop offs.
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Here's a thought Make it illegal to bring car's and truck's on any frozen lake. Get caught get heavy fine or jail time.
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Here's a thought Make it illegal to bring car's and truck's on any frozen lake. Get caught get heavy fine or jail time.
That wouldn't make any sense. Some lakes get plenty frozen for cars and trucks. Heck some lakes become small villages in winter. Should be same as some other rules. Do it at your own risk. Leave it at that. But to ban vehichles would be Overkill for sure.
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Here's a thought Make it illegal to bring car's and truck's on any frozen lake. Get caught get heavy fine or jail time.
Jail time!!??? really?? I say we ban all bans!!!
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Jail time!!??? really?? I say we ban all bans!!!
Can you imagine that conversation in the jail cell?
What you in here for? Murder
What are you in for? Drug trafficing
What about you? What are you in for? I drove a truck on the ice. Lol lol.
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New to fishing Saratoga, wondering if anyone had areas to access with good ice. Weather hasn’t been cooperating recently.... Thanks!
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New to fishing Saratoga, wondering if anyone had areas to access with good ice. Weather hasn’t been cooperating recently.... Thanks!
I was out on 'Toga yesterday until the wind got to be too much. Measured 2-2.5ft of ice, depending on where we were. We park on Fitch Rd., north end of the lake, a little south of Stewarts. Make sure you observe the no parking signs and keep your tires OFF the pavement. Otherwise you will get a ticket. Had one hit & run flag, one bite off. The guys about 50 yards away caught some perch and walleyes. The edges were solid but just a little rough from melt & refreeze, but perfectly safe. Watch for traffic when crossing from Fitch to the lake. Traffic can be busy at times.
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I was out on 'Toga yesterday until the wind got to be too much. Measured 2-2.5ft of ice, depending on where we were. We park on Fitch Rd., north end of the lake, a little south of Stewarts. Make sure you observe the no parking signs and keep your tires OFF the pavement. Otherwise you will get a ticket. Had one hit & run flag, one bite off. The guys about 50 yards away caught some perch and walleyes. The edges were solid but just a little rough from melt & refreeze, but perfectly safe. Watch for traffic when crossing from Fitch to the lake. Traffic can be busy at times.
I know it was a big issue a couple weeks ago but with 24-30 inches of ice as you just posted why would you have to worry about parking on Fitch rd and not just drive out on the lake itself?
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As much ice as you might think that is out there, Saratoga is NOT a safe lake during any ice conditions. That lake has so many springs In it, that would would never know it until your truck front end drops down. It’s a small lake. Walking doesn’t hurt.
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South Western side of the lake and was only drillin 6"-10" on Sunday afternoon.... shoreline was sketchy but we made it on with some help of the good ole spud. snow cover will make it hard to tell where thick ice goes to not so thick ice...be careful...
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Three reasons: 1) As I said, it was rough at the edges. 2) I didn't know how thick the ice was until I got out to my spot and drilled some holes. 3) It was mostly glare ice. Poor traction to get back off the ice. I've seen many a car get stuck there. Towing is expensive.
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I was out on 'Toga yesterday until the wind got to be too much. Measured 2-2.5ft of ice, depending on where we were. We park on Fitch Rd., north end of the lake, a little south of Stewarts. Make sure you observe the no parking signs and keep your tires OFF the pavement. Otherwise you will get a ticket. Had one hit & run flag, one bite off. The guys about 50 yards away caught some perch and walleyes. The edges were solid but just a little rough from melt & refreeze, but perfectly safe. Watch for traffic when crossing from Fitch to the lake. Traffic can be busy at times.
You measured 24-30" ice of fitch??? We were there twice last week and was about 10"-12". Not sure how it made 18" ice in a week since it was well above freezing last week. Odd
(https://i.postimg.cc/ykPPhHpt/20190201-103414.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ykPPhHpt)
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As much ice as you might think that is out there, Saratoga is NOT a safe lake during any ice conditions. That lake has so many springs In it, that would would never know it until your truck front end drops down. It’s a small lake. Walking doesn’t hurt.
Agreed... even after fishing this lake my entire life and knowing where many of the spring holes are I wouldn't drive out there.
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Agreed... even after fishing this lake my entire life and knowing where many of the spring holes are I wouldn't drive out there.
Yep.
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You measured 24-30" ice of fitch??? We were there twice last week and was about 10"-12". Not sure how it made 18" ice in a week since it was well above freezing last week. Odd
(https://i.postimg.cc/ykPPhHpt/20190201-103414.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ykPPhHpt)
We were about 3/4 of the way to Snake Hill. It was an exact measurement. I don't know what to tell you.
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The only way you measured that much ice on Saratoga is if you were drilling on the piled up ice ridge that the wind broke up and then froze again before the lake locked up solid, and you happened to be cutting through chunks of ice layered on top of each other...
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The only way you measured that much ice on Saratoga is if you were drilling on the piled up ice ridge that the wind broke up and then froze again before the lake locked up solid, and you happened to be cutting through chunks of ice layered on top of each other...
NOPE! Flat ice.
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Anyone know where I could park and access the lake by ATV or Snowmobile?
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Restaurant on south end used o let you park and access for a fee.Well worth it for no hassles,dont know if they still do it or not
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Restaurant on south end used o let you park and access for a fee.Well worth it for no hassles,dont know if they still do it or not
That's Nostalgia, which most locals still call DiDonna's. Right at the bottom of the hill as you come down Plains Road.
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Thank you! I just called the restaurant and they told me if I park out of the way, no charge. Thanks for your help!!
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Anyone parking on the shoreline across from fitch rd? Curious of the snow depth or if the ice at the shore is solid enough for trucks to park instead of on Fitch itself.
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You might get on, but I doubt you'll get off - fished yesterday afternoon and edges are punky - once out 15-20 yds, solid ice - good bite on gills
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Anyone know how the shorelines are? I’m looking to take the Atv out on the south end
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Can you park on Fitch rd to access the lake? Bunch of no parking signs
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Can you park on Fitch rd to access the lake? Bunch of no parking signs
Yes. Park between telephone poles off the Rd on the left side. Drive past the no parking signs. You can see where people have pulled off.
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Thank you! I just called the restaurant and they told me if I park out of the way, no charge. Thanks for your help!!
They have a sign up saying $7 for Ice Fishing parking at Nostalgia. Brown's Beach has always been free.
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Heading to Saratoga Lake for an overnight fishing trip tomorrow. Anyone else do this? Any advice?
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Fished toga today.. Very finicky bite. Fish would mark and cover jig but just wouldn't hit it a lot times. . Playing keep away seemed to help. A lot dink blue Gil's but nice ones too. Bass were very active/aggressive. Caught some crappies. One being my personal best on toga (14"). Few pickeral as always. Beautiful day to be out. Fished from 7-4pm. Plenty of ice and sun.
(https://i.postimg.cc/bScVx6Cg/20190303-101524.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/bScVx6Cg)
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nice fish!
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niiiiiice.. fitch rd?
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Real nice crappie!!
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Absolute struggle today on toga. Bite is almost non existent. Tried fishing off path of area we normally do to see what we find. Nothing. Moved back to area we normally fish..exact spots actually. Struggling. Wind picking up too. Giving it another 30 then that's a wrap. Definitely slowest day so far this season. Few bass, a pickeral and 2 bluegill. Not marking much. What we do mark has no interest in moving much
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Absolute struggle today on toga. Bite is almost non existent. Tried fishing off path of area we normally do to see what we find. Nothing. Moved back to area we normally fish..exact spots actually. Struggling. Wind picking up too. Giving it another 30 then that's a wrap. Definitely slowest day so far this season. Few bass, a pickeral and 2 bluegill. Not marking much. What we do mark has no interest in moving much
try fishing up high, right under the ice. Sometimes thats the ticket on the weedy flats, especially as it warms up and the ice deteriorates. Me n Slipbob were pulling blanks one march day about 10 years back till one of us caught a crappie with our jig just under the ice, and then it was game on.
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try fishing up high, right under the ice. Sometimes thats the ticket on the weedy flats, especially as it warms up and the ice deteriorates. Me n Slipbob were pulling blanks one march day about 10 years back till one of us caught a crappie with our jig just under the ice, and then it was game on.
Funny you say that because that's what I did today unintentionally. Was on my phone so put rod up on cross bar of shanty..which brought my jig just under ice by 1' or so..next thing know 2 big marks on it.. quick grab rod but couldn't get them to take it. Figured it prob was crappie. Even bass were tight lipped today. Which is kinda crazy on toga
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Let me second the poor reports. I drilled a ton of holes from 6' to 21' today, and not much to show for it. A couple nice bluegills and a snot rocket out of the shallower water, but only one or two other lookers. Once over 11' all I could find was teeny tiny perch- finger size. Weather was nice until about 9:30, then the wind came up. Took my flip over out, it was a long walk out and back but I guess it was worth it once the wind came up. On the other hand, the only decent fish I caught were when I was fishing out in the open, so if I hadn't had my shelter I would have packed it in when the wind came up saved myself some time and aggravation.
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Once my shanty started to shake like crazy from the wind it just added to the frustration. Then my buddy mentioned going to eat chicken wings from rusty nail.. I said we outta here.
It's amazing how it can turn right off with fishing some days. Back to goose hunting for bit then will give it another shot. Almost glad to hear the struggles were real today but bummed overall about it.
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where is the Rusty Nail? I'm all ways looking for some chow after fishing. Are they reasonable with a good menu?
