Ice anglers may be eager to use those new augers, shanties and other new gear sitting under their Christmas trees, but before using those freshly unwrapped items on a nearby lake, the Department of Environmental Conversation he says anglers should use common sense and pay attention. some simple tips to stay safe on the ice.
“Winter in New York offers outdoor adventurers some of the best opportunities to get outdoors, like ice fishing, when conditions are right,” says a press release on the website of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. “With proper preparation and safe ice, anyone can enjoy the state’s abundant ice fishing opportunities. Many fish species are still quite active during the hard water season, including perch, sunfish , lake trout and northern pike, leaving something for every type of angler to get out on the ice.”
Safety is essential during the ice fishing season, and anglers should make sure the ice is thick enough before heading out, officials said. Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for anglers accessing the ice on foot.
Ice thickness can vary across bodies of water and even within the same body of water. Officials said anglers should be especially cautious in areas of moving water and around boat docks and homes where bubbles may be installed to reduce ice formation.
The gel can be easily tested with an auger or spud rod in several places. The DEC also encourages anglers to fish with a family member or friend for safety.
Also, local bait and tackle shops are great resources for learning where the ice is safe and what other anglers are catching.
Beginning ice anglers are encouraged to download articles and guides from the state’s ice fishing website: — which also contains additional information, including a list of open ice fishing waters, popular lures, and a link to the DEC’s Youtube.com channel featuring a series of instructional and informative videos.
Ice Fishing Tips:
Make sure that the use of bait fish is allowed in the body of water by checking the special regulations by county.
Use only certified, disease-free baitfish purchased from a local tackle shop and keep the receipt.
Use only personally harvested baitfish from the same body of water they caught.
Dump unused baitfish and water in a suitable place on dry land.
Always carry a valid fishing license before going out on the ice. Fishing licenses are valid for 365 days after purchase.
More information on ice fishing, including the entire chapter of the “Beginner’s Guide to Freshwater Fishing,” is available on the department’s website at www.DEC.ny.gov.