It’s that time of year when ice anglers and other recreationists head out to Montana’s “hard” waters for the winter season. Whether ice fishing, ice skating, hunting, snowmobiling or just taking a walk, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff remind recreationists that safety should be the number one concern during a day out on (or near) the ice.
When on the ice, remember:
• Anglers and other recreationists should be familiar with the water body. Pay close attention to the changing conditions of the ice.
• If you doubt the safety of the ice - stay off of it. Nothing is worth falling into frigid water.
• Blue or “clear” ice is usually hard. Watch out for opaque, gray, dark or porous spots in the ice that could be weak, soft areas. Ice also tends to thin more quickly at the shorelines.
• Note areas on the ice that look “different” —they usually are! Many times, thinner areas of ice (caused by springs, gas pockets, sunken islands, points, etc.) have a different color or look to them. Use extreme caution or stay away from these areas.
• Recommended minimum ice thickness guidelines for good, clear ice: Less than 4 inches: STAY OFF; 4+ inches: Activities on foot; 7+ inches: Snowmobile or ATV; 10+ inches: Small car and 12+ inches: Truck or SUV. Driving a car, truck or SUV is not recommended, proceed at your own risk! For white ice or “snow ice,” double the minimums.
• Watch for pressure ridges, open water or thin ice where the ice has cracked and heaved due to expansion from freezing.
• Test the ice ahead of you with an ice spud bar or an auger.
• Don’t leave children unsupervised on the ice.
• Lakes and ponds do not freeze at the same thickness all over.
• Moving water (rivers, streams and springs) weaken ice by wearing it away from underneath. Avoid going on ice over moving water
• The least safe ice usually occurs early and late in the season, when the weather is warmer and less predictable.
• Wear a life jacket (PFD) or carry a throwable floatation device while out on the ice.
• Dress warm but practical. Many styles of ice fishing jackets and bibs provide extra buoyancy to help keep you afloat if you do fall through.
• Consider having your dog on a