We used to have guys come to our weigh in at the Sandy Creek Shootout and collect scale samples and heads from fish after weigh in. I can't remember if they were DEC or USGS guys. They haven't been there the last couple of years.
Regardless of the size this season, I highly doubt we will see the crazy catch rates we did last season. It was great for everyone but it really put a dent in lake trout gear sales!