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

Fishing License

Get Your Valid New York Fishing License

Join our expert guided kayak fishing on Upstate NY lakes. 8-hour trips target shallow waters. Book now!

Lake Kayak Fish

Full Day Lake Kayak Fishing Battle Fish Black River

Join our expert guided half day kayak fishing on Upstate NY lakes. Morning and afternoon trips available. Book your lake adventure today.

Kayak Fish NY

Kayak Fishing Upstate NY Battle Fish Black River Lake

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

Things To Do

Things To Do In Upstate New York

Catch Northern Pike, Walleye & Smallmouth Bass on guided Black River float. Book your slam today.

Northern Slam

Northern Slam River Float - Black River Kayak Fishing

Last chance for premium ice fishing trips at sale prices. Hot action on the lake awaits.

Season Sale Ice

End of Season Lake Ice Fishing Sale Battle Fish

Join Battle Fish for productive morning lake ice fishing trips. Expert guides target peak feeding windows on North Country waters. Book your winter adventure today.

Half Day Ice

Half Day Ice Fishing North Country Battle Fish Black River 

Top rated ice fishing guide near Fort Drum. Expert led full day lake trips on prime waters. Book now.

NY Ice Guide

Guided Ice Fishing Upstate NY Battle Fish  Black River Lakes

Join our guided kayak fishing camp targeting pike, musky & bass on Upstate NY lakes. Book today!

Kayak Camp NY

Kayak Fishing Camp - Upstate New York Lakes

Learn more about Matthew Rothery a Exciting Guided Ice Fishing Upstate New York! in Battle Fish Black River LLC

Matthew Rothery - Battle Fish Black River LLC

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

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.

EPSG:4269

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.

Guide

Stunning landscape in NY with fishing gear

Northern Pike fish caught while fishing in Evans Mills

Smallmouth bass caught fishing in Evans Mills

A lone fisherman catches a lake trout in Evans Mills

Largemouth bass caught while fishing in Evans Mills

Largemouth bass caught while fishing in NY

A group of 18 people fishing in Evans Mills

Upstate New York boasts an extraordinarily vast, intertwining network of glacial lakes, deep river channels, and slow-moving backwaters. For outdoor e

Best Time to Go Kayak Fishing in Upstate New York

Situated in the rugged, scenic expanse of Jefferson County, the North Country of New York is widely celebrated as one of the most prolific freshwater 

Best Places to Go Fishing Near Fort Drum, NY

The pristine waterways of Upstate New York represent a magnificent frontier for passionate anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Stretching through t

Black River NY Fishing Guide: Species, Seasons & Best Fishing Spots

End of Season reduced trip rates are available now!

Check out our End of Season SALE Rates!

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

Hook, Reel, Repeat!

Battle Fish Black River

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

See What Anglers Are Reeling In!

Meet Guides Matthew Rothery & Win Anderson 

Battle Fish Black River LLC – Guided Fishing Upstate NY

Trips Are Scheduled Starting April through October

Fishing Season Is Here!

About Battle Fish Black River LLC

Private Fishing Trips with Professional Guides in Upstate NY

Years of Guiding and Counting in Upstate NY

How To Contact BattleFish Black River LLC

Frequently Asked Questions about BattleFish Black River LLC

Battle Fish Black River LLC Gallery

Gift Card

SUPER_ADMIN

BOOKING_ADMIN

MEMBER

Clayton Hutchings is an Army Combat Infantry Veteran and lifelong fisherman.&nbsp;He is a licensed fishing guide in NY, but his passion began in cold water fisheries of North Central Pa where he grew up. He fished Semi-Pro Bass tournaments and won numerous.&nbsp;He is&nbsp;both a self taught fly fisherman and professional fly tyer. He won awards fly fishing&nbsp;in Montana as Top Rod and 3rd place while competing in WV. He enjoys tying flies, sharing that joy with family, friends, fellow veterans and his son Jaxson.&nbsp;Clayton loves to teach all levels of anglers to fish. He specializes in reading waters, identifying insects to pertain to the specific waterways being&nbsp;fished and conditions for an optimal fishing experience. He looks forward to sharing his passion with all levels of anglers and leaving the trip with a new respect for fishing.&nbsp;

guide

Meet Your Expert Fishing Guides in Upstate NY

Veteran Guides, Local Knowledge, Trophy Fish Expertise

Top Guided Fishing Highlights in Upstate NY

Seasonal guided kayak, wading and ice fishing trips for Pike, Musky, Lake Trout, Walleye, Salmon, Steelhead, Perch and more in Upstate NY

Create Lasting Memories on a Guided Fishing Trip in Upstate New York

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

Top Ice Fishing in Upstate New York

Home

Trips & Rates

Territories

Explore Guided Ice Fishing in Upstate New York

Photos

Reports

Reviews

About Us

Company

Guides

Fish Species

Contact

E-GIFT CARDS

Learn More

My Trips

Ice Fishing PM

Ice Fishing Fort Drum NY Battle Fish Black River

Custom Menu

Blog

Our Latest News & Updates

Plan your Salmon River steelhead trip with expert drift boat guides in New York. Explore top seasons, proven techniques, and scenic fishing adventures.

