Welcome winter!

The rumors are true: 2017 gave us a cold shoulder upon its departure. A blast of arctic air at the end of December and Lake Champlain’s liquid surface waved good by; blue became white as anxious ice fishing anglers applauded.

Talented local photographer, Shawn Michener, braved the sub-zero temperatures to capture some of the first pictures of the frozen surface off the Port Henry shore. He also got some great shots of a few happy ice fishermen on their first adventure of the season — a season that is off to a remarkable start.

Pop-up shelters provide wind protection and accommodate portable heaters to fend off the cold.

On Lake Champlain, we see them pop up in all shapes and sizes. They are, after all, considered a home away from home for many of our heartiest fisher folk!

All the needed gear is easily hauled via sled.

It's still early in the season, but with the right conditions the lake can become a virtual ice village with dozens upon dozens of shelters.

These men were content to make first tracks on foot!

Happy ice fishermen!

And even Champ is excited about his home’s solid roof. He actually enjoys watching humans walk on water.

Plan your own ice fishing adventure by talking with one of our local guides or visiting a local bait and tackle shop. While you're there, be sure to grab your bait and gear, and learn about what exactly is biting where.