In 2006, the ODOW stocked 323,351 saugeyes in Tappan Lake. Biologists' studies show that 82 percent of the 'eyes in the lake were at least 14 inches, and 40 percent of them were a whopping 18 inches or more. Blade baits and tip-ups with live shiners or chubs are the most popular and effective ways to target saugeyes on Tappan Lake.

A slow subtle presentation and small lures are what people most commonly use through the ice. But Jim Corey, owner of Cripple Creek Bait and Tackle, uses half-ounce blade baits and large jigging spoons and a rapid jigging action.

For more information on Tappan Lake, contact the ODOW's District Three office at (330) 644-2293. For bait and tackle, stop by the Cripple Creek Bait and Tackle.

The store is at 29562 Cadiz-Dennison Road in Dennison, Ohio.

Mosquito Lake
Mosquito Lake is a 7,241-acre lake in Trumbull County. Biologists have deemed this lake as being the most consistent inland walleye fishery in Ohio. In 2006, there were 10,754,908 fry stocked. The average harvested walleye measured 14.7 inches.

The bluegill fishing at Mosquito Lake is also a large attractant for ice- fishermen. 'Gills average about 7 1/2 inches long.

The crappie fishing is most popular on Mosquito Lake during the ice-fishing season. The most productive area to target is the causeway along state Route 88. The average harvested crappie is 11.7 inches long.

Access to Mosquito Lake is off state Route 305 one mile west of state Route 46.

Another District Three hotspot may be found at Portage Lakes. The most popular species here are bluegills and sunfish.

For more information on Mosquito Lake and the Portage Lakes, contact the ODOW's District Three Headquarters at (330) 644-2293.

DISTRICT FOUR AEP Recreation Land
The ponds and small lakes on American Electric Power Company's reclaimed strip-mine land have become a no-brainer decision for many District Four ice-anglers.

With almost 350 ponds, there is a little something for everyone. The main draws, however, are sunfish and largemouth bass.

According to Tim Parrot, an ODOW District Four fisheries biologist, anglers who like catching bass through the ice can do so here. The AEP lakes tend to be good producers in comparison to other lakes and ponds in Ohio during the winter months.

The best fishing may require some walking. Anglers willing to put a little more effort into their fishing extravaganza will be better enabled to boast larger stringers than those who fish the most accessible ponds. AEP waters freeze quickly due to their small size and almost always offer at least a couple of weeks of action for ice-fishing fanatics.