McClory: ‘Ice-Out’ on Lake Winnipesaukee a hopeful sign

Yes, it took longer than usual this year, but I’m going out on a limb here by saying “finally, we can put winter behind us.” A sign of winter’s end took place on April 17 at 6:53 a.m. when “Ice-Out” was officially declared on Lake Winnipesaukee and spring arrived in New Hampshire. Ice-Out on Lake Winnipesaukee occurs when the ice that has covered the lake since late December or early January melts enough to allow the M/S Mount Washington cruise ship to navigate between Alton Bay, Center Harbor, Weirs Beach, Meredith and Wolfeboro. For the avid fisherman, there is nothing like fishing for salmon just after the ice goes out. For the last three or four months, bodies of water were covered with snow and ice. During this time most of the available oxygen is depleted and any remaining oxygen will be found in the band of water just under the ice. As the ice melts, this stratified layer stays together until it warms up to the same temperature and mixes with the remaining lake water. Shortly after, the entire water column will naturally mix, resulting in a process called turnover. It usually takes one to two weeks to complete the process. Fish are usually found in this layer of water and are hungry, aggressive feeders until the turnover takes place. It can’t be matched and it’s a breathtaking, thrilling and productive time to be on the water.Fishing New England lakes in the spring can be very unpredictable. Within a week, there can be blustery winds, bone-chilling drizzle with sleet mixed in, or summer-like short-sleeve temperatures. When you are on the water for the day, dressing warmly in layers of clothing is a must. You can remove layers and be comfortable from sunrise through the warmth of mid-afternoon. Remember, a degree or two change in water temperature will affect game fish activity dramatically. Don’t forget to take the wind into account. It will often blow warmer surface water to the windward shore and create a pool of warmer water that will attract baitfish and subsequent game fish. Water will also be warmer near river inlets where fish like staging in moving water. Most importantly, as the day progresses, go deeper, especially if you are fishing for salmon or trout. They are noted to be light sensitive and will seek a comfort zone that is often in cooler water. This will often slow a fish’s metabolism and their need to forage. I hope this information helps you land a trophy on your first outing of the season. Good luck!I’m pretty sure that by the time you read this, I will more than likely be trolling Harry’s favorite Meredith Special at three colors in Winni. I’ll have a full report next time.Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 27, because it’s the traditional opening day fishing tournament at Sluice Pond sponsored by the Lynn Fish and Game Protective Association. All activities will take place, rain or shine, and are free of charge and open to anyone. Starting at 8 a.m. and continuing until noon, prizes will be awarded for the largest trout to fishermen in the following categories: adult male, adult female, boy and girl each from ages 8 to 14, and peewee boy and girl each age 7 and younger. There will also be a $25 Ippi’s gift card awarded for the largest salmon. Incidentally, Ippi’s Bait and Tackle on Parkland. Ave will have extended hours for your last-minute tournament angling needs and they are stocked up and ready to provide you with all the right bait and tackle to make sure your next outing is a successful one, especially at Sluice. The weigh station will be set up at the Sluice Pond boat ramp and all fish must be registered before noon.The Lynn Club also sponsors a “Super Trout” tournament that starts on April 27 and runs until Oct. 31. The prizes are for caught tagged fish, 1 at $300, 2 at $100 and 5 at $50. The cost to enter this event is $10 for junior ages 2-14, $15 for adult ages 15-64, or senior 65 and up $10. You can register the morning of the event from 7:30 a.m. until 8 a.m. or at Ippi’s and R+R Am