One of the mildest winters in memory has already led to ice-free conditions on expansive portions of New Hampshire’s large lakes (e.g. Winnipesaukee), which will allow for abundant angling opportunities come April 1, the start of open-water fishing on lakes managed for landlocked salmon, lake trout, and rainbow trout. The traditional “watching and waiting” period for available open water to slip in the first small trolling craft – typically 2-3 weeks after the official opener – will certainly not be the case this year!

Although vast amounts of open water are already present on most large lakes this mid-March, it is imperative anglers keep in mind landlocked salmon/lake trout managed lakes are closed to all open water fishing until April 1, regardless of the species targeted. Only ice fishing (as ice permits) is allowed from the period January 1-March 31. However, keep in mind numerous general regulation water bodies are open to fishing by all legal methods year-round, as well as, currently, streams/rivers which reopened January 1. (See the N.H. Freshwater Fishing Digest for further information).

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