Learn how to get a New York State fishing license, costs for residents and non-residents, freshwater rules, and exemptions for Upstate NY anglers.

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Discover the best things to do in Upstate New York, including Watertown attractions, family activities, dining, and outdoor adventures near Fort Drum.

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What an awesome weekend! We had a blast hanging out with everyone who came out to the event. Saturday was slow fishing but everyone got to learn the ropes to ice fishing. Sunday was luckily much more productive fishing and these kids were hammering them! Highlight of the weekend was the monster pike right at the end of the day! Congrats to Isabella and her father for landing such an incredible Northern Pike

A Northern Pike being caught while fishing in NY

Upstate New York Fishing Report

Read expert Fishing Activity articles, travel insights, and local stories from Battle Fish Black River LLC in Upstate New York. Stay informed and inspired for your next adventure.

Upstate New York Fishing Activity Articles & Insights | Battle Fish Black River LLC

Battle Fish Black River LLC is a veteran-owned guided ice fishing service serving the Fort Drum Area and the North Country NY. Led by Army veterans Matthew Rothery and Edwin “Win” Anderson, we specialize in private ice fishing trips Upstate New York (Serving the Fort Drum Area) for beginners, families, and military personnel looking for a safe, educational, and memorable outdoor experience. Our guided trips cover the best waters in Jefferson County NY and surrounding areas, including remote lakes and honeyholes only known to local anglers. Guests can expect a fort drum area ice fishing guide who provides all gear, including rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and ice shelters. Safety is our top priority: we follow strict ice thickness standards, provide flotation equipment, and make weather-based decisions to ensure every trip is secure and enjoyable. Battle Fish Black River offers a variety of species-targeted adventures, including northern pike, tiger musky, lake trout, walleye and salmon, perch, and crappie. Each ice fishing trip near Fort Drum is private, allowing groups of up to 20 people to enjoy a tailored experience. Whether you are a first-time angler or an experienced fisherman, our team ensures a beginner-friendly and family-friendly ice fishing experience that emphasizes fun, learning, and connection with the outdoors. While our focus is currently on guided ice fishing Upstate NY, we also offer kayak fishing near Fort Drum NY during the summer months. Our seasonal kayak trips are designed to expand your fishing adventures, and all trips remain private and guided by expert instructors. At Battle Fish Black River, our mission is to introduce our community—including active duty service members, veterans, and local families—to the incredible fisheries of North Country NY. With years of combined experience, tournament expertise, and a passion for teaching, we provide unmatched access to ice fishing charters Upstate New York, private ice fishing trips Upstate New York, and safe, fun, and educational angling adventures. Ready to experience the best guided ice fishing near Fort Drum, NY? Contact Battle Fish Black River today to book your private, beginner-friendly trip and start making memories on the ice!

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Battle Fish Black River is a Veteran owned and operated guide service operating in the Ft. Drum, Thousand Islands and Saranac Lake areas of Upstate NY. We offer kayak and ice fishing adventures with an emphasis on families and people interested in actually learning fishing techniques and accessible locations.

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Largemouth bass caught while fishing in Evans Mills

Largemouth bass caught while fishing in NY

A Northern Pike caught while fishing in Evans Mills

A person fishing for a largemouth bass in an unknown location

Top Things to Do in Upstate New YorkUpstate New York is packed with outdoor adventure, rich history, family-friendly attractions, and great local food

New York State Fishing License Information.If you’re planning a guided fishing trip in Upstate New York, having the proper New York State fishing lice

What an awesome weekend! We had a blast hanging out with everyone who came out to the event. Saturday was slow fishing but everyone got to learn the r

Exciting Guided Ice Fishing Upstate New York!

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Private ice fishing trips near Fort Drum with all gear provided and beginner-friendly fun!

Hook, Reel, Repeat!

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Limited Upstate NY Fishing Season—Don’t Miss Out!

See What Anglers Are Reeling In!

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Battle Fish Black River LLC – Guided Fishing Upstate NY

Trips typically begin in the 5th week of January, depending on safe ice conditions.

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Matthew Rothery is an Army combat veteran with a lifelong passion for fishing. He is a licensed fishing guide and an accomplished kayak bass tournament angler, including earning the 2024 Slay Nation NY Championship and multiple top finishes over the years.Matthew has a strong passion for teaching and enjoys introducing people to fishing, ice fishing, and kayak fishing. He works well with beginners, families, and experienced anglers, and focuses on making each trip comfortable, productive, and enjoyable.

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Army Combat Veteran and retired Fort Drum pilot with a lifelong passion for the outdoors. A licensed fishing guide with over 30 years of fishing experience, I take pride in sharing knowledge, skill, and respect for the water with every client. When I’m not on the water, I’m a devoted family man—married with two kids—and at home with two cats and one dog.

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Veteran Guides, Local Knowledge, Trophy Fish Expertise

Top Guided Fishing Highlights in Upstate NY

Seasonal guided kayak and ice fishing trips for Pike, Musky, Lake Trout, Walleye, Salmon, Perch, and Crappie in the Fort Drum area.

