%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2Fdc824fd3-6e52-47d0-a707-d8b9c5a011f4%2Fimages%2F038bb039-3ef0-488e-b660-6a701e6fac6b.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Expert-Guided Ice Fishing in Saranac | Battle Fish
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Tupper Lake, NY, USA
- $80 - $1,100 price range
- Updated Date: November 23, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2Fdc824fd3-6e52-47d0-a707-d8b9c5a011f4%2Fratecard%2Fcbe23cc2-2af9-437b-a6e6-5593c537c013.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Winter Catches on Ice
Calm morning fishing on the misty lake.
Beautiful Largemouth Bass catch from the kayak.
Happy young angler with a colorful Yellow Perch catch.
Proud young angler with a nice Bass catch from the kayak.
null
Colorful Rainbow Trout catch on the lake.
Impressive Northern Pike catch from the kayak.
Strong Smallmouth Bass catch on the lake.
Fun group catch of Smallmouth Bass on the river.
Peaceful morning kayaking on the misty lake.
Calm morning fishing on the misty lake.
Beautiful Largemouth Bass catch from the kayak.
Happy young angler with a colorful Yellow Perch catch.
Proud young angler with a nice Bass catch from the kayak.
null
Colorful Rainbow Trout catch on the lake.
Impressive Northern Pike catch from the kayak.
Strong Smallmouth Bass catch on the lake.
Fun group catch of Smallmouth Bass on the river.
Peaceful morning kayaking on the misty lake.
Calm morning fishing on the misty lake.
Beautiful Largemouth Bass catch from the kayak.
Happy young angler with a colorful Yellow Perch catch.
Proud young angler with a nice Bass catch from the kayak.
Ice Fishing Adventure on Saranac Lake
Ready to try your hand at some serious winter angling? Guide Andrew Beaudoin's half-day ice fishing trip on Saranac Lake is the perfect way to experience the thrill of catching fish through the ice. This 4-hour adventure takes you onto the frozen waters of one of the Adirondacks' most beautiful lakes, where you'll target a variety of prized game fish including trout, pike, and walleye. Whether you're a seasoned ice angler or it's your first time on the hard water, Andrew's expertise and top-notch gear will set you up for success.
What to Expect on the Ice
Your ice fishing journey begins at Lake Flower Avenue, where you'll meet up with Guide Andrew Beaudoin. From there, you'll head out onto the frozen expanse of Saranac Lake. Andrew will select prime fishing spots based on current conditions and fish activity. You'll learn how to set up ice fishing shelters, drill holes, and use specialized gear like tip-ups and jigging rods. The trip runs from late November through March, when the ice is thick enough for safe fishing. Dress warm and be prepared for a true Adirondack winter experience – the scenery alone is worth the trip, with snow-capped mountains surrounding the lake.
Techniques on the Hard Water
Ice fishing is a whole different ball game compared to open water angling. You'll get hands-on experience with various ice fishing techniques. For trout and walleye, you might use jigging rods with small lures or live bait. Northern pike are often targeted with tip-ups, which allow you to fish multiple holes at once. Andrew will show you how to read your fish finder, interpret the underwater landscape, and adjust your presentation based on the fish's behavior. You'll also learn about ice safety, how to gauge ice thickness, and the importance of proper gear like ice cleats and floatation suits. It's not just about dropping a line through a hole – there's a real art and science to ice fishing that you'll start to master on this trip.
Customer Stories
"Fantastic ice fishing trip with AJ and his team! Our group of 6 adults had a blast and greatly appreciated his knowledge, equipment setup, and patience with our new anglers!" - Fletcher
"Great day of ice fishing. First time for the three of us. Very glad the ice and cold weather held out for us to get up there!!" - Richard
Species You'll Want to Hook
Brown Trout: These wily fish are a favorite among Saranac Lake anglers. In winter, they often cruise just under the ice in search of baitfish. Brown trout in Saranac can reach impressive sizes, with fish over 5 pounds not uncommon. They're known for their hard fights and tasty flesh. Jigging small minnow imitations or live bait near underwater structure is often the ticket to hooking into one of these beauties.
Lake Trout: Also known as "lakers," these deep-water predators are the true giants of Saranac Lake. They can grow to over 20 pounds and put up an incredible fight on ice fishing gear. Lake trout typically hang out in deeper water, so you'll often be fishing for them in 30-60 feet of water. Large jigging spoons or live bait on tip-ups are popular methods. The satisfaction of pulling a massive lake trout through the ice is hard to beat.
Rainbow Trout: These acrobatic fish are known for their spectacular jumps and colorful appearance. In Saranac Lake, rainbows are often found in shallower water compared to lake trout. They're active feeders even in cold water, making them a great target for ice anglers. Small jigs tipped with waxworms or salmon eggs are go-to baits. Landing a rainbow trout through the ice is a visual treat – their vibrant colors stand out beautifully against the white snow.
Northern Pike: If you're after a true predator, northern pike are your target. These toothy fish can grow large in Saranac Lake, with specimens over 40 inches possible. Pike are often found near weed edges or drop-offs. Large minnows or suckers on tip-ups are the classic way to target them, but jigging with large spoons can also be effective. The rush of seeing a flag pop up on a tip-up, then battling a big pike through the ice, is an experience you won't forget.
