Winter’s stunning landscape offers so many opportunities, including ice fishing for those who can brave the cold. Gloves, hats, layered clothing and warm boots are part of the necessary garb. Those unfamiliar might ask why anyone would want to leave their cozy couch near a wood stove on a football TV weekend with a BURZEE forecast in the single digits. It’s hard to explain for those who have not experienced ice fishing. For those that have, this is a perfect weekend!

Ice fishing is more than about catching fish. Chautauqua Lake opens the door to sparkling snow and ice, snow-laden trees, the vastness of the frozen lake to a distance beyond where you can see, and the tranquility of the entire picturesque setting. The stillness and quiet of the natural world out on the ice is momentous. It offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of every other day in our world. Walking on water is spooky, startling, thrilling and such fun. Many anglers find peace and reflection after setting up and while waiting for a bite. Ice fishing can be a meditative experience; it’s special and unique.

From where you park your vehicle to the spot on the ice where you choose to drill a hole, there is an adventure in each step. It’s sort of a journey and sort of a gamble in one sense. You ask yourself, “How thick is this ice, is it safe?” So you go slow. If there are no footpath trails in the snow before you where someone else has accessed the ice, use a spud bar and be extra cautious — invite someone to join you to be extra safe. You will usually see others out there, and that’s part of the fun. Get near to them or stay far from them; the choice is yours. Most folks usually ask as they walk out, “How are you doing? Catch any?” Most folks will share what they know, especially a colorful joke.

On the ice, one of the most cherished aspects of ice fishing is the sense of community it fosters with nature and those who may be ice fishing with you. Whether fishing alone or with friends and family, a bond forms among those who share the ice.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Mason Plump healthy walleye are a common ice-fishing catch at Chautauqua Lake in the wintertime. Jigging lures tipped with a minnow are effective. Tungsten jigs tipped a wax worm, spike grub or Mousie grub work well for bluegill and perch.

Stories are exchanged, tips are shared, and laughter can echo from your fishing blind across the frozen expanse. There is a sense of camaraderie that transcends age and background, bringing nature and people together in their love for ice fishing.

As in many things in our modern world, modern ice fishing has seen a range of innovations that have enhanced the experience. From high-tech fish finders and underwater cameras to heated shelters and propane heaters, technology has made ice fishing more comfortable and accessible than ever before.

Jeff Mason decided to wait until a bit past dark Thursday to fish off the Bemus-Stow lakeshore. Dropping a jigging Rapala tipped with a minnow head, he used his Garmin Striker-4 sonar to watch a nice walleye rise up a few inches from the bottom to grab his gently jigged lure. A minute later, he said, “That walleye barely fit through the hole.” The anticipation of fresh walleye filets for dinner is part of the fun out there.

The advancements allow anglers to spend more time on the ice, increasing the chances of a successful catch while staying warm and safe. For many, ice fishing is a family tradition passed down through generations. Parents teach their children the art of ice fishing, sharing stories of past adventures and creating new memories together. The shared experiences and lessons learned on the ice strengthen family bonds and instill a love for the outdoors in younger generations, who also learn to respect nature. Carry it in, carry it out — leave no trace.

Responsible ice fishing involves respecting the environment and fish populations. Anglers are mindful of fishing regulations, catch limits, and sustainable practices, which will ensure that the sport can be enjoyed years into the future. Many are also advocates for conservation, understanding the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the frozen lakes and the ecosystems they support.

If you are hardy enough to stay until the end of the day, there is often a pleasant surprise. As the sun sets and the temperature drops, anglers begin to pack up their gear with an orange glow in the western sky. The success of the day and the near misses are recounted with pride and joking humor. The satisfaction of a day well spent, surrounded by nature and camaraderie, lingers long after the ice fishing trip has ended.

Yesterday, closer to the Mayville end of the lake, there was about 6 inches of snow on top of a small layer of slush with good ice of 4 to 6 inches beneath the snow and slush. Small to medium fat perch are the rule near Mayville, with some walleye in the mix. A tiny lead head jig or small Rapala tipped with a minnow piece works as well as any bait. Some anglers are catch and release all day, others are taking home their catch for a beer batter halftime treat for the Buffalo Bills game set for Sunday night.

It is easy to see that ice fishing is more than just a winter activity. It is an adventure that combines skill, patience, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. The joys of ice fishing lie in the thrill of the catch and the beauty of the landscape, the sense of community, and the cherished traditions with each trip. Whether you are an experienced angler or a newcomer, the frozen lakes offer a world of excitement and tranquility waiting to be explored.

To get out of the cold to a hot meal and restaurant atmosphere for a good cause in Dunkirk, the Lakeshore Longbeards chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is asking for your support in conservation and support for youth outdoors. The 26th annual Conservation and Hunting Heritage Banquet Event, open to the public, is set for today at the Blessed Mary Angela Parish Center, 324 Townsend St. in Dunkirk. This annual fundraiser supports Jake’s Day, which is held at the Westfield Fish and Game Club annually. Local support at this event is crucial to the Longbeards’ mission. It allows them to purchase insurance and supplies to conduct the event where dozens of youths are introduced to firearm safety, fly tying, fishing, flora and fauna; they build bluebird houses, can sign up for turkey hunting, trap shooting and more. These lessons are conducted through individual learning stations set up at the club. A single ticket for the fundraiser is $50 and includes dinner and membership, and a couple’s ticket for two is $85. The banquet event will feature gun raffles, auctions and fun stuff for all ages. Call Bob Turk at 716-680-3715 or Scott Dibble at 716-673-6703 to purchase tickets.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Jan. 18: NWTF Lakeshore Longbeards 26th annual Conservation and Hunting Heritage event, 5 p.m. start, Blessed Mary Angela Parish Center, 324 Townsend St., Dunkirk. Call for tickets: 716-680-3715 04 716-673-6703.

Jan. 21: Erie County Fish Advisory Board, monthly meeting, 7 p.m., Bison City Rod and Gun, 510 Ohio St., Buffalo, open to the public.

Feb. 1-2: NY Musky EXPO, Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, 10 Dunham Ave., Celoron. Over 70 booths, live lure demo’s, lure swap night, more. Kids 12 and under are free. Info: 716-489-2800

NOTE: Send Calendar info or related outdoor news to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com.