Guided Ice & Kayak Fishing in Upstate New York

Frequently Asked Questions for fishing charters Upstate New York and Battle Fish Black River LLC

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Join top rated morning ice fishing trips on North Country lakes. Expert guides target peak feeding windows for productive lake fishing adventures.

Half Day Ice

Half Day Ice Fishing North Country Battle Fish Black River 

Join our veteran-owned guide service for afternoon lake ice fishing near Fort Drum. Book today!

Ice Fishing PM

Ice Fishing Fort Drum NY Battle Fish Black River

Premium kayak fishing on Upstate New York lakes. Morning and afternoon trips available. Book now!

Kayak Fish NY

Kayak Fishing Upstate NY Battle Fish Black River Lake

Join Battle Fish Black River for top-rated lake ice fishing near Fort Drum. Book your adventure.

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Guided Ice Fishing Upstate NY Battle Fish  Black River Lakes

Real Catches. Real Guests. Real Upstate NY Moments.

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Our fishing reports provide regular updates from the Upstate New York fishing scene, helping anglers understand current ice conditions, active species, and seasonal patterns near the Fort Drum area. These reports highlight what’s biting, where fish are being caught, and how conditions change throughout the season, offering valuable insight for anyone planning guided ice fishing trips in North Country NY. Whether you’re tracking perch movement or targeting trophy species, our reports help guests arrive informed and confident.

Latest Ice Fishing Reports from Upstate NY

Guest reviews share real experiences from anglers who’ve joined our guided fishing charters in Upstate New York, from first-time ice anglers to seasoned fishermen. These stories reflect private trips, friendly guidance, and successful days on the ice near Jefferson County NY. Reading reviews helps new guests understand what makes our trips beginner-friendly, family-focused, and trusted by locals and visitors looking for a reliable ice fishing guide near Fort Drum NY.

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From hidden honeyholes to North Country NY lakes near Fort Drum, Battle Fish Black River guides you to the most productive kayak and ice fishing locations Upstate New York has to offer

Explore Upstate NY’s Best Fishing Spots

Experience guided kayak and ice fishing Upstate NY targeting Northern Pike, Musky, Lake Trout, Walleye, Salmon, Perch, and Crappie. Prices: $120 Half-Day, $250 Full-Day for up to 20 anglers

Half-Day & Full-Day Kayak and Ice Fishing Trips

Customers like you loved their fishing experience with us! Check out what they had to say if you need a little more insight into what a trip with Battle Fish Black River LLC is like.

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Fish Species

For your private ice fishing adventure Upstate NY, dress in layers and bring warm, waterproof footwear to stay comfortable on the ice. Don’t forget snacks, bottled water, sunglasses, and sunscreen. These simple items will help you enjoy your guided ice fishing trip near Fort Drum to the fullest

What To Bring

All gear is provided on our private ice fishing trips Upstate New York, including rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. Our Fort Drum area ice fishing guides ensure every trip is beginner-friendly, family-friendly, and safety-focused, so you can focus on reeling in trophy fish like Northern Pike, Tiger Musky, Lake Trout, Walleye, Salmon, Perch, and Crappie

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Guided Kayak and Ice Fishing in Upstate New York

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Fish the ice during prime winter hours with Battle Fish Black River. These guided half-day ice fishing trips are ideal for anglers looking for a focused, productive experience without committing to a full day on the ice.Trips are offered in two timeframes to match peak activity periods:<ul><li>Morning Trip: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, targeting early feeding windows when many cold-water species are most active.</li><li>Afternoon Trip: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, capitalizing on mid-day and late-afternoon movement as fish settle into consistent patterns.</li></ul>All trips take place on North Country lakes and reservoirs selected for safe ice conditions and current fish activity, ensuring both safety and success.Note: The guide will reach out 24–48 hours prior to the trip with the final meeting location based on recent scouting reports and ice conditions.

Watertown

4 hrs 

Half Day Ice Fishing 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Enjoy a guided ice fishing trip in Upstate New York with Battle Fish Black River, a veteran-owned, licensed fishing guide service located near Fort Drum, NY. This trip takes place on frozen lakes and reservoirs throughout the North Country, with locations selected based on current ice conditions, safety, and seasonal fish activity. This full-day ice fishing experience is designed for anglers looking to target popular winter species while learning proven hardwater techniques from a knowledgeable local guide. Trips are customized based on conditions and angler goals, making this a great option for both first-time ice anglers and experienced fishermen. Note: The guide will reach out 24–48 hours prior to the trip with the final meeting location based on scouting reports

8 hrs 

Full Day Ice Fishing Trip 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Spend the afternoon fishing the ice with a veteran-owned, licensed fishing guide service located near Fort Drum, NY. This guided half-day ice fishing trip is designed for anglers who prefer a later start while still targeting productive winter fisheries across the North Country. Trips are scheduled during the afternoon window when light conditions and weather patterns often create consistent opportunities for cold-water species. Locations are chosen based on safe ice thickness, access, and current fish activity. Note: The guide will reach out 24–48 hours prior to the trip with the final meeting location based on scouting reports