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where is the Rusty Nail? I'm all ways looking for some chow after fishing. Are they reasonable with a good menu?
Bar food mainly not fine dining. Known for wings really. If your birthday you get however many wings your age is for free. Do pay tax still so not free really. It's on rt9 in Clifton Park
Bentley's in Malta, the mill in round lake, rusty nail in Clifton Park all same owner I believe. Basic bar foods really. Good eats though.
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Bar food mainly not fine dining. Known for wings really. If your birthday you get however many wings your age is for free. Do pay tax still so not free really. It's on rt9 in Clifton Park
Bentley's in Malta, the mill in round lake, rusty nail in Clifton Park all same owner I believe. Basic bar foods really. Good eats though.
Bentley's does the wings on your birthday thing too.
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Bar food mainly not fine dining. Known for wings really. If your birthday you get however many wings your age is for free. Do pay tax still so not free really. It's on rt9 in Clifton Park
Bentley's in Malta, the mill in round lake, rusty nail in Clifton Park all same owner I believe. Basic bar foods really. Good eats though.
And have to purchase a beverage that comes with a commemorative plastic cup
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And have to purchase a beverage that comes with a commemorative plastic cup
You don't have to purchase that to get the wings deal, but if you do, you get a free one after you pay for the first (the cup is 32 oz). You can split the wings up among a party, prolly not the beer. Note you do pay a standard gratuity on the wings plus tax.
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You don't have to purchase that to get the wings deal, but if you do, you get a free one after you pay for the first (the cup is 32 oz). You can split the wings up among a party, prolly not the beer. Note you do pay a standard gratuity on the wings plus tax.
Man, they've been telling me for years that you had to purchase the drink
Now i have cups all over the place!
Thanks for the info. I heard the restaurant at the Embassy suites in Saratoga has the same deal as well.
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Beautiful day out on toga. Morning bite was tough but turned on big time around 130. Finally found the color they were looking for. Blue gils and crappie. Crappies up high in water column. Seem to come in pairs. Blue gils staying within 3' off bottom.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ns7gSn2S/20190309-141505.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ns7gSn2S)
(https://i.postimg.cc/TKKZmVD6/20190309-143049.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/TKKZmVD6)
(https://i.postimg.cc/YvTTxv6m/20190309-144647.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/YvTTxv6m)
(https://i.postimg.cc/pyZbtXHg/20190309-145108.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/pyZbtXHg)
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Very nice Steve! I have been considering a toga trip. Might just have to.
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Hows the ice on the north end? Thinking of taking the GF out tomorrow off Fitch or Browns. Just want to get her on a pan fish bite.
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Was drilling 17-20" today on south end....... machines and wheelers all over the place.... some cracks did start to open so be careful with the wet weather coming in tomorrow...
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Very nice Steve! I have been considering a toga trip. Might just have to.
Thank you sir..I enjoy toga. Fish were pretty aggressive this afternoon. Was a blast.
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What's the shallowest water you guys find the gills when ice fishing? About 40 years ago when I lived near the bridge I ran across a guy who was fishing in about 3' of water off Lee's campground. He was sight fishing, and had a nice pile of fish. You couldn't really see the fish, what you could see was the jig/spike disappear as the fish sucked it in. I think this was fairly late in the season.
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What's the shallowest water you guys find the gills when ice fishing? About 40 years ago when I lived near the bridge I ran across a guy who was fishing in about 3' of water off Lee's campground. He was sight fishing, and had a nice pile of fish. You couldn't really see the fish, what you could see was the jig/spike disappear as the fish sucked it in. I think this was fairly late in the season.
Shallowest I have fished was about 5'.
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As a long time sight fisherman I've seen many times where the BG's and Crappies were just a foot under the ice while fishing as deep as 15'. Those fish just under the ice were always on the large size. Sunny days seemed the best for this pattern. Saratoga Lake sure is a great fishery. Glad I live close by.
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Crappie bite was excellent before dark. Good times.
(https://i.postimg.cc/SnMLk25K/20190310-174546.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/SnMLk25K)
(https://i.postimg.cc/F71gCnV3/20190310-190532.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/F71gCnV3)
(https://i.postimg.cc/t1zx4hz9/20190304-095955.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/t1zx4hz9)
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I had good luck on the bluegills and bass tonite, 7 FOW. Only 2 crappies, though.
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Just got back from 2 wk. business in Europe - need an "Ice fix" - what are the conditions, edges in particular for Fitch?? - Thx
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Fitch was fine Sat am. Parked along 9p . Only stupid or brave soul out there. Did manage a handful of gills and lost a larger fish at hole. Ice was solid getting on , with lite slush on top. Still had spud and checked as I went. Ice was still 12-15 in thick easy. Except near some old 8in holes it was thinner.
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Thx - was out this morning - good ice conditions, a bit slick in spots - terrible bite, lots of looker, few takers - will try again tomorrow
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thanks for the headsup chessie. plan on hitting saratoga on tues or wed. one last road trip for the year. so many places to fish and so little time left.
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Skim ice around the south end of the lake this morning. Maybe it will lock up before Christmas.
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:o
;D
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Lake was open yesterday, froze last night. Saw someone walking near Brown's, but only about 50 yds out. Another day or two of cold and game on!!
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Lake was open yesterday, froze last night. Saw someone walking near Brown's, but only about 50 yds out. Another day or two of cold and game on!!
Lol that was me. I take it you were In the car watching me then took off...
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Has anyone been out there today . Hoping to get out next weekend
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Was at browns today 3 inches on the grey ice. The clear had 2.5 inches 40s and 50s all week probably wont be here hopefully it holds but probably wont be safe after tues or wed.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Yv8nS7wr/20191222-072500-HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Yv8nS7wr)
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I was on Fitch yesterday afternoon - pancake ice, very spooky - about 4" - no bite, 2 dink gills and 1 wanna-be-bass - I won't go out on it after today
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I fished Brown's last night, 3+" of hard black ice. I fished 8-10 feet and never marked a fish. Think there's too much light getting down there during the day, maybe morning would be better.
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Friend was out today had water coming out of the cracks when he was walking. Packed up and left. I am staying of it for sure.
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Any updates after the warm temps and rain this week? I’m having my doubts about anywhere in the capital district this weekend >:(
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A handful of guys were out on the south end today.
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out now off browns 4in iffy ice
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Anybody on the lake today?
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Didn't see anyone when I made the pass around the lake at 8.30am. Not sure if anyone tried later in the day. Didn't look to good. If anyone goes out better spud
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I fished Friday morning out of Brown's toward Snake Hill. 3.5-4" of hard black ice, a little thicker in toward shore. No fish to be seen (and I drilled a lot of holes, from 9' to 18'). Access from Brown's looked sketchy, but a couple careful steps and you're over the danger (only a few inches deep right at shore).
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Anyone have an update on ice thickness on Saratoga? Would like to fish out from Browns this evening.
Thanks
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I was off Fitch yesterday 4"-5" hard ice 200yds out, slippery w/snow take ice spikes - fair bite, had to really coax them off the bottom
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Lake Lonely has lots of people fishing, but that lake is much shallower so freeze must be good. Big problem is litter and many ice fishermen taking everything they catch has really reduced the fishing on Lake Lonely. Use to have nice sized bluegills/pike/perch/crappies, but those days are long gone.
Eagle Ed
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Great, thanks for the update gentlemen! :tipup:
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Lake Lonely has lots of people fishing, but that lake is much shallower so freeze must be good. Big problem is litter and many ice fishermen taking everything they catch has really reduced the fishing on Lake Lonely. Use to have nice sized bluegills/pike/perch/crappies, but those days are long gone.
Eagle Ed
I had a few fantastic days early season this year on lonely but i agree, especially once the season gets into gear, the fishing productivity starts to die off. I always snag any extra litter i find out there. I hate seeing that on the ice.
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Was out from Browns this evening with between 4-6 inches from ice.
The next few days is going to take a toll of the ice!
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5 inches south end one eye couple perch mid day bite nothing in the morning. Pretty sure I saw a guy drag his stuff out on a lawn mower off stony pointe 🤣
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Anyone out there today? Hoping to take a wheeler across the lake here in a couple days.
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Ive had 7 tip ups out on about 3- 4.5 inches all day and 2 all night on the south west side of the lake about One 20” walleye at 4:20 in about 5 feet of water.
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Any conditions update on toga? Shoreline looked rough in front of a webcam but that’s just one little spot on a big lake
Thanks
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Any conditions update on toga? Shoreline looked rough in front of a webcam but that’s just one little spot on a big lake
Thanks
Driving around the lake even with the new snow fall, and the last few cold days there are wet spots everywhereeeeeeeee.
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Anyone stumble across a hand auger Monday over by Fitch? Fell out of my sled on the way out. Thank you!
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Can I launch my snowmobile at browns beach?
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5 inches south end one eye couple perch mid day bite nothing in the morning. Pretty sure I saw a guy drag his stuff out on a lawn mower off stony pointe 🤣
I saw someone headed across the south end going west from Brown's on what looked like a lawnmower a week or so ago. Prolly wouldn't work once there's a little snow.
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Be careful with a machine. Was out today and ice thickness fluctuated a bit. From 5" plus to 3 or even a touch under 3" .
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Be careful with a machine. Was out today and ice thickness fluctuated a bit. From 5" plus to 3 or even a touch under 3" .
Bs...unless you was on 90' ft of water!
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Was over 21 feet . Not sure why u think I would lie about that but trying to be helpful to guys. Have a good one man
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Was over 21 feet . Not sure why u think I would lie about that but trying to be helpful to guys. Have a good one man
Was 6 yesterday and today when down to 3 ...hmm...where u hit 3 "?
