Imagine reeling in a truly massive fish that transforms a quiet day of ice fishing into an unforgettable experience! That’s exactly what Henadzi Kuzniatsou encountered last week while ice fishing on Delta Lake, located near his home in Utica. It had been one of those slow days when the catch was scarce; after four hours, he had only managed to land a couple of walleye and a yellow perch, all caught using shiners with a homemade tip-up set in just 12 feet of water.
So, when the flag on his tip-up signaled another bite, he didn’t anticipate anything extraordinary. However, the line began to rapidly unwind from the reel, leaving him with barely any remaining.
"I immediately sensed it was going to be something significant!" Kuzniatsou exclaimed. "And then I saw it! What a magnificent creature!"
What he pulled through the ice was indeed remarkable—a stunning northern pike measuring 43 inches and tipping the scales at nearly 22 pounds. Although it was impressive, he reminisced about catching even larger pike back in Belarus, his homeland.
This substantial fish provided more than just a thrill; it was perfect for feeding his extended family. Kuzniatsou's wife prepared their share by frying it up in an iron skillet later that very day.
"When the fish is this size, the bones come out quite easily by hand," he noted, sharing a practical tip for anyone who might be hesitant about cleaning larger catches.
Za zdorovie, Hena! Cheers to good fortune in fishing!
We would love to see your ice fishing success stories! Share your photos of winter catches—whether it's pike, walleye, crappie, or any other species you’ve landed. To make your submission complete, please include: (1) names of everyone featured in the photo, (2) their hometowns, (3) the type of fish caught, (4) the location where it was caught, (5) length and weight if available, and (6) the bait that was used. Don’t forget to add some vivid details; after all, everyone enjoys a captivating fish tale. Happy fishing, everyone!
Steve Featherstone is the outdoors reporter for Syracuse.com, where he shares insights on everything related to the great outdoors, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and ecology. Prior to joining Syracuse.com, he garnered two decades of experience working as a freelance writer.
