Ice anglers find mixed results at Henrys Lake

There is one winter activity that's off and running at Henrys Lake - ice fishing. A November cold snap helped ice form on this famous fishery, and anglers have responded by boring holes in the ice in hopes of catching a lunker. Many anglers have recently reported catching and releasing a dozen or more fish each day, although many anglers also report tough fishing as well. Henrys Lake is a 6,000 acre lake just outside the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park, known for abundant populations of trophy-sized cutthroat, hybrid and brook trout. It has been noted as one of the most popular flat water fisheries in Idaho, and people come from all over the country in pursuit of the lake's famous trout. Ice fishing is relatively new to Henrys Lake. In 2011, Fish and Game extended the season into winter, allowing anglers to fish the lake through January 1. Anglers are reminded that fishing is closed on Henrys Lake from January 2 through May 27, 2016. "Although the closing date is slightly unusual - ending on a date other than the last day of the month - this provides fishing opportunity when many Idahoans are not working," said Dan Garren, Idaho Fish and Game fisheries manager based in Idaho Falls. While many anglers are reporting good success, a few have struggled, which is typical any time of year at Henrys Lake. Anglers are encouraged to check the weather before heading out, as winter conditions can be extreme. Standard ice fishing rules apply at Henrys Lake. Anglers may use as many as five rods; holes in the ice may be no more than ten inches in diameter. The trout limit is two fish. Anglers must stop fishing once they have two fish in possession, including brook trout. Anglers ringing in the New Year fishing on one of Idaho's premier fisheries are also reminded that a 2016 Idaho Fishing License in their possession is required January 1.