ALBANY COUNTY — Ann Lee Pond in Colonie, and Thompson’s Lake in the Helderbergs are both popular for ice fishing and have public access to fishing. 

Fish species that are common in Ann Lee Pond include Common Carp, Brown Bullhead, Pumpkinseed, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, White Crappie, Black Crappie and Yellow Perch. Thompson’s Lake has those fish and also has Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and Chain Pickerel.

Check the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation website for licenses, rules, and regulations pertaining to fishing.

Be prepared for changing winter weather conditions like snow, ice and cold weather by wearing layers of clothing. Plan ahead and carry equipment in a daypack such as first-aid supplies, food and water, a map, and sun protection. Let someone know your route and return time.

According to the DEC, ice is not safe yet on ponds, bays of lakes, and river backwaters. In the section of the Hudson River from the Troy Dam to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge in Catskill, there are unsafe levels of PCBs in the water and in the fish.  Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are an industrial waste chemicals which can build up in your body over time.  

The majority of waters in Albany County are clean and a meal of fish caught in them can safely be eaten once a week.   Go to www.health.ny.gov/fish to find a list of fishing waters with public access. Look under Free Brochures and Materials for Hudson Valley Region: Health Advice on Eating Fish You Catch.