Walleye: Prized for both their fighting ability and their excellent table fare, walleye are a favorite target for many ice anglers on Saranac Lake. They tend to be most active during low light conditions, so early morning or late afternoon can be prime time. Walleye often hang out near the bottom, so precise depth control is key. Jigging with minnows or soft plastics is a popular technique. The distinctive white tip on a walleye's tail is a welcome sight as it comes up through the ice hole.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
What sets this Saranac Lake ice fishing trip apart is the combination of expert guidance, prime fishing grounds, and the sheer variety of species you can target. Guide Andrew Beaudoin knows these waters like the back of his hand and can put you on fish even when conditions are tough. The trip is fully outfitted with high-quality gear, so you don't need to invest in expensive equipment to give ice fishing a try. Whether you're a solo angler looking to learn new techniques or part of a larger group (up to 40 people can be accommodated), this trip offers a customized experience. The Adirondack backdrop adds a layer of natural beauty that makes even a slow fishing day memorable. Plus, the chance to catch multiple species of trout, along with pike and walleye, all in one trip, is a draw that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching to get out on the ice and experience the unique thrill of ice fishing, this Saranac Lake trip is calling your name. With expert guidance, top-notch gear, and a range of exciting fish species to target, it's the perfect way to make the most of the winter fishing season. Remember, you'll need a valid New York State fishing license, but everything else is provided. Whether you're looking to learn the ropes of ice fishing or hoping to land that trophy lake trout, this trip offers something for everyone. Don't let winter keep you indoors – book your spot with Battle Fish Charters and discover why ice fishing on Saranac Lake is a bucket-list experience for anglers in the know. The ice is waiting, and the fish are biting – what are you waiting for?
Customer Reviews
Ice Fishing Thrill
Fletcher Dix
January 19, 2025
Frosty First Catch
Great day of ice fishing. First time for the three of us. Very glad the ice and cold weather held out for us to get up there!!
Richard Stvan
March 31, 2024
Learn more about the species
Brown Trout
Brown trout in Saranac Lake are wily characters, typically ranging from 12-20 inches. They're not native, but they've made themselves right at home in our cool, clear waters. You'll often find browns tucked under cut banks or hanging around submerged logs. They're most active in low light, so early mornings or evenings are prime time. Fall is especially good when they get aggressive before spawning. Anglers love browns for their challenging nature and hard fights. These fish are cautious, so stealth is key. Try drifting nymphs or small streamers through likely holding spots. When you hook one, be ready for a strong, dogged fight. Here's a local secret: after a light rain, toss a big streamer near undercut banks. That's when the big browns often come out to play.
Lake Trout
Lake trout are the giants of Saranac, often topping 20-30 inches and 5-15 pounds. These deep-water dwellers prefer the coldest parts of the lake, usually hanging out near the bottom. Winter through early spring is prime time for lakers, especially for ice fishing. Anglers target them for their size and the thrill of battling a big fish from the depths. Jigging with large spoons or using live bait near the bottom is effective. When you hook one, be patient – it's a long way to the surface, and these fish fight hard all the way up. Big lake trout make for some fantastic eating too. Local tip: try jigging just off steep drop-offs. That's where lakers often cruise, looking for baitfish.
Northern Pike
Northern pike are the ambush predators of Saranac Lake, typically running 2-3 feet long and weighing 5-15 pounds. These toothy critters love to hang out in weedy areas or near submerged timber, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting prey. Spring and fall are prime pike seasons, but ice fishing for them is a blast too. Anglers target pike for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. Use sturdy tackle – these fish have razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through light line. Big spoons, inline spinners, or live bait under a bobber all work well. When you hook one, keep tension on the line and watch for sudden runs. Local tip: try casting near weed edges early in the morning or late evening. That's when pike are most active and likely to strike.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are a favorite here in Saranac, known for their beautiful coloration and acrobatic fights. They usually run 8-24 inches long and prefer cool, clear waters with plenty of cover. You'll often find them near riffles, pools, or undercut banks. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but we catch them year-round, even through the ice. Anglers love rainbows for their spirited fights and delicious, pink flesh. They'll hit a variety of lures and flies, but nymphs and small spinners are consistent producers. When you hook one, be ready for some aerial action – these guys love to leap. My go-to trick? Try drifting a small nymph under an indicator near submerged logs or rock piles. That's often where the big ones are hiding.
Walleye
Walleye are a prized catch here on Saranac Lake, typically running 15-30 inches and 2-8 pounds. These golden-olive fish with white bellies like to hang out near rocky or sandy bottoms, often in deeper water during the day. Come evening, they move to shallower areas to feed. Winter's a great time to target walleye through the ice, using jigging spoons or live minnows. Anglers love 'em for their tasty white flesh and the challenge of locating them. When you hook one, it's all about steady pressure - these guys are known for head shakes that can throw a hook. My local tip? Try fishing the hour before sunset near weed edges or drop-offs. That's prime walleye feeding time, and your chances of landing a big one go way up.
Fantastic ice fishing trip with AJ and his team! Our group of 6 adults had a blast and greatly appreciated his knowledge, equipment setup, and patience with our new anglers!