MONTPELIER — The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is holding a series of introductory seminars this winter on a variety of ice fishing techniques.
These clinics are open to people of all ages and levels of experience, including those who are completely new to fishing. Participants will learn about fishing regulations and techniques, fish identification, ice safety and more.
“Winter in Vermont can be a joyful time to be outdoors and there’s no better way to experience the outdoors than on a frozen lake catching your dinner,” said Corey Hart, who coordinates the department’s Let’s Go Fishing program.
Programs near Addison County include:
•  Introduction to Walleye Fishing: Saturday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m.-noon, Chittenden Reservoir, Chittenden. Walleye are the largest member of the perch family, and are found in Vermont in Chittenden Reservoir, Lake Carmi, the Connecticut River, Island Pond, Salem Lake and Lake Champlain. Come learn how to fish for these large and exciting fish.
•  Ice Fishing for Panfish: Sunday, Feb. 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Shelburne Pond, Shelburne. Panfish are the smaller fish species that fit in a pan, including pumpkinseed and bluegill sunfish, perch, rock bass and crappie. They’re easy to catch and tasty to eat. 
•  Introduction to Ice Fishing: Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2-5:00 p.m., Lake Bomoseen, Castleton. Come learn how to experience all that a Vermont winter has to offer by getting started at ice fishing. Learn the basics from checking the ice for safety to selecting sites and drilling holes to setting tip-ups and jigging. 
Equipment will be provided, but participants should dress for the weather as the programs will take place outside. All seminars are free, and participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks or meal. Programs last 2.5 to 3 hours.
Space is limited to the first 30 signups and seminars fill up quickly, so sign up as early as possible. Registration is required for all programs and can be completed by calling 802-265-2279 or [email protected]. Directions to the meeting spot will be given upon registering.
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please include a description of the accommodation you will need. Individuals making such requests must include their contact information. Send an e-mail to: [email protected] or call the office staff at 802-828-1000 (voice), 1-800-253-0191 (TTY).