Salmon River Drift Boat Steelhead Trips

Explore hidden Adirondack waters with expert guides. Catch large bass and pike in quiet lakes known for clean water, wildlife, and low fishing pressure.

Remote Ponds and Lakes in Adirondacks

Discover the ultimate Black River NY fishing guide. Explore the best seasons, top fish species, prime locations, and expert North Country charter tips.

Explore the best places for fishing near Fort Drum, NY. Discover top lakes, the Black River, target species, and premier North Country NY fishing adventures.

Learn NY fishing license costs, rules, exemptions, and how to legally enjoy black river fishing and freshwater fishing in New York.

Do You Need a Fishing License in New York?

Discover Delaware River wild trout fishing. Get expert tips on drift boat and wade fishing, plus convenient lodging near top fishing spots.

Delaware River Wild Trout Fishing

Plan your Thousand Islands kayak fishing trip in Clayton, New York. Find smallmouth bass, scenic routes, and expert tips for a successful outing.

Thousand Islands Kayak Fishing

Discover fishing, kayaking, hiking, and family adventures in Upstate NY. Explore Black River fishing, outdoor activities, and guided trips.

Cool Things to Do in Upstate NY for Outdoor Lovers

Discover the best time for kayak fishing NY. Explore prime seasons, Black River kayak fishing, kayak fishing near Fort Drum, and essential angling tactics.

Real Catches. Real Guests. Real Upstate NY Moments.

Battle Fish Black River LLC Fishing Trip Prices

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.

What Guests Say About Our Fishing Trips

BattleFish Black River LLC Reports & Reviews

Schedule a Fishing Trip Now!

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.

5 Star Rated Fishing Charter Company

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

Trip Inclusions

Guided Kayak and Ice Fishing in Upstate New York

See the Action Before You Book Your Trip

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Enjoy a guided kayak fishing trip on the Black River in Upstate NY. Designed for anglers who want an exciting hands on fishing experience while floating a scenic river. This trip focuses exclusively on kayak fishing, allowing access to shallow water and low pressure areas traditional boats cannot reach. The Northern Slam is achieved by catching a Northern Pike, Walleye and Smallmouth Bass in one trip! This River Float Adventure is offered in two half-day timeframes or a full day with a shore lunch.<ul><li>Morning Trip: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM</li><li>Afternoon Trip: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM</li><li>All Day with Lunch: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM</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. "Contact us for Military and Veteran discount code."

Chain Pickerel

Largemouth Bass

Northern Pike

Smallmouth Bass

Walleye

A classic turkey sandwich made with tender, oven-roasted turkey, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, cheese, and a touch of creamy mayo, all layered between fresh, soft bread.

Turkey Sandwich

A fresh chef's salad featuring crisp mixed greens topped with sliced turkey and ham, hard-boiled eggs, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded cheese.

Chef's Salad

151 Leray St

Watertown

Fat Nancy's Tackle Shop

Hancock

4.00hour

8.00hour

Northern Slam River Float

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</li><li>Afternoon Trip: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM</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."Contact us for Military and Veteran discount code"

Half Day Kayak Fishing Trip 

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.<ul><li>Trip Is 8 hours in duration from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm.</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."Contact us for Military and Veteran Discount Code"

Full Day Kayak Fishing Trip

Join us for a Guided Kayak Fishing Trip and explore new lakes. Learn the in's and out's of Kayak Fishing in Upstate NY. This camp style trip is focused around learning how to kayak fish and target Upstate New York's most aggressive fish such as Northern Pike, Tiger Musky and Bass. These camps have limited availability. See upcoming camp dates below. Upcoming Camp Dates:Memorial Day Weekend Camp May 24th - 25th @8:00am

4 hrs 

Kayak Fishing Camp

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

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.

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

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

A photograph of a largemouth bass caught while fishing

Guided Fishing Trips In Upstate New York Near Fort Drum | Battle Fish Black River

 Fishing Trips Upstate New York | Trips and Rates

Fishing Guide Reviews Upstate New York | BattleFish 

Fishing Photos Upstate New York | BattleFish Black River

Upstate New York Fishing Report | BattleFish Black River

Fishing Species Upstate New York | BattleFish Black River

Meet Matthew Rothery - BattleFish Black River LLC

Fishing FAQ | BattleFish Black River LLC 

Book BattleFish Black River LLC - Evans Mills Ice Fishing

Contact Us | BattleFish Black River LLC 

Gift Cards | BattleFish Black River LLC 

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!

The Best Ice Fishing Spots Near Fort Drum

Unpowered or man-powered boat (like rafts, gondolas, kayaks, etc.)

GuideMatthew Rothery

About Matthew

Articles by Matthew Rothery