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North end.
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Was over 21 feet . Not sure why u think I would lie about that but trying to be helpful to guys. Have a good one man
2x . I was on 3 inches last night . And not in 21 feet of water either . Snow insulated the ice . Very wet out there ! Not time for the Wheeler's yet
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Bs...unless you was on 90' ft of water!
If you think toga freezes with a consistent layer everywhere, your gonna learn the hard way. Even on good winters that lake can go from 12” to 5” of ice within a few steps. That lake is loaded with springs. Don’t fault someone for giving ice thicknesses even tho you might not agree with it. I would rather see someone under estimate then over estimate and some guy comes out on 2” of ice on a SXS and goes for a swim because now schmoe measured “8”
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If you think toga freezes with a consistent layer everywhere, your gonna learn the hard way. Even on good winters that lake can go from 12” to 5” of ice within a few steps. That lake is loaded with springs. Don’t fault someone for giving ice thicknesses even tho you might not agree with it. I would rather see someone under estimate then over estimate and some guy comes out on 2” of ice on a SXS and goes for a swim because now schmoe measured “8”
I can second that, I went to west Caroga this past weekend with the lady, walked out and there was a guy offshore and I asked how much he had and he said 7". I still decided to spud out and on my 3rd spud mark I went through on my first swing. There was a spot the size of a sewer cap that was 1 hit and through. He looked at me scratching his head. Best guess it was an old hole someone cut when we had a thaw. See it all the time late ice. Never trust the word of others. If you venture off main walking trails early ice always spud. Always a bad feeling when ur spud goes right through on 1 hit.
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There is a line once you get past 16 ft of water. Snow did insulate it the cold nights did crap. Only spot that are good are where it bled and flooded snow. After this rain sat and sunday it should be good if it gets cold again. Or it will be that double layer crap
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Just dont get it sled tracks everywhere on the lake.. it was pretty sketchy ice conditions out there varied alot fished almost out to stony point then decided to walk to snake hill ice was different ever hole I drilled. One of the weirdest years I've seen. Drilled between 3+- to 4.5 inches. Guy pulled in with a wheeler as I was leaving hope he left it on the trailer. Talking with another guy he got one eye. I caught a bunch of dink perch and 2 nice 14 15 in perch let them go and another one maybe 8 in or so. Very slow. Marked them but very skiddish.
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Can anyone confirm that wiggly worm opens at 5am on Saturday? Thanks
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Talked to gary this morning. Be open @ 5. See you there
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probably heading off Brown’s Sunday, if the rain doesn’t beat it up too much tomorrow night
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Use caution out there! I went from brown's beach yesterday and some areas my spud went through with one whack.
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Thanks. That’s what I was afraid of, looks dicey out there on the webcam.
Especially given the fact that my fishing buddy Sunday is my daughter!
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Anyone fish off of Fitch rd this week? How’s parking on the shoreline or is that a total nay?
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Was off Fitch this afternoon, 4-5", shore sketchy on edges, I wouldn't drive on to park - slow pick on gills
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Was off Fitch this afternoon, 4-5", shore sketchy on edges, I wouldn't drive on to park - slow pick on gills
Better than no pick.
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Well cold snap did zero with the snow on it . i had 5 inches measured in one spot 3.3/4 10 yds away off browns. My jiffy was ripping through like it was spring ice. About a hr or so my area flooded. Ankle deep with water turned it to soup. The rain wont help but might. No real cold to freeze solid.
(https://i.postimg.cc/jndxXF3S/20200124-193602-HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jndxXF3S)
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That’s what I was afraid of. Guess me and the princess are heading north on a road trip.
I appreciate the update
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Out yesterday and experience the same ice conditions as described above. We were on about 5 inches but the ice was so soft we were able to throw the spud bar through in two hard hits.
Bite was slow
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I fished the northern part of the lake yesterday. We hooked 6 walleyes. Caught 4 of them. Caught 7 perch. Rainy day.
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Hey Redd how much of ice there?
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First time trying Saratoga, planning a trip this Saturday. Can I get on the lake from Brown Beach? Also any tips are appreciated, not looking for anyone's hot spot but a spot to catch fish is a plus. I don't eat fish so, just like to get flags. Catch Photo Release
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Any info on ice conditions on South end of the lake browns beach Stony point ??
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Reasons why priveladges get taken away. Why are people so lazy? Truck parked on 9p facing traffic with truck partially in lane..cars have to slow and go around it...park on fitch like the everyone else. Another car parked on private property. Maybe has permission but doubt it. Then someone took a crap on side of fitch right where people park. Unbelievable. Slobs
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(https://i.postimg.cc/23TSfn5y/20200131-084340.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/23TSfn5y)
Like I said. Dont park on 9p. Ticket for this guy
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(https://i.postimg.cc/23TSfn5y/20200131-084340.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/23TSfn5y)
Like I said. Dont park on 9p. Ticket for this guy
Good!! Hope they tow it
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How the fishing an ice any reports would be appreciated :tipup:
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Never fished off Brown’s but going to give it a whirl tomorrow. Do people find more success with tip-ups or being mobile and jigging?
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Never fished off Brown’s but going to give it a whirl tomorrow. Do people find more success with tip-ups or being mobile and jigging?
I should have noted I am targeting anything that will bite: panfish, pickerel, walleye or the rare Saratoga northern
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Hey Redd how much of ice there?
3 inches of ice
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I should have noted I am targeting anything that will bite: panfish, pickerel, walleye or the rare Saratoga northern
I’m on the Riley cove side of the lake, but I’ve been having more success with smaller baits on tip ups. We’ve drilled dozens and dozens of holes and dropped a finder down but still can’t get on the pan fish on our side of the lake.
As for ice, be careful of those bled out holes. You’ve got patches of an inch in some places ESPECIALLY around the hot springs. You can drop from 5” to 2” in a hurry. That said I was out a half mile or more and had 5” of ice with 3” of slush on top of it.
There are also these visible seams, massive cracks in the ice that you can follow, and you will find very consistent 8” of ice. Just be smart about it, be safe about it. I drill a LOT of holes and measure all of them.
The guys making sled tracks all over the lake are on 800s and 1000s and don’t stop until they get back to their front yard. Get those monster engine sleds on plane and you can go across a good stretch of open water, let alone thin ice.
Hope I’ve helped a little. I wish you many flags.
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I’m on the Riley cove side of the lake, but I’ve been having more success with smaller baits on tip ups. We’ve drilled dozens and dozens of holes and dropped a finder down but still can’t get on the pan fish on our side of the lake.
As for ice, be careful of those bled out holes. You’ve got patches of an inch in some places ESPECIALLY around the hot springs. You can drop from 5” to 2” in a hurry. That said I was out a half mile or more and had 5” of ice with 3” of slush on top of it.
There are also these visible seams, massive cracks in the ice that you can follow, and you will find very consistent 8” of ice. Just be smart about it, be safe about it. I drill a LOT of holes and measure all of them.
The guys making sled tracks all over the lake are on 800s and 1000s and don’t stop until they get back to their front yard. Get those monster engine sleds on plane and you can go across a good stretch of open water, let alone thin ice.
Hope I’ve helped a little. I wish you many flags.
Very helpful, thank you. Riley Cove has always been kind to me in open water, caught the biggest pike I’ve ever caught on Saratoga their a few Memorial Days go. Don’t think the princess will walk as far as I want to, but we’ll get out as far as feel safe heading to snake hill, find the dropoff and enjoy the day together.
Thanks again for your time
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(https://i.postimg.cc/0b3t8VN2/20200201-122257-HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0b3t8VN2)
Walked by 3 today off fitch 2 were just opening this bigger was over 24 ft so watch where you walk. And keep a eye on the kids!
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(https://i.postimg.cc/0b3t8VN2/20200201-122257-HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0b3t8VN2)
Walked by 3 today off fitch 2 were just opening this bigger was over 24 ft so watch where you walk. And keep a eye on the kids!
Fished off Brown’s until noon. We had 10 tip ups out and caught fish on 8 of them. Jigging was not as successful. Unofficially ice was 5” everywhere. Didn’t measure, just an estimate using skimmer.
Someday I’ll catch a walleye through the ice there.....
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(https://i.postimg.cc/0b3t8VN2/20200201-122257-HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0b3t8VN2)
Walked by 3 today off fitch 2 were just opening this bigger was over 24 ft so watch where you walk. And keep a eye on the kids!
Saw a few of these off Browns as well, nothing near the size you saw of Fitch
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There dangerous!! Now we have more snow coming Thursday fri going to cover them up again.
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Not too familiar with how Brown’s freezes, but I don’t like the looks of the far right....
Gonna be cold starting tomorrow night hope it firms up for the weekend.
(https://i.postimg.cc/JGmSY3SQ/93-D53-C0-D-93-F8-40-DD-813-F-165-E06-E275-F9.png) (https://postimg.cc/JGmSY3SQ)
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I fished the northern part of the lake yesterday. We caught 4 walleye in the morning. Nothing in the afternoon. 5 inches of ice.
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Hows it lookin after all this crap we ended up with?
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Hows it lookin after all this crap we ended up with?
Lots of wet spots out there. Looks like a mine field.
The good thing is, the bad spots you can visually see now.
