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Katie LaLonde
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On Saturday, February 1st, an entire ice fishing community will occupy Lake Simond as the 2025 Northern Challenge Ice Fishing Derby kicks off. One of the largest ice fishing derbies in New York state, fishermen and women from all over the Northeast will compete to win $40,000 in cash and prizes. Last year, due to a mild winter and unsafe ice, the Northern Challenge took a year off, meaning the excitement is really building for 2025 to get back on the ice!

Thinking of joining us in Tupper Lake for the Northern Challenge? Here are 5 things you should know:

1. Ice conditions

We had a great early start to the ice season, and as of late December ice reports from Lake Simond were a solid 5 to 6 inches. As we get closer, be sure to keep an eye on the Northern Challenge Facebook page for ice conditions updates. You can also call the Tupper Lake Information Center at 518-359-3328 for ice reports. As of January 25th, we are reporting 12 to 13 inches of ice on Lake Simond with 6 inches of snow on top. We recommend bringing your warm snow gear, tall waterproof boots, and lots of layers to add or take off throughout the day! Snowmobiles, four-wheelers, and side by sides have been seen buzzing around the lake recently as shacks start to be set up. 

A fishermen checking his tip up.

2. Registration

Registration is open for the 2025 Northern Challenge! You can register online until Wednesday, January 29th; after that, register in person on Friday, January 31st or Saturday, February 1st. Check-in and registration is open at the Sportsmens Club on Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday starting at 4 a.m. 

If you register online, you must still check in to receive your wrist band. Check out the full rules and regulations.

3. Merchandise

2025 Northern Challenge merchandise is available at the Sportsmens Club during registration. Sweatshirts, long sleeve shirts, hats and coffee mugs are available this year, while supplies last. Bring cash to purchase, and we recommend getting there early as it goes quickly!

Front and back views of a crimson long-sleeve tshirt promoting the Northern Challenge.

4. Bait & supplies

Be sure to pack your ice fishing gear including tip ups, auger, shack, and more! If you forget something, no worries we have what you need. When you come into town for the fishing derby you will need to hit some local shops for supplies before you hit the ice. Mountain Market & Redemption has everything you need, from bait to ice fishing gear, as well as cold beverages and snacks to get you through a day on the ice.

Tupper Lake Bait & Tackle can also set you up with bait and any gear you may need before hitting the ice.

Looking to refuel and pack your cooler? Larkin’s Junction Deli & Bakery has gas, a variety of beverages and snacks, as well as tons of breakfast and lunch options to grab and go. Don’t leave without grabbing a homemade sweet treat!

5. Prizes

One of the biggest draws to register for the Northern Challenge is the amount of money and prizes given away throughout the day! $800 is given away every hour for the largest fish caught, door prizes are drawn throughout the day, and a lucky fish is drawn every hour. We wrap up the day at 4 p.m. with 2 four-wheeler drawings and great 50/50 raffles! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to win over $40,000 in cash and prizes!

A group of ice fishermen and fisherwomen smile in front of a shack on the ice. Snowmobiles and fishing tents dot the snowy ice.

The 2025 Northern Challenge is gearing up to be the event of winter, and you don’t want to miss it! While your in the area, check out the Empire State Winter Games at the Tupper Lake Civic Center, Winter Carnival in Saranac Lake, and many more events happening throughout the weekend! Lodging fills up fast, book now! Register today to claim your spot in a must-do, can't-miss winter event in Tupper Lake.