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Look for safe ice when ice fishing



Tips for staying safe when ice fishing

Anglers in New York State can stay busy all winter by targeting some of their favorite fish species through the ice.

If you've never been ice fishing before and would like to test the waters - learn how to ice fish.

Safe ice should be your number one consideration when ice fishing. A minimum of three to four inches of solid ice is the general rule for safety. Ice thickness, however, is not uniform on any body of water. The guidelines presented on the DEC Ice Fishing page are based on new, clear ice on non-running waters. Since ice thickness can vary on a lake, check the ice periodically to stay safe.

The guide is based on new, clear ice on non-running waters. Slush ice is about 50 percent weaker. Clear ice over running water is about 20 percent weaker. Double the recommendations for white ice. Many ice anglers do not like to fish on less than five inches of ice, and do not like to drive a pick-up truck on less than 15 inches of ice. Use common sense!

Be cautious in areas where "bubblers" are used to protect docks. They can produce thin, unsafe ice some distance away. Be especially alert in areas near shore, over moving bodies of water, and where streams enter and exit lakes and ponds.

Remember, use the buddy system while ice fishing - it saves lives.

 DEC's ice fishing webpage has links to our basic technique video, regulations, and places to ice fish. Don't forget to buy your annual fishing license. For more information on places to ice fish, visit DEC's website.

Watch a clip about ice fishing and check out other clips on DEC's YouTube Channel.


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