Ice Fishing Safety
Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2010 11:27 am
Just because it's almost that time...
*Don't fish alone. Let others know exactly where you and your fishing partners are going and when you plan to return.
*Keep fishing holes small and few. When drilling fishing holes with an ice auger, keep the diameter under eight inches. *Bigger holes are not necessary to land fish and can create a safety hazard for others.
*Watch your step. Avoid ice fishing near feeder streams or known springs; brush, logs, plants or docks; multiple ice cracks or ice that is popping or otherwise audible; and dark-colored ice that may be weak.
*Spread out. Too many people congregated in one area may be more than the ice can safely support. Disperse weight and fishing holes.
*Be prepared for weather conditions. Dress in layers and wear thermal underwear, fleece or wool, and wind and waterproof outerwear, especially for feet, hands and head. Take extra clothes, food, water, sand for on-ice traction, and a sled for easy on-ice transport of all equipment.
*Be prepared for emergencies. Carry equipment such as ice picks or awls, rope, and personal flotation devices. Also pack a first-aid kit and matches for starting a fire.
*Don't fish alone. Let others know exactly where you and your fishing partners are going and when you plan to return.
*Keep fishing holes small and few. When drilling fishing holes with an ice auger, keep the diameter under eight inches. *Bigger holes are not necessary to land fish and can create a safety hazard for others.
*Watch your step. Avoid ice fishing near feeder streams or known springs; brush, logs, plants or docks; multiple ice cracks or ice that is popping or otherwise audible; and dark-colored ice that may be weak.
*Spread out. Too many people congregated in one area may be more than the ice can safely support. Disperse weight and fishing holes.
*Be prepared for weather conditions. Dress in layers and wear thermal underwear, fleece or wool, and wind and waterproof outerwear, especially for feet, hands and head. Take extra clothes, food, water, sand for on-ice traction, and a sled for easy on-ice transport of all equipment.
*Be prepared for emergencies. Carry equipment such as ice picks or awls, rope, and personal flotation devices. Also pack a first-aid kit and matches for starting a fire.