Half Day Ice Fishing 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Enjoy a guided kayak fishing trip in Upstate New York designed for anglers who want an exciting, hands-on fishing experience on local lakes and slow-moving rivers. This trip focuses exclusively on kayak fishing, allowing access to shallow water and low-pressure areas that traditional boats cannot reach.Trips are offered in two half-day timeframes to match peak fishing conditions:<ul><li>Morning Trip: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, targeting early feeding windows when many cold-water species are most active.</li><li>Afternoon Trip: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM, capitalizing on mid-day and late-afternoon movement as fish settle into consistent patterns.</li></ul>Locations are selected based on current conditions to provide a productive and enjoyable outing.Note: The guide will reach out 24–48 hours prior to the trip with the final meeting location based on scouting reports and conditions.

Upstate New York Kayak Fishing Guided Trip

A photograph of a largemouth bass caught while fishing

Angler with two fish enjoying a successful fishing trip

Solitary angler fishing in scenic location

Fisherman catching two fish in unknown location

One person fishing in an unknown location

One person fishing at an unknown location

A person fishing with two fish at an unknown location

Solitary fisherman enjoying a day of fishing

Fisherman with two fish caught while fishing at an unknown location

Angler fishing with rod and reel in unknown location

Angler with fishing rod enjoying solitary fishing adventure

Guided Ice Fishing Upstate New York | Battle Fish Black River

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Upstate New York Ice Fishing Report | BattleFish Black River

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Expert Tips for Fishing Activity in Upstate New York

How to Prepare for Fishing Activity in Upstate New York

The guides at Battle FishBlack River LLC are seasoned Upstate New York fishing guides with deep roots in the North Country. Each guide began their journey with a passion for local waters, learning the lakes and rivers through years of hands-on experience. What started as weekend fishing trips and time spent exploring frozen waterways evolved into a professional commitment to providing guided ice fishing in Upstate New York for anglers of all skill levels.With years of experience navigating the waters of North Country NY, the team brings expert knowledge of seasonal patterns, ice conditions, and fish behavior. These Fort Drum area fishing guides focus on safety, education, and results, ensuring every guest feels confident and comfortable on the ice. Their background in private fishing charters allows them to tailor each trip to match the group’s experience level, goals, and pace.Specializing in targeting trophy fish in Upstate New York, the guides are skilled in pursuing Northern Pike, Walleye, Lake Trout, Perch, and more. Their hands-on approach, patience with beginners, and strategic techniques for experienced anglers set them apart. Whether guests are new to ice fishing or chasing their next personal best, Battle Fish Black River LLC’s guides deliver a professional, memorable, and rewarding guided fishing charter experience in Upstate New York.

Meet Our Expert Fishing Guides in Upstate New York

Discover North Country NY Ice Fishing

Why Upstate NY is the Best ChoiceUpstate New York, especially the Fort Drum area and North Country NY, is a premier destination for private ice fishing trips. With its crystal-clear lakes, scenic rivers, and hidden honeyholes, anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a safe, rewarding, and unforgettable experience. Battle Fish Black River LLC brings local expertise to every trip, guiding you to the most productive waters and ensuring your private ice fishing experience Upstate NY is second to none.Fishing Info &amp; TipsWhether you’re exploring the frozen lakes of Jefferson County NY or venturing into lesser-known North Country waterways, the ice fishing season here offers unmatched opportunities. Guests enjoy half-day ($120) and full-day ($250) private trips, with all gear provided and beginner-friendly guidance from our Fort Drum area ice fishing guides. Safety, ice thickness checks, and expert navigation ensure your trip is enjoyable and worry-free.Fish Species in Upstate NYUpstate New York is home to a diverse range of species that make it perfect for trophy catches. During our guided trips, anglers target Northern Pike, Tiger Musky, Lake Trout, Walleye, Salmon, Perch, and Crappie, each offering a unique challenge and thrill. From first-time anglers to seasoned veterans, everyone can find excitement in North Country NY’s rich fishing ecosystem.Upstate NY Fishing HistoryFishing in Upstate New York has a long and storied tradition, with generations of anglers discovering its rich lakes, rivers, and bays. The region has been renowned for its trophy fish and pristine waters, attracting both local families and visiting enthusiasts. At Battle Fish Black River LLC, we combine this local knowledge with modern techniques to provide a private guided ice fishing experience Upstate NY that honors the history and culture of the area. Ready to experience the best ice fishing in North Country NY? Battle Fish Black River LLC offers private trips that are beginner-friendly, family-friendly, and fully equipped. Explore the hidden lakes and rivers near Fort Drum, target trophy fish, and create memories that last a lifetime. Book your private ice fishing adventure Upstate New York today!