On a frigid day, three dedicated ice fishermen, accompanied by an enthusiastic young angler, achieved an extraordinary feat on the frozen expanse of the St. Lawrence River. Utilizing substantial shiner minnows purchased as bait, they embarked on an adventure that would lead to an unforgettable encounter beneath the thick ice, demonstrating both perseverance and a deep connection to the sport.
The excursion commenced with the group procuring large shiner minnows, specifically marketed for pike, from a local tackle shop situated near Massena, New York. Their destination was the icy waters off Hockens Point on the St. Lawrence River, where the team meticulously drilled holes through the impressive seven-inch-thick ice. Setting up tip-ups equipped with sturdy 30-pound test lines and wire leaders to withstand the sharp teeth of formidable fish, they lowered their oversized baits into the frigid depths below. The youngest member of the group, five-year-old Dalton, displayed an unwavering dedication, eagerly monitoring each tip-up, ready to spring into action at the sight of a flag signaling a bite.
The serene winter landscape was suddenly broken by the tell-tale pop of a tip-up flag, indicating a significant strike. The line rapidly unwound from the reel as the fish made a powerful run, nearly depleting the spool before Chris Monroe could intervene. With quick reflexes, he managed to grasp the remaining line just before it vanished into the icy water, securing the formidable catch. The struggle that ensued was intense, lasting approximately twenty minutes as Monroe wrestled with the powerful creature through the ice hole. Initially, he suspected he had hooked a colossal sturgeon or an exceptionally large northern pike, never having experienced such a strong battle with a pike through the ice.
Eventually, the massive fish was brought to the surface, revealing itself to be an enormous muskellunge, barely fitting through the narrow opening. With careful handling, Monroe managed to unhook the fish, fortunately, the treble hook dislodged easily, though the oversized bait was lost in the process. Prioritizing the fish's well-being, the anglers quickly captured a few photographs and a video documenting its release back into the river. Despite not being formally measured to ensure a swift return to the water, the images clearly showed the muskie extending well over three feet in length. Such a catch, particularly through the ice, is a rare occurrence, highlighting the exceptional nature of this angling triumph.
The memorable event provided Chris Monroe with a cherished experience alongside his son and a close friend. He expressed his joy to local media, reflecting on the special moment and harboring the hope that his son might one day achieve a state record. This extraordinary catch stands as a testament to the thrill of winter angling and the unexpected rewards that the frozen St. Lawrence River can yield.