Yes, it’s cold. Yes, the snowfall has been impressive, borderline ridiculous. But why not? What a start to winter 2026! Brrr. The moment a flag pops or a rod tip dances, the cold disappears. Blood rushes back into fingers and toes, cheeks flush, and suddenly nobody remembers who said, “You’re crazy for going out in this.” This isn’t crazy. This is fun. Let’s get this right.

Western New York offers a smorgasbord of hardwater opportunities. Chautauqua Lake is the headline act, drawing anglers chasing walleye and oversized white bass. Findley Lake and the Cassadaga Lakes shine for crappie action, while Cattaraugus County waters like New Albion and Case Lakes are reliable spots for panfish and crappie slabs. Silver Lake in Wyoming County is a favorite for northern pike and perch, and Cuba Lake in Allegany County rounds things out with solid perch and pike fishing. In short, if there’s safe ice, there’s probably someone drilling holes and smiling.

Ice fishing today isn’t what it used to be and that’s a good thing. Electric-powered ice augers chew through 10 inches of ice in seconds, saving shoulders and time. High-tech huts with insulated walls, LED lights, and heaters make conditions downright comfortable. Some even have cushioned seats, which feels suspiciously luxurious for something called “roughing it.”

As for tactics, simplicity still wins. Modern jig heads made from high-tech materials provide quick sink rate, extra flash, vibration, and they’re typically tipped with a lively minnow or a soft plastic grub. Drop your bait to the bottom, lift it a foot or two, and jig with small, deliberate motions. Walleyes often prefer subtle presentations, while crappie and perch may respond to a little more action. If nothing bites after 20 minutes, drill another hole. Ice fishing is part fishing, part real estate scouting.

Most folks only regret not going ice fishing when they can, after that first TV show ends and the next show starts. Life is short, no matter your age. Get ice fishing if you can! Photo by Jim Drozdowski Jr.

Staying warm is an art form. Dress in layers. Start with moisture-wicking base layers and finish with windproof outerwear. Cotton is the enemy. Leave it at home. Insulated, waterproof boots are non-negotiable, and extra socks can save a day when snow finds its way inside. Good gloves matter, but bring a second pair because wet gloves are basically ice cubes with fingers.

A portable shelter blocks wind, which is half the battle, and a small heater (used responsibly) turns survival into comfort. Hand warmers tucked into pockets are worth their weight in gold. And don’t forget calories, snacks and hot drinks help keep the internal furnace running. Coffee never tasted better than it does at five degrees below “Are you kidding me?” No.

Ice safety is no joke. Always check ice thickness as you go; four inches for foot traffic is a common guideline, but more is better.

Wear ice cleats for traction and carry ice picks around your neck so you can pull yourself out if the unthinkable happens. A few more days and nothing will be less than 10. Fish with a buddy whenever possible, let someone know your plans, and avoid areas with current, inlets, or pressure cracks. Respect the ice, respect the weather, and know when to call it a day. No fish is worth risking your safety, even a really big one (though we know that’s debatable).

For non-anglers shaking their heads, just remember: while you’re watching snow pile up or sitting taut in that lounge chair watching TV, others are laughing inside warm huts, waiting for that sudden tug, catching fish. In Western New York, winter doesn’t slow us down, it freezes up to provide us a playground. And when that line goes tight, the cold disappears, the smiles get wide, and the only thing anyone’s thinking is: Who said cold?

Gotta love the outdoors!

Outdoors Calendar

Jan. 27: Children in the Stream, Youth Fly Fishing program, free, Costello Room, Rockefeller Art Center, SUNY Fredonia, 7-8:30 p.m., 12 yrs old and older, info: 716-410-7003 (Alberto Rey).

Jan. 31-Feb. 1: NY Musky Expo, Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, Celeron, small admission, kids under 12 are free, Info: Katia Rivers, 585-668-2550.

Feb. 1: Lakewood Rod and Gun Club, Winterfest Banquet & Drawing, dinner – 3 p.m., Music by “Ion Sky” 2-6 p.m. Info: 716-763-3955

Feb. 7: Lakeshore Long-beards NWTF Banquet, White Inn, 5 p.m. doors open, 6:30 p.m. dinner, live auction, raffles, annual youth event fund-raiser; Info: Robert Turk, 716-673-6703; https://events.nwtf.org/EVT-20816.

Feb. 14: WNY Walleye Fisherman’s Flea Market, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Knights of Columbus, 36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg; Info: Chris Kempf, 716-400-9258; Jim Plinzke, 716-861-8817.

Feb. 14-15: NYS Free Fishing Days

Feb. 19-22: Greater Niagara Fishing Expo, Niagara Falls. Visit www.niagarafishingexpo.com for info.