Ice Fishing Season Drawing To A Close Just In Time At Ririe Reservoir

RIRIE - Despite a spotty start, anglers were able to have an enjoyable time this winter during the special ice fishing only season at Ririe Reservoir, but as unstable spring conditions cause the ice to disappear, the special season ending date of March 31st seems to be coming at just the right time. The special season has been in effect for eleven years now, so most local anglers are aware of the regulations pertaining to this fishery. The area that has been open to ice fishing extends from the dam upstream for approximately one mile upstream to the Juniper boat ramp. Current ice conditions at the reservoir are very unstable, with water seeping between the shoreline and the ice. Ice fishing is a unique and fun sport, but takes place in an environment that doesn't allow much of a margin for error. Anglers trying to take advantage of the waning days of the season should exercise extreme caution and remember that the season is only open to fishing through a hole in the ice. No boat or shore fishing is allowed during the winter season. Because of the danger of thin ice, the ice fishing season ends March 31, and would not continue into April even if stable ice remained. The entire reservoir will reopen to fishing on May 1, 2006.