The Empire State has an impressive list of big lakes, small lakes and remote ponds offering topnotch ice-fishing opportunities -- and not clustered in just one or two regions. Every county and practically every town offers everything from trout and salmon to pike and walleyes.

In a nutshell, New York has it all!

By most accounts, last season was one of the longest in years. Just about everywhere in most of the northern counties, solid ice formed early and remained through March and into April. Whether or not this winter will provide the same lengthy season is anyone's guess.

But one thing is certain: When access is possible, the fish and angling opportunities will be there.

Many New York lakes and ponds are governed under the general fishing regulations, but some carry seasonal or special creel limits.

The ice-fishing season for certain species varies on a number of waters, so check the current regulations guide for your lakes or ponds of interest.

The same is true regarding the number of tip-ups and lines allowed. The general law allows up to five tip-ups and two hand lines, but on some waters, the number of traps or lines is reduced.

Keep in mind, too, that each tip-up must be clearly identified with the angler's name and address, and the owner must be in immediate attendance while the lines are in the water.

Across New York there are more than 7,500 lakes and ponds, nearly all of which are home to several species of fish. With the vast majority of these waters offering winter angling, it's hard to suggest a list of the "best" waters. But here are some with proven records, bound to please even the most experienced enthusiast.

Many Empire State waters offer a variety of coldwater and warmwater species, but one or two species generally predominate in each category.

If you're interested in a specific type of fish, it's best to choose a lake or pond where it's considered the primary species.

To learn which species dominate on any given water, check with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation's regional offices, as listed in the fishing regulations guide.

NORTHERN REGION
Winters in New York's northern region are often hard and long, but those conditions typically bring prime ice-fishing opportunities. Available species include northern pike, walleyes, tiger muskies, lake trout, brown and rainbow trout, landlocked salmon and the usual assortment of panfish.

The region's ample supply of small ponds offers good fishing. But since access in winter can be a challenge, the bigger lakes receive much of the anglers' attention.

Black Lake
Black Lake in St. Lawrence County is a popular bass spot during the open-water season. Though the lake is closed to the taking of bass during the winter -- as are nearly all the lakes in this part of the state -- this 20-mile long lake offers phenomenal opportunities for panfish, including yellow perch, black crappies and bluegills. Northern pike will also be found in the lake's bays.

On the lake's western shore, the town of Edwardsville is the center of winter activity, offering lodging and other facilities as well as easy access.

For more information, contact the Edwardsville Chamber of Commerce by calling (315) 375-8640. Or visit the chamber's Web site at www.blacklakeny.com.