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Colder overnight lows should firm up some of the wet spots. Here’s to hoping
(https://i.postimg.cc/NyRprSJ6/3-D214910-98-CC-45-EB-A199-6098183-D926-E.png) (https://postimg.cc/NyRprSJ6)
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Anyone make it out? Webcam is down. Can’t tell if that wet mess off Browns from the storm yesterday firmed up
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Tournament today maybe someone will post conditions later this afternoon
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Tournament today maybe someone will post conditions later this afternoon
What tournament? I had no idea there was one
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Anyone able to park a truck on the shoreline across from Fitch rd yet?
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Anyone able to park a truck on the shoreline across from Fitch rd yet?
No man. Park your truck off the side of fitch road and walk the short distance to the lake, unless you want a hefty bill for removing your truck from the lake.
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No man. Park your truck off the side of fitch road and walk the short distance to the lake, unless you want a hefty bill for removing your truck from the lake.
Double ditto on that one!
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Thanks. I don’t mind the walk at all I just know that parking gets limited on the side of Fitch. Can people park in that little pull off area next to the main road or is that private.
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Thanks. I don’t mind the walk at all I just know that parking gets limited on the side of Fitch. Can people park in that little pull off area next to the main road or is that private.
No parking signs there. If referring to small spot off Fitch on corner 9p
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Was wondering if anyone has fished out of Waterfront Park. If so, how is the parking and that hill?
Any info appreciated.
Thanks
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Dumb question. I know there has been bad springs and what not but has there been much sled/atv action on the lake. Dying to get to good water
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Dumb question. I know there has been bad springs and what not but has there been much sled/atv action on the lake. Dying to get to good water
Haven’t seen a machine out since the last warm up/ rain mess two weeks ago
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Dying to get to good water
Not a good ICE FISHING term to be using with the Winter we are having....h2l
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Lol I guess not...
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Ice... no machines have been out there and they also canceled the atv races off browns that’s happening in a few weeks if that tells you anything.
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There was quad tracks off fitch other day when we were out. it was about 7" ice. Some white ice towards top but good ice. Not saying whole lake is like that but se have been drilling 7-8" consistantly past few outtings
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IFSteve.....hows the walking out there, tough?
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IFSteve.....hows the walking out there, tough?
Drag wasnt fun. Wet snow so sled was sticking a bit. Wasnt much snow on the lake before these past few small totals. I dont live far from lake and got 3" snow this am but good chunk has melted. So I'm sure it's a sticky drag but ice was fine in areas we fished
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This cold snap make it easy peezy drag
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Should be able to take the truck out on the lake this weekend with this cold snap good luck out there.......
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Should be able to take the truck out on the lake this weekend with this cold snap good luck out there.......
Wheelers/sleds sure but given the way the season has been I don’t really think it’s the year to take trucks out there. Maybe in a couple weeks if the cold pattern continues but this weekend I would be hesitant.
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Wouldn't catch me on that lake with a truck....
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Should be able to take the truck out on the lake this weekend with this cold snap good luck out there.......
Lol your gunna be in for a rude awakening
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2 nights of cold doesn't make up for a winter of crap ice. no way I take any machine out this year.
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Heading out tomorrow afternoon/evening. Smitty sled or no smitty sled? Probably off Brown’s
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Truck was a joke just like seeing the response 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤣🤣🤣🤣
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Anyone have ice thickness off of Browns? Near Snake Hill?
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Anyone have ice thickness off of Browns? Near Snake Hill?
Flood, last time I checked was last weekend..6 inches everywhere I drilled. I only walked halfway from Browns to SH though. There were some fisherman over there though, both on the South side of SH and on the drop-off. Good luck, hopefully if your season is ending, you have a great day out there first.
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Drilled a consistent 10” on north end today. Bite was very light for me. Dink perch and average seeds all went back to grow.
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Fished Brown’s yesterday until 1pm. Ice was no less than 10” everywhere I drilled. Slow day, just 4 for our efforts. Machines of all sorts out and about.
Seems like the majority of people out weren’t chasing flags, until the wind picked up.
We’ll get em next time...
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Fished Brown’s yesterday until 1pm. Ice was no less than 10” everywhere I drilled. Slow day, just 4 for our efforts. Machines of all sorts out and about.
Seems like the majority of people out weren’t chasing flags, until the wind picked up.
We’ll get em next time...
People consistently out to snake hill area?
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People all over, but most access from Brown's so the further away from there, the fewer people.
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Tough bite today. Absolutely beautiful out though. Will try again tomorrow. Planning on fishing spots I never fished before. Get off beaten path a bit.
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People consistently out to snake hill area?
I was on south end of the hill yesterday long walk but very safe big crack just south of the hill, it looked scary but solid
fished off Fitch today and got nothing for my efforts but I do know that others are catchin Just not my day
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I was on south end of the hill yesterday long walk but very safe big crack just south of the hill, it looked scary but solid
fished off Fitch today and got nothing for my efforts but I do know that others are catchin Just not my day
Thanks for the info. I wouldn’t be walking, that’s why I was curious on the ice conditions over there.
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Always fun to learn new areas. Still fairly slow but managed some decent perch and a walleye. Snow is getting slushy on top of ice but that's it. Rain should melt off the rest of the snow in next couple days
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Always fun to learn new areas. Still fairly slow but managed some decent perch and a walleye. Snow is getting slushy on top of ice but that's it. Rain should melt off the rest of the snow in next couple days
Here’s hoping
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Hows the ice looking? Still thick and i assume glassy? Will be there in the morning with the wheeler!
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Question Went off browns yesterday to north side of Snake Hill. Small pressure crack on South side going out, no problem. Comming back it looked like the crack opened up in one spot about 15 to 20 feet of open water. Did'nt go near it but was wondering if this is possiable.
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This is quite possible especialy when the wind blows like it has been. Take a look at the access off fitch rd the wind has pushed the ice up into a pressure ridge on shore over 2' high ice moves all the time your crack was probably only a few inches wide but looked big because pressure forced the water up on top making it look scary you did right....avoid it
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Ended up going someplace else. Stopped down to brows the access looked iffy didnt wanna distroy it for the guys on foot.
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Lots of ice this weekend once you get one but the shore line might be at risk this week with warm temps. We had close to 10 inches of glare ice. Definitely need creepers.
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I will more than likely be on it next weekend. Will prob be on foot tho :( wont be able to get to the spot iv been eyeing on the maps. To all the guys hunkered up off of browns. Are you guys on the panfish? Im assuming an a bass or a walleye or a pike every now and then?
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Anyone know why airboats were on Saratoga today around 1 o’clock? I guess they picked two guys up but I don’t know if there’s more to the story.
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Report on Facebook that two persons on a machine went through off Brown's Beach. They are out but their machine is not.
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Yikes. How far out from shore did the go through?
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Further report on Facebook was they were on a side by side a couple of hundred yards off Snake Hill heading back towards Brown's when they went through. An exact location was not given.
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Glad they’re okay, going to be an expensive trip. Not sure I would have walked off brown’s today by the looks of the webcam
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I was out this morning off Brown's. No problem, still 10" of ice, top bit is soft but rest still solid. There are a couple cracks fairly close to Brown's but not hard to get over them. There were a couple of guys with an ice boat yesterday, but ice was too soft and the wind wasn't strong enough to make up for it.
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I drove around the lake today around 12:30 and I guess I just missed the guys going through around 1. Me and my father saw the 2 guys on a side by side right in the middle of the lake, just north of snake hill.
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That's it for access at Brown's. The lake came up a foot or more (not sure if that was rain or they closed the gates on the dam), and what ice is near the shore is only a couple inches thick, with lots of water. A long plank might get you out, but I found out the hard way that one of the larger floes won't support you. Luckily its only a few inches deep, and I didn't really go through, just fell and the ice submerged, so I got wet and couldn't drive around and see if Fitch or the launch ramp had access.
Its been my experience in the past that when the lake comes up it is sometimes possible to use the launch ramp, since the ice goes straight up and down with the level of the lake instead of opening a gap. That could be in the past, with all the bubblers around the bridge area anymore.
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Was wide open under the budge last weekend
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Any ice left up in fish creek? Can you get on?
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The main part of the lake is completely iced over this morning, but it looks sketchy. It was open before the storm, so most of the new ice will have very little snow on top. There was a couple hundred yards of ice at the south end before the storm. There are a number of wet cracks going across the lake, so I don't think its safe yet. A couple more days with low temps and low winds should do it.
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Gonna have to start all over again. The lake opened up with the wind and the rain. A couple groups were fishing a hundred yards or so out from Brown's before then. Let's hope it gets cold with no wind soon.
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Can`t wait to fish for walleye`s... :tipup:
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Anyone fishing on saratoga or brant lake yet
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Has anyone caught any trout in saratoga lake
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Can’t say I’ve seen a trout pulled out of Saratoga, open or hard water
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Has anyone caught any trout in saratoga lake
Sewer trout maybe
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Has anyone caught any trout in saratoga lake
I witnessed my buddy catch a brookie years ago and then another person I know also caught a brookie (both while crappie fishing). Those are the only two I know of and I've lived in toga for 30 years.
Needless to say, not something you want to target.
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I would agree that they aren't really a plentiful species in the lake. The Kaydeross does flow into there and that's probably where the trout come from.
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Has anyone caught any trout in saratoga lake
Funny this question came up last year few more get lost then people think apparently
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I personally caught a 14" rainbow on Saratoga during summer of 2018 while trolling for walleye
I've fished that lake since the early 70's and that's the first and only I've ever seen must have come down the Kaydeross
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Hello everyone,
Last night I was out on 2" of crystal clear ice on the south side of the lake scouting. Spider cracking like crazy, but being able to see bottom so clearly was too good to pass up.
