Photo by Mike Gnatkowski.

Ohio's lakes and ponds offer plenty of angling opportunities beginning in January. No matter what's up with the weather, thousands of fishermen that take to the ice (or open water) each winter.

Winter angling opportunities can vary from one year to the next. Spots that were hot last year or even the year before may not make the list this season. Weather conditions can change from year to year, but Buckeye State anglers can always expect good fishing when they hit the state's top cool-season waters in winter.

Here's a look at what's in store for Ohio's 2008 ice-fishing season, based on reports by our state's fisheries biologists.

These lakes and rivers are certainly not the only good waters to fish in the state, but they're deemed the best!

DISTRICT ONE
Buckeye Lake
Buckeye Lake invariably makes the list of top ice-fishing hotspots in District One. The lake is in Fairfield and Perry counties off state routes 13, 37 and 79, just 20 miles west of Columbus. It does receive a fair amount of angling pressure, but this should not deter new anglers. The fishing here is excellent, and there are plenty of opportunities available for everyone.

According to Elmer Heyob, an Ohio Division of Wildlife fisheries biologist, there are numerous species of fish anglers can target here.

"The lake averages only five feet deep," Heyob said, "allowing it to freeze up much quicker than many other lakes in Ohio."

Crappies and bluegills are a mainstay on the lake. Crappie populations are good, and big bull 'gills cruise the shallow stump-laden flats that are quite common on the lake.

The lake is also noted locally for its phenomenal saugeye bite. 'Eyes in the 2- and 3-pound range are not at all uncommon, and anglers often see much larger fish.

The area all around the lake has numerous boat launches, tackle stores and restaurants that are extremely easy to locate along the state routes into the region.

More information on Buckeye Lake may be obtained by contacting Ohio's District One office at (614) 644-3925.

You can also contact the Buckeye Lake State Park office at (740) 467-2690.

Indian Lake
Some would argue that Indian Lake is the best ice-fishing lake in the district. It is definitely worth a visit this winter.