Ask Fish and Game: Ice Fishing

Q. How can I tell when the ice is safe for ice fishing? A. Anglers must use their own discretion when deciding whether or not the ice is thick enough for ice fishing. Check the ice thickness and condition before venturing over deep water. Drill a hole and measure thickness. Four inches of solid ice - not mushy or porous - is generally considered safe for anglers; but it takes 8 to 10 inches to support a snow machine or an ATV. Fish with a partner, take extra dry clothes and take a throw rope along just in case. Some experienced ice fishers suggest carrying a knife or other sharp instrument on a lanyard around the neck. It would give a person who has fallen through something to grip the ice to help pull themselves out, or at least something to hang onto as they await help. Anglers also should pay attention to weather trends. If the weather warms up, ice may become less safe for fishing. And remember, some reservoirs are filling through the winter, so be careful around the shoreline, as the ice is often thin on the edges.