Yes, it took longer than usual this year, but I’ll go out on a limb by saying “finally, we can put winter behind us.”On Lake Winnipesaukee, “Ice-Out” was officially declared Wednesday at 2:30 p.m., one of the sure signs of spring.”Ice-Out” occurs when the ice that has covered the lake since late December or early January melts enough to allow the M/S Mount Washington cruise ship to navigate between Alton Bay, Center Harbor, Weirs Beach, Meredith and Wolfeboro.For the avid fisherman, there is nothing like fishing for salmon just after the ice is gone. During the three to four months of winter, when the water is covered with snow and ice, most of the available oxygen is depleted and any remaining oxygen will be found in the band of water just under the ice. As the ice melts this stratified layer stays together until it warms up to the same temperature and mixes with the remaining lake water. Shortly after, the entire water column will naturally mix, resulting in a process called turnover.It usually takes one to two weeks to complete the process after ice out. Fish are usually found in this layer of water and are hungry, aggressive feeders until the turnover takes place.The fishing can’t be matched and it’s the most breathtaking, thrilling and productive time to be on the water for the avid fresh water fisherman. If you plan on being on the water, remember the weather in New England in April can be unpredictable.Within one week, there can be blustery winds, bone-chilling drizzle, or summer-like temperatures. When you are on the water for the day, dressing warmly in layers of clothing is a must. You can remove layers and be comfortable from the chill of sunrise through the warmth of midafternoon.Game fish activity changes dramatically with a degree or two change in water temperature. Knowing this, you should concentrate your efforts on surface water early in the season. Use the wind to your advantage; it will often blow warmer surface water to the windward shore.Because of this your line, colors and sizes of lures should vary outside of the norm. Fish around river inlets where the water will be warmer. Most fish like to stage in moving water. Go deeper as the day progresses, especially if you are fishing for salmon or trout. They are noted to be light sensitive and will seek a comfort zone.uI hope the weather cooperates for the traditional opening day fishing derby today at Sluice Pond, sponsored by the Lynn Fish and Game Protective Association.All the activities will take place regardless of the weather and are free of charge and open to everyone. This annual event has been taking place at Sluice Pond for as long as I can remember. The tournament starts at 8 a.m. and continues until noon.Cash prizes will be awarded for the largest Trout and Salmon. As an added bonus, the state also tags trout as part of the Massachusetts Tags “N” Trout program that could also be worth a prize.If you catch this year’s tagged fish, bring it to Ippi’s. They will match it up to the prizes list and if it is a LFG tag they will tell you when the next LFG meeting is so you can attend it and receive your money prize. Incidentally, Ippi’s Bait and Tackle will have extended hours for your last minute tournament angling needs and they are stocked up and ready to provide you with all the right bait and tackle to make your next outing is a successful one, especially at Sluice.uAs a friendly reminder to all of those that fish from a kayak or canoe this time of year remember the state law requires all canoeists and kayakers to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times through May 15. Wearing a life jacket could save someone’s life and could also make an encounter with the Environmental Police or other enforcement officer a positive experience.uDue to the impact of this year’s severe winter in northern Maine, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and wildlife has suspended the spring wild turkey hunt in portions of northern Maine, specifically Wild