This scene occurred at Sylvan Beach, around 1910. Oneida Lake typically freezes by late December or early January and thaws by mid-March or early April.

Does Oneida Lake freeze over?

While not geologically considered one of the Finger Lakes, Oneida Lake, because of its proximity, is referred by some as their "thumb". Because it is shallow, it is warmer than the deeper Finger Lakes in summer and its surface freezes solidly in winter.

Is Oneida Lake frozen?

Oneida Lake might be frozen but that doesn't mean the fishing has to stop. Plenty of fish can be caught through the frozen ice such as Bluegills, Crappies, Yellow Perch, and Walleye on Oneida Lake.