This morning at 6:30 we were looking at an uncommonly uniform 2.5" on the south side of the lake, and significantly less spider cracking.
I am going to try to go out this evening, and tomorrow morning I would expect to see 3", but I will update as soon as I can get a measuring tape with actual numbers.
UPDATE: A friend tells me that the north side of the lake is a solid 6". This is because after the large storm and warm spell, they opened the dam, and the ice began to flow toward fish creek. The creek and surrounding areas are subsequently 6".
I access from my home on the south of the lake, but it appears that the north side is fishable for anyone accessing from the State boat launch or the kayak launch.
So as for the south side of the lake (Including Browns Beach, where I know many access)... We are very close boys and girls, VERY close, and on the north, GO FISH!
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Great report innes6! Keep us updated and fingers crossed for a healthier 4-5” ice by this coming weekend
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Are there any updates on the conditions of Round Lake or Ballston Lake or any of the other lakes in the Saratoga Area?
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Has anyone caught any trout in saratoga lake
I caught one bullhead fishing years ago , a friend of mine caught 2 while crappie fishing off of Snake Hill on the same morning 3 years ago
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Are there any updates on the conditions of Round Lake or Ballston Lake or any of the other lakes in the Saratoga Area?
They are frozen, but have only been frozen all the way through for under 2 weeks. There have been a few people on them but not much. I do not know actual ice measurements.
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Lots of guys out on the south end the last 3 days. 3" of hard ice this afternoon. First fishermen on the latest ice were observed Friday.
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4" ice on toga where we fished. Did pretty good on the gils. Decent amount of guys on south end. Saw a guy out on ice w quad. Seems early for that but to each their own.
(https://i.postimg.cc/N9mzfp5y/20210112-125132.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/N9mzfp5y)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Kk8DCftS/20210112-113904.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Kk8DCftS)
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4" ice on toga where we fished. Did pretty good on the gils. Decent amount of guys on south end. Saw a guy out on ice w quad. Seems early for that but to each their own.
(https://i.postimg.cc/N9mzfp5y/20210112-125132.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/N9mzfp5y)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Kk8DCftS/20210112-113904.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Kk8DCftS)
Way to get out. I saw your gear on shore via your cam (thanks for that by the way) wasn’t sure if you headed out and went back in the house.
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We ventured out to the new ice on the south end this evening, it was about 2.5”, I was breaking through on the 3rd hit with my spud. Just a little too thin for our comfort level. We did watch a group of boys ice skate from the east shore 3/4 the way across towards the Kayaderros and then north to Mannings, not very smart, hope they stayed dry. Fishing was slow.
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Hey everyone I have a quick question for you. What is the average size range of the walleye in Saratoga lake?
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Hey everyone I have a quick question for you. What is the average size range of the walleye in Saratoga lake?
Most of the eyes ive caught on toga have been in the 17-21" range
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Thanks man, those are a good average size and fun to fish for. What size length would you consider to be catching a good one there?
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Thanks man, those are a good average size and fun to fish for. What size length would you consider to be catching a good one there?
We get a ton of 5-6lbers during open water season... which go 25-26”.
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Very cool! Those are some nice ones.
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Slower day today on lake. Tried south end jigging and tip ups. Few bass on tip ups and very very finicky fish jigging. Lots of lookers and not many takers. Very lite bite. Fished from 11-4. Good amount of guys out nite bite action.
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Ice thickness?
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Slower day today on lake. Tried south end jigging and tip ups. Few bass on tip ups and very very finicky fish jigging. Lots of lookers and not many takers. Very lite bite. Fished from 11-4. Good amount of guys out nite bite action.
Lots of recent posts on FB I am hearing. Might be why there's so many out there. Then again what else is there to do thats better than ice fishing.
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Lots of recent posts on FB I am hearing. Might be why there's so many out there. Then again what else is there to do thats better than ice fishing.
Nothing!
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Nothing better than ice fishing even before the pandemic hit!
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Nothing better than ice fishing even before the pandemic hit!
The lack of work, school or online work has made fishing quite popular this year open water as well
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The lack of work, school or online work has made fishing quite popular this year open water as well
Same for duck and goose hunting. Guys were all over this year. Triple the guys that nomally we see out. It sucked.
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Lots of recent posts on FB I am hearing. Might be why there's so many out there. Then again what else is there to do thats better than ice fishing.
Toga usually gets more traffic on years with less ice elsewhere. Especially early
Safe ice on Lake George, sacandaga and Champlain usually takes the pressure off toga.
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Toga usually gets more traffic on years with less ice elsewhere. Especially early
Safe ice on Lake George, sacandaga and Champlain usually takes the pressure off toga.
Thats a good point.
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How much Ice off Fitch?
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5 or 6 last Monday
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There was 5 inches off Fitch this afternoon.
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There was 5 inches off Fitch this afternoon.
Thanks for the update boofish. Hoping to make a trip there to fish gills during the day.
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Hello everyone. I e wanted to fish this lake for years but not sure on the parking situation. I’ve heard about browns beach but you have to pay correct? I was planning on getting there late at night after work and fishing through the night. Would that be a problem with parking there? I would greatly appreciate a reply and good luck out there!
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Browns beach is free to access, there's also Fitch Rd and the State Launch, all of which are free
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Browns beach is free to access, there's also Fitch Rd and the State Launch, all of which are free
Thank you for the reply! Will be sure to post a report if I get out there.
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Went out of waterfront park today. About 5” of ice but was kind of slow, mostly small perch on top ups with a few keepers.
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Wasn’t as successful out of Browns today. Didn’t measure ice, probably 4,5”-5” but solid. spudded my way out, many folks spent the day surviving the wind. Didn’t see much flag chasing, including from my Clam
Guess they’ll be hungry tomorrow
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Fished out of browns yesterday. 4" of ice. We set 10 tip ups and jigged in the shelter. 1 perch on a tip up and nothing jigging, lots of lookers but nothing would commit.
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Fished Saratoga last Wednesday with my son. Caught 8 walleye`s. Missed 3 by the hole. One big perch. 4-6 inches of ice. Good day. ;D
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Fished Saratoga last Wednesday with my son. Caught 8 walleye`s. Missed 3 by the hole. One big perch. 4-6 inches of ice. Good day. ;D
Very impressive. You must have avoided the crowds at browns to pull out those numbers. Any size to the eyes?
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Fished the lake for my first time yesterday. Launched off of Brown's and had a real slow day. One perch jigging in about 6 hours of fishing. My battery on my Marcum decided not to work when I checked it before going out so I wasn't sure how many fish were around. I could hear other groups around me saying they were marking fish but nothing would commit. Anyways, I'm heading back out on Saturday and hoping to find some 'eyes. Stay safe out there.
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Very impressive. You must have avoided the crowds at browns to pull out those numbers. Any size to the eyes?
The lakes pretty large browns isn’t the only spot not even really a spot if you ask me just an access
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Agreed. Browns is the last place I would fish. Maybe park there but then I'd be walking a loooong ways. Might head out exploring Saratoga on Sunday. Any slush out there?
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Agreed. Browns is the last place I would fish. Maybe park there but then I'd be walking a loooong ways. Might head out exploring Saratoga on Sunday. Any slush out there?
Ice was bare when I was there Monday
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Anyone making it out mid lake yet. I might come explore on Sunday for eyes but don't want to fish close to anyone.
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Tried tips and jigging for eyes last night but didnt find anybody hungry. barely marked anything and what we did mark was gone in a jiff. Only fish of the evening was a 17" fallfish so at least it wasnt a skunk. Measured 5" of ice.
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Adironzach ... I had the same experience and idenentical ice thickness. Very slow night but the weather was nice(no wind). When jigging for eyes, do you use the whole minnow or cut it in half?
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Iv had my best luck on toga dead sticking a 2nd rod. Main rod seems to bring them in but they hit the dead stick 10-1. Iv also found dead sticking with lighter tackle tiny hooks and a neutral buoyancy float helps. When I have had them hit the jig or spoon its been just the head.
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Iv also found that being alone goes a long way. Get away from the crowds.
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Adironzach ... I had the same experience and idenentical ice thickness. Very slow night but the weather was nice(no wind). When jigging for eyes, do you use the whole minnow or cut it in half?
Weather was beautiful. I was properly dressed so it made bouncing around trying to find them much easier. didnt have to move shanty around as i could fish exposed. when i tip my lures, ill use half a minnow normally. if theyre on the smaller side ill use a whole one. I tend to try and switch up fairly often to dial it in, however without marks it makes that a lot more challenging. i threw swimbaits, spoons, a couple different types of lipless, and a couple jiggin raps. Just wasnt in the right spot unfortunetely. Toga always frustrates me. Past few years have resulted in mostly disappointing outings compared to mid 2010s when i was first getting into the hardwater. its so close to home tho i tend to still keep trying when i get the chance to make it out last minute.
Iv also found that being alone goes a long way. Get away from the crowds.
I'll agree with you there. especially on toga. i feel like the eyes there are a bit skiddish. I dont like fishing around ppl to begin with so im always trying to keep my distance. We (1 other buddy with me) were the only ppl i could see out last night from where we setup
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Skidding is the way id describe it as well. Although every time I plan a night bite trip it seems like I can’t avoid the wind, so searching for them has been a little more taxing in my attempts.
And yes, get past the crowds, which doesn’t take much since most hover near the shoreline, is my tactic as well
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Hows it look heading towards snake hill? Have the wheeler loaded incase its good ice but I have a feeling ill be hoofing it. Heard there was water on the south end?
