A recent winter fishing excursion in upstate New York delivered an unforgettable experience for two avid anglers, Jim Logan and Shannon Tierney-Addis, guided by local expert Ryan Lorensen. Over three days, the group navigated freezing temperatures and snowy conditions to achieve remarkable catches, highlighted by a rare tiger muskie pulled from beneath the ice and a successful steelhead trout expedition.
Their journey commenced with a day of ice fishing that saw them landing panfish, largemouth bass, and pike. Jim Logan distinguished himself early by catching a substantial 5-pound largemouth bass, an impressive feat for the Jefferson County region near the Canadian border. The group practiced a catch-and-release policy for most fish, retaining only some panfish for consumption, as confirmed by guide Lorensen, who noted the challenging frigid temperatures and heavy snow.
The second day brought a shift in location to a different part of the lake, known for its larger fish. Despite brutal conditions—windy and 15 degrees below zero—the anglers sought warmth in an ice shanty while their tip-ups, baited with live shiners, were strategically spread out. The quiet was broken when a tip-up signaled a catch, sending Jim sprinting across the ice. Almost simultaneously, another tip-up closer to their shanty sprang into action, prompting Shannon to investigate.
Shannon’s tip-up reel was furiously unwinding, indicating a powerful fish. Upon setting the hook, she immediately sensed the immense struggle of a large creature. A 10-minute battle ensued, during which the fish repeatedly tested her resolve, making strong runs against the small reel. As the fish neared the ice hole, Lorensen identified it as a muskie. A sudden surge of energy from the muskie caused it to become entangled in the line. Miraculously, after another struggle, the fish freed itself. Lorensen skillfully maneuvered its head through the 8-inch hole and onto the ice, revealing a magnificent 41-inch tiger muskie, estimated to weigh between 16 and 17 pounds. After a quick measurement and photographs, the prize catch was safely returned to the water.
The final day transitioned to steelhead fishing on the Salmon River near Altmar, New York. Despite the persistent cold and snow, the trio achieved great success using backtrolling and float fishing techniques from Lorensen’s boat. They successfully landed five steelhead, with the largest measuring an impressive 32, 31, and 28 inches, respectively. Guide Lorensen, with six years of full-time guiding experience, expressed immense satisfaction with the trip’s outcome. While the anglers opted against replica mounts, they accumulated numerous photographs documenting their memorable winter catches. Jim Logan is reportedly planning a swift return for more steelhead action.
This winter fishing trip showcased the thrill and challenges of angling in extreme cold, culminating in significant catches for both Jim Logan and Shannon Tierney-Addis under the expert guidance of Ryan Lorensen. The expedition not only yielded impressive fish, including a rare tiger muskie and several large steelhead, but also provided lasting memories and remarkable photographic documentation of their achievements in the icy wilderness of upstate New York.