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I’m not a machine guy. But I haven’t seen any out at this point so far this year. Drag has been easy, bare ice for the most part.
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Never have problems running quads or sleds. But lake isnt ready for it yet. Hate to see you in the drink. If you were with me last weekend you wouldn't think there was enough to walk on. I stay after dark and had me freaked out. There's a 4 ft wide probably 6 ft wide crack now from stoney point runs to cabins. Gets smaller mid lake to cabins then splits and goes to the hill. There are more blow holes on west side then i ever seen. Was one off stoney in 24 ft the size of a garbage can. Mid lake is junk open spots and cracks. It took 4 turns with mora. Not that you dont know what your doing. Its the others that dont have a clue and see you and think its safe everywhere.
Hows it look heading towards snake hill? Have the wheeler loaded incase its good ice but I have a feeling ill be hoofing it. Heard there was water on the south end?
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Totally get it man. Lakes been weird last couple years. Gonna just hump my way out there save the wheeler for a later time. Took a drive around Lake looks funky saw what you are talking about hopefully I can get by it saw one guy out in the deep water. We shall see.
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Out yesterday also from Waterfront Park and then across toward Franklin. from 2:30 to 6:15. Good ice about 5in. and decent weather. Had a few flags, they would take some line but no hook ups. The bait would be marked up a little but not hurt. Not sure bout mid lake, but guys were out everywhere else I looked including Snake Hill.
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Very impressive. You must have avoided the crowds at browns to pull out those numbers. Any size to the eyes?
We did`nt fish off Brown`s beach. We were at the North end of the lake. Can`t give up my spot though... Biggest `eye was 19".
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I've been on the south end a few times so far, finally got one walleye last Friday. There were a few machines on the ice, but ice was boarderline, I'm actually surprised there weren't reports on any going through. We were on 5" of ice, but I can guarantee it's not 5" everywhere. Last I heard it was still open under the bridge at state launch, that 2nd hand account was no more than a week ago. I'd exercise extreme caution with machines, and walking is very easy now anyway. Bring cleats.
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Hit Saratoga today. Negative bite day. 2 big perch. One walleye. 24" toothy slimmer. Windy day...
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Anyone have much luck night fishing on Saratoga lake? Browns a decent spot to try to go for some walleye? Depth ranges or recommendations? Thanks!
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Anyone have much luck night fishing on Saratoga lake? Browns a decent spot to try to go for some walleye? Depth ranges or recommendations? Thanks!
Well, my homemade tipup lights have been much more successful than my fishing.
After 6 or so trips, I can say 8-10' seems too shallow and 20-23' seems too deep. Or I'm missing something.
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Not as easy as you would think with the stocking program at Saratoga. Still waiting for my first hardwater walleye there. Have fished both north and south this season unsuccessfully
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I've been out 6 times at night and the walleye bite is remarkably slower this year. Not sure why. ??? We had much success last seaso. This year not so much.
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I would be setting up now if it weren't for the 15mph gusting to 25mph wind forecasted. Been about 3mph here for the last few hours.
I loath meteorologists. I would honestly be better off without seeing a forecast. I need to start to only look at the radar.
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I would be setting up now if it weren't for the 15mph gusting to 25mph wind forecasted. Been about 3mph here for the last few hours.
I loath meteorologists. I would honestly be better off without seeing a forecast. I need to start to only look at the radar.
I agree I’ve given up almost entirely basing any decisions on what they forecast. I just use a radar app for precipitation. I got burned this past weekend they forecast 1mph winds and they’re were 10-15mph maybe more. The misses was not happy
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Anybody running wheelers up and down the middle of the lake? Also does browns accommodate trailer parking or is it frowned on by the town?
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Anybody running wheelers up and down the middle of the lake? Also does browns accommodate trailer parking or is it frowned on by the town?
I've been running my snowmobile up the lake from brown's. Doesn't seem to be any issue ar long as people park trailers decently.
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I saw a ATV on the south end last weekend. I also had lots of snowmobile traffic too. We had about 8 inchs of black ice where I was. That said we all know they lake has springs and the ice doesnt form the same everywhere on the lake. Ba safe and good luck.
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Not as easy as you would think with the stocking program at Saratoga. Still waiting for my first hardwater walleye there. Have fished both north and south this season unsuccessfully
Man I practically pooped out a walleye last week
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Are there Lakers in Saratoga? Looks like it’s up to 90’ deep.
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Are there Lakers in Saratoga? Looks like it’s up to 90’ deep.
Lol
No
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We actually found a dead laker at the state boat launch this fall during hunting season. Yes I know there are no lakers in toga.
I bet someone had it in their live well from dif body of water and tossed it at the launch. When we went to put boat on trailer im like is that a laker? 100% was.
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We actually found a dead laker at the state boat launch this fall during hunting season. Yes I know there are no lakers in toga.
I bet someone had it in their live well from dif body of water and tossed it at the launch. When we went to put boat on trailer im like is that a laker? 100% was.
I believe it. People do all kinds of things.
10 years ago I found 2 dead walleye right after ice out in round lake. Thing is, the walleye were giants. One was 29” and the other was 31”. I saw them dead, floating in the marsh and I went to lip one because I thought it was a huge dead bass and instantly felt the teeth. Picked it up and put it in the boat.. huge walleye. I measured it. I looked around and literally 10 yards away was the other 31” one... I grew up there and have been fishing that lake constantly for 30 years. There are no walleye in there... I can only assume someone dumped them in from a attempt from the Mohawk River and they managed to live a few years and grow... just like what they did with smallies there... or they were some of the last survivors from the ballston lake stocking back in the early 90’s and happened to make it down ballston creek into round. Regardless, very odd. I took pictures of them but can’t remember where they are. They might even be on my old MySpace lol
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Hi I was wondering if anyone had any recent ice conditions for the south end of the lake by stony point area any info would be greatly appreciated
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Hi I was wondering if anyone had any recent ice conditions for the south end of the lake by stony point area any info would be greatly appreciated
I was last out two days ago, 8" ice on the south half of the lake where I've checked. Maybe around 4" of average snow cover.
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Saw a ton of people out on the lake this weekend. Anyone have any luck??
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Saw a ton of people out on the lake this weekend. Anyone have any luck??
Not me, out both days no walleyes for us. I can catch them in open water, but still playing where's waldo on ice.
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Not me, out both days no walleyes for us. I can catch them in open water, but still playing where's waldo on ice.
Same experience for me yesterday. Moved quite a bit looking for Walleye the Walleye. Can’t figure that place out.
Did manage a few jumbo perch for the fry pan. Ice was never less than 7”, unofficially measured with my skimmer
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Sounds like me as well. In search of walleye all weekend.
I managed a few jumbo perch as well.
Maybe next weekend 👍
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many successful walleye trips last year on the ice .... this year has been terrible.... I'm wondering if the lake saw more pressure this year during open water.
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many successful walleye trips last year on the ice .... this year has been terrible.... I'm wondering if the lake saw more pressure this year during open water.
You should try the North end. Brown`s is hit and miss. Last year and this year the North end has produced walleye`s for us quite a bit. We are using small suckers on tip up`s 2-4 feet off bottom in deep water. Can`t tell you my spot though... :whistle:
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Well, my homemade tipup lights have been much more successful than my fishing.
After 6 or so trips, I can say 8-10' seems too shallow and 20-23' seems too deep. Or I'm missing something.
We fish in 35-47 fow. Seems to work. :icefish:
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Thanks reddog11, I'll give it a shot.
The one day I went to 41ft on the north end I forgot to bring jigging rods, and never fished.
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Is there parking at Fitch after the recent snow we got? Ty
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I saw 1 hub off fitch today out a ways. I didnt fish off fitch personally today but the plows always have made room on side of rd since I have been goin there. I cant i.agine that has changed as of recently. We fished north end today. Pretty slow jigging. Good crust and now slush under snow in spots. Sink when step. Drag is definitely not as easy now.
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Fished out from fitch yesterday from 3pm til dark.. Only managed 3 perch and 1 slime dart on tips-ups. Only lookers while jigging.
Couldn't find the deep water, went out a ways and still only managed to get into depths of 16ft.
Plenty of ice everywhere I drilled.
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Deeper water easy 1/4 to 1/2 mile out from fitch.
Still breaking through snow to slush to ice?
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Slush seemed to be contained towards the middle of the lake.
Maybe an ice of slush with 3-4 inches of snow
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Thanks Iceman
Took a ride up today check things out. No slush south end and off fitch. Certainly not like earlier in the week.
Not many out.
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Sunday prob get a sloppy again. Little warm up. Im sure last night buttoned up some slush. I was surprised by the lack of ice near state launch. Most of it was junk white ice. Safe but I thought be thicker for. Shows how snow can insulate ice pretty good. Caught this pigster
(https://i.postimg.cc/fk7wFM36/20210211-091737.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/fk7wFM36)
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Any trucks going out of browns or not thick enough yet? I know the lot fills up quick especially with trailer combos.
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Any trucks going out of browns or not thick enough yet? I know the lot fills up quick especially with trailer combos.
Someone sent me this pic and said toga from few days ago. I never heard a word about it and didn't see it for myself so not sure if it was accurate. Looks like toga. I dont want to spread misinfo so take it for whats its worth. Maybe someone can confirm or deny.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Js0sXHbw/Screensho1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Js0sXHbw)
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Someone sent me this pic and said toga from few days ago. I never heard a word about it and didn't see it for myself so not sure if it was accurate. Looks like toga. I dont want to spread misinfo so take it for whats its worth. Maybe someone can confirm or deny.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Js0sXHbw/Screensho1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Js0sXHbw)
That was 3 years ago and was a 19 year old kid that drove his dads dodge 3500 Cummins with a stainless v plow over a ice break. That was the result.
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That was 3 years ago and was a 19 year old kid that drove his dads dodge 3500 Cummins with a stainless v plow over a ice break. That was the result.
Ok that makes sense. I fish toga a bit and live close by and didnt hear anything about it. I dont have Facebook to look for myself. Looked expensive. Thank you for confirming.
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Anyone have info on access and ice off of Fitch?
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Fished off Browns yesterday, 2/13. Ice was solid 8” + everywhere I punched holes. Caught some perch but still can’t find walleye. Someday, someday I will figure it out ...
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Just a general walleye bait question. Has anyone had success catching them consistently with small suckers? Are you generally doing better with fatheads or md shiners?
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If you recently fished browns beach and “little Joe” means something to you PM me with a description
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Ok that makes sense. I fish toga a bit and live close by and didnt hear anything about it. I dont have Facebook to look for myself. Looked expensive. Thank you for confirming.
Yeah, no problem. My wife actually showed me the pic going around on fb.
The complete story is entertaining tho. This kid and his friends drove his own Silverado out there. Tried to cross the ice break with it. This was in the dark. Front end dropped down. Half the truck was in the lake. Instead of Calling for help, the genius kid thought it would be a good idea to go back to his house, and take his fathers truck in the middle of the night without him knowing, to drive it out there to pull his own truck. I’m telling ya, the mindset of some people I just don’t get... so a lighter truck (his own) went in the lake, so he thought it would be a good idea to grab his dads truck that was a thousand pounds heavier or so, to get his truck out... well as you can see in the pic, his dads truck went right to the bottom of the lake. Sat there for almost 2 weeks before they would get it out..... if you do a google search you can probably find the whole news report on it. It’s very entertaining. They had a mini excavator out there and everything to get it out.
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Someone sent me this pic and said toga from few days ago. I never heard a word about it and didn't see it for myself so not sure if it was accurate. Looks like toga. I dont want to spread misinfo so take it for whats its worth. Maybe someone can confirm or deny.
(https://i.postimg.cc/Js0sXHbw/Screensho1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Js0sXHbw)
My buddy lives by Toga lake and said a truck went in recently off Browns Beach.....guy decided to drive from the parking lot down the beach and onto the ice and went through maybe 15 - 20 ft off shore. Series of cones marking off the area frozen the ground. Also said trucks were on the lake going from Browns to Snake Hill up until that point but he hasn't seen a truck since.
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Is that where the big blue giant tarp is right now off of browns?
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Is that where the big blue giant tarp is right now off of browns?
If your standing in the parking lot facing the lake....right hand side directly in front of the beach portion of Browns....they decided to just drive over the beach and onto the lake and then took the polar plunge. Driving out from the beach.....I was told there is a spring or a culvert in that area and he got too close to it.
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Does anyone know if there is public access on the western side of the lake ? Thanks for the input.
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Does anyone know if there is public access on the western side of the lake ? Thanks for the input.
I do not believe there is. You have browns beach to the south but no public access on the western side of that lower basin. The only access on that side of the lake would be on the northern end at the beginning of fish creek. That would be waterfront park off Crescent st.
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Just a general walleye bait question. Has anyone had success catching them consistently with small suckers? Are you generally doing better with fatheads or md shiners?
Small suckers work well on bottom.They swim right to the bottom and won`t mess up your leader. Even small walleye can eat them. :tipup:
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I've never fished the western side of the lower basin. I normally stick to the eastern side. That said I have thought of taking the wheeler off at browns and shooting across to the west. Never been that far on that lake on the ice. Is there anything I should know? Pressure cracks, bad ice, etc in the middle of the lake?
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I've never fished the western side of the lower basin. I normally stick to the eastern side. That said I have thought of taking the wheeler off at browns and shooting across to the west. Never been that far on that lake on the ice. Is there anything I should know? Pressure cracks, bad ice, etc in the middle of the lake?
Middle of the lake off browns looked ok. As u get on the west side I saw some spring pockets bubble up and had open water pockets.
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I had the same experience. I was on the lake a few days a go and found a hole of open water about 10 feet in diameter. It was south of where kaydeross enters, but north of mannings cove. Along the drop off on the western side.
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Results from the tournament last weekend if anyone is interested. Fishing was incredibly tough, congrats to anyone who caught fish let alone let alone the winners;
(https://i.postimg.cc/9zjhGYRk/Screenshot-20210222-123920-Yahoo-Mail.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/9zjhGYRk)
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I've never fished the western side of the lower basin. I normally stick to the eastern side. That said I have thought of taking the wheeler off at browns and shooting across to the west. Never been that far on that lake on the ice. Is there anything I should know? Pressure cracks, bad ice, etc in the middle of the lake?
A lot of springs over on the west side (really bad by the Kay but there are some around Riley's cove and that area as well). They are in the same places every year. Just be careful.
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Hey guys...any springs or gas holes on the way from browns to snake hill? Thanks
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Hey guys...any springs or gas holes on the way from browns to snake hill? Thanks
The lake was in great shape last weekend. I had 14" in my holes and trucks were driving in several different areas of the lake- the specific area your asking about was littered with shanties, no major concerns that I know of. After this warm up I think conditions are likely to change pretty quickly and daily.
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Be nice to get a cold snap after all this junk melts. Can't bear the thought of having another early ice-out
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Anyone have an idea of how the lake is in response to the weather the last few days??
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Anyone have an idea of how the lake is in response to the weather the last few days??
Lake is fine. This weather has had no effect besides melting snow. We had 13" on Monday. Most years ice out is April. I'm sure near some run offs or springs may be different but overall lake is solid
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Thanks for the reply. :)
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Two Questions:
How is the access by Fitch after the warmer weather? I want to go and try for one last trip tomorrow.
Also, the past couple of times I have tried to locate some specific spots on Saratoga the actual depth and the depth on my navionics map have been drastically different. Am I in the wrong spot or is the lake just really low compared to the maps?
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Two Questions:
How is the access by Fitch after the warmer weather? I want to go and try for one last trip tomorrow.
Also, the past couple of times I have tried to locate some specific spots on Saratoga the actual depth and the depth on my navionics map have been drastically different. Am I in the wrong spot or is the lake just really low compared to the maps?
Navionucs for toga isn't even close to accurate. Especially for area off fitch
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Well.... that sucks. Any idea if it’s just the depths or the contours as well?
Drive by today. One guy spudding his way out to from Fitch.
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Well.... that sucks. Any idea if it’s just the depths or the contours as well?
Drive by today. One guy spudding his way out to from Fitch.
. We were fishing 8' other day and according to navionics said we were in 12'+. Its basically a flat w some humps. Flasher gives best idea of what's what. I really don't see this current/past weather effecting ice locally besides some puddles on lakes. The river in stillwater is still locked solid in most parts. Has been some days in 40s but thats not that warm. Nights have below freezing and forecasted well below freezing this week. When the puddles dissappear and ice turns bluish then its close to over. I am NOT saying dont use caution but we fished week ago and guys were driving on it (never recommend it though) . I still have snow in my yard and I live 5 miles from lake. Next week calling for 50s. That will probably start to wear down some ice. Also the run offs will be picking up from snow melt making ice block rise. Usually early ice out is mid March and late ice out 1st week of April.
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Where do you park to access Fitch Rd.? I know I used to park along the road but the last few times I've driven by I haven't noticed anyone parked along Fitch. I really dont feel comfortable parking on the ice. Thanks for any info.
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I have parked along the side of Fitch 4 times this winter. There was a long line of vehicle parked each time I was there. That was before people were parking on the ice though and when a lot of other lakes were not being fished yet.
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. We were fishing 8' other day and according to navionics said we were in 12'+. Its basically a flat w some humps. Flasher gives best idea of what's what. I really don't see this current/past weather effecting ice locally besides some puddles on lakes. The river in stillwater is still locked solid in most parts. Has been some days in 40s but thats not that warm. Nights have below freezing and forecasted well below freezing this week. When the puddles dissappear and ice turns bluish then its close to over. I am NOT saying dont use caution but we fished week ago and guys were driving on it (never recommend it though) . I still have snow in my yard and I live 5 miles from lake. Next week calling for 50s. That will probably start to wear down some ice. Also the run offs will be picking up from snow melt making ice block rise. Usually early ice out is mid March and late ice out 1st week of April.
Found mine about 4 ft off at snake hill also. Thought maybe lake dropped?
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Fished off of Fitch today in about 15 FOW. Managed 3 perch in 2 hours. Shanty stayed up in the wind which was a positive.
Ice was slick! All the junk melted off and the top froze after yesterday.
Ice was in good shape. 3 inches of white and about 14 inches of black.
Looks like a huge pressure crack on the eastern side of the lake as you drive up 9P.
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Think we still will have this weekend on Saratoga lake
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Think we still will have this weekend on Saratoga lake
Nope that 14” of Ice will be gone with the high of 40 for one day
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Nope that 14” of Ice will be gone with the high of 40 for one day
Little bit of sarcasm....
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Nope that 14” of Ice will be gone with the high of 40 for one day
Lol lol. Beat me to it.. Do people even read anymore? Several reports of ice thickness as recently as yesteday and I even said when ice out usually is. Its been well below freezing at night. Single digits actually. 40s not that warm. Cmon people
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Guess I better put the cover back on the boat. Who knew....
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I knew I stepped in the pile of sarcasm soon as I hit send. ;D.
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best way to find out is load the truck up and take a ride If ya can't fish' call it a season and go get a good breakfast Just sayin, thats what I do
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I knew I stepped in the pile of sarcasm soon as I hit send. ;D.
You’ll be good to go Jack, catch em up
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How’s the walking conditions?
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Don't forget the creepers as the ice is bare and uneven making the walking treacherous to say the least. Good luck.
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Anyone know where that women fell through earlier this week?
https://wnyt.com/saratoga-county-ny-news/rescue-saratoga-lake/6028355/?fbclid=IwAR01uZB1Em0uTsuXy8YBpBQDOH4OA0_Ed7VLpmOK4htbtsPZY4H6smhbnag
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Somewhere near the mouth of the Kaydeross. There's lots of gas holes between the Kaydeross and the Condo Complex, and the ice gets fuinky around the mouth of the Kaydeross this time of year.
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Skim ice on the south end of the lake this morning. We're getting close. I won't be fishing for a while, hip replaced a week ago.
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Yeah could see it on the webcam today. Wind stays down we will be walking out there soon
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Well need to start again. What little ice that formed is now gone. Warmer sunny day today and the wind, busted it all up
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checked saratoga today no ice north end south end locked up thin ice fish creek locked up from state launch to down stream won't be long
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Thanks for the info! Yeah the long range forecast is looking good. Hopefully we don’t get pummeled with snow Friday.
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Three brave souls out today, one in Fish Creek, one off Fitch, and one between Brown's and Snake Hill. There's lots of open water still.
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There was a lot of open water last Friday, like 90% of the lake. While yes it has gotten cold but hasn't been long enough. I get it that people are itching to get out myself included. No fish is worth a dip or even worse. Be careful out there fellas!
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Shes gotta be getting close now fellas
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Saw a couple of guys out in front of waterfront park yesterday with a shanty. Any idea on how much ice is out there right now?
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Went around lake yesterday a few guys off Fitch and state lunch southern side of lake looked rough lots of open water and lots of pockets of open water walked off browns and had 2 in 30 yards out in 4 ft of water and did not go any further think another solid week for off browns
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Passed the lake Sunday the 9th maybe most of the lake was wind blown and open econ officer told me he seen one guy out in the morning n he was waiting around for a call to save him, haven’t had eyes on the lake in a few days cold week but he safe this weekend if fishing
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any update on Saratoga lake?
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drove by 1/2 doz people out at browns, few up on fish creek, looked like some in mannings cove, there is a saratoga/round lake post on conditions page with more info https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=13732.30 if that helps
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Saratoga is fishable. Few dozen people out yesterday before the storm. Only 5 groups were brave enough to Cora’s the huge pressure crack about 500 yards out or so.
Fishing was slow on tip ups and jigginfg
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Any ice thickness reports from this past weekend? Thanks :tipup:
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5-6” off Browns yesterday. Pressure cracks everywhere.
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My friends went out on Saturday had 5-6 inches walked out to the left it started to get sketchy with spotty ice 2 inches in some spots. Becareful! Do not trust ice reports 100 percent. Always spud!
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Went out on the lake tonight and the wind was horrible! I bought a brand new Outsunny popup, and that thing blew all over the place. It’s on the cheap side, so I should’ve known it would just fold and blow over >:( . I saw other people fishing just fine. You think it’s my cheap pop up? Or is there something else I’m missing?
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Went out on the lake tonight and the wind was horrible! I bought a brand new Outsunny popup, and that thing blew all over the place. It’s on the cheap side, so I should’ve known it would just fold and blow over >:( . I saw other people fishing just fine. You think it’s my cheap pop up? Or is there something else I’m missing?
outsunny? never heard of this brand is it meant for ice? does it have anchors?
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outsunny? never heard of this brand is it meant for ice? does it have anchors?
Anchors are a must regardless of the make and model of your pop up in high winds. I actually bought more anchors so that I can anchor all four corners on the bottom and each side outside in high winds. Last thing you need is the shanty to blow over a heater
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yes, it has anchors and it is meant for the ice. I don’t think I anchored them down all the way, so some air was able to get underneath and lift that thing. Fortunately, I “saw it coming”, and the pulled the heater out RIGHT before things got real. Scary experience on a new lake for me. I’ll be back in the daylight next time haha
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If you fished off Browns beach there was a higher pressure crack Saturday 400-500 yards out (didn’t measure). Snow probably has it covered. Only a handful of guys decided to cross it Saturday.
Which is why it’s important to spud even when the lake is snow covered. Can’t see pressure cracks
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Anyone have any idea why navionics is so bad for Saratoga Lake?
Every time I go out and try to find a spot that looks interesting it seems totally off.
I don’t mind putting the time in it just gets a little frustrating after a while.
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Anyone have any idea why navionics is so bad for Saratoga Lake?
Every time I go out and try to find a spot that looks interesting it seems totally off.
I don’t mind putting the time in it just gets a little frustrating after a while.
I use I-boating for toga. Decent map for free app.
(https://i.postimg.cc/zLmWpjSH/DF9-E9-C2-B-6-ACF-4-F5-C-8-EA8-8606-DC2-B7-D18.png) (https://postimg.cc/zLmWpjSH)
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Anyone have any idea why navionics is so bad for Saratoga Lake?
Every time I go out and try to find a spot that looks interesting it seems totally off.
I don’t mind putting the time in it just gets a little frustrating after a while.
Much of Navionics is taken from early 1900's lake surveys, if the waterway was not used in the past few decades for commercial purposes they seemingly have not redone any bathymetric mapping so you get terrible data. Like the shoal in the Schroon lake lower basin that is 1/2 mile off, the sand bar near the narrows that cuts out into the lake that's not on the map, the island on Eagle that doesn't exist. The list goes on for many NY waters. Unless there is enough demand (Lake George, Champlain, Hudson River south of Albany or a more commercial purpose. You can see that Navionics is using the NYS maps that DEC has posted. I do not know about C-Maps or Lakemaster I haven't seen them to know if they are any better. I would pay for maps if they existed, like the how "Lake of the Woods" in Minnesota you can buy a card with accurate 1' contours. Guess there is not that much interest in NY.
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For the pressure crack about 300 yards from the southern point of Snake Hill it's crossable on the Eastern side of the lake, the middle is like a 1-3' tall ice fence (didn't check the west side) If you follow the snowmachine/4wheeler tracks they will take you to places you can easily pass through, ice had to be over 6" I gave it a good go with a spud in a few places didn't punch through so it was good enough for me.
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Evening guys,
I was fishing on Fish Creek this afternoon and my spud bar must have fallen off my sled while towing it. I was straight out from Lee’s Trailer Park. I’m hoping one of the guys that was also out there today saw it and grabbed it off the ice and is also a member of this forum. It’s a red Eskimo spud bar with a green paracord wrist loop (the wrist loop is handmade so it’s pretty easy for me to identify).
Thanks for any help and stay safe!!
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Drove by Fitch after work today and saw a truck out and another parked on the shoreline. Guess there is plenty of ice there to get on. Helps with the parking situation on Fitch rd
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Dose any one know the ice condition browns beach and snake hill area?
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Dose any one know the ice condition browns beach and snake hill area?
7 to 8 on safe side couple of ridges out to left of browns
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To the ice fisherman talking about his Navinonics. This does not affect your Naviononics but the lake depth is lowered by 3' to 4' every fall as they Assoc removes the "splash boards" from the dam near Grangerville to help with flooding.
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Totally disagree
Some areas are close but others are very dofferent. It has to to do with the low amount of data points for the Saratoga map navitronics used along with the software that extrapulate those data points. Lake Champlain sucks too
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Anyone been pulling many perch out of toga this past week?
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My son and I did an overnight on Monday into Tuesday and pulled a couple of big perch and walleyes north of Stoney Point across from Snake Hill. Perch this year seem to be good sized 10-13".
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*LOST GEAR*
If anyone finds my clam livewell bag with these 2 fatties in it, I would love to get the back bag, enjoy the fish!
(https://i.postimg.cc/qhrxgr3H/20220219-144152.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/qhrxgr3H)
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*LOST GEAR*
If anyone finds my clam livewell bag with these 2 fatties in it, I would love to get the back bag, enjoy the fish!
(https://i.postimg.cc/qhrxgr3H/20220219-144152.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/qhrxgr3H)
Reel nice eye you caught there. Hopefully it ended up in someone’s belly!
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FOUND: Nice rod case with several rods in it at the South end of Saratoga, not too far from Brown's. (The wind blew my bucket away too, but I found it, with the microspikes still in it.) PM me a description, then come and get it.
Buz
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FOUND: Nice rod case with several rods in it at the South end of Saratoga, not too far from Brown's. (The wind blew my bucket away too, but I found it, with the microspikes still in it.) PM me a description, then come and get it.
Buz
Owner found. Apparently he was not on Iceshanty, but did respond to a FB post.
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Well done!
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You are a good man Charlie Brown!
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Want to try the west side of the lake between Stoney Point and Mannings Cove. I have heard there are dangerous springs in that area. Any safety information more than appreciated.
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I wish I could help but I’m not familiar with the west side. Too shallow for my likings
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There were some whicked crackes opened up about a month back. Bad enough to make me turn around with 4x4 Since then they have froze over and reopened a couple times. Extreme caution is recomended on the south end The day of the D U tournament somebody got wet. Nobody hurt but a spoiled day for sure. With the snow blowing around a bad spot can be hidden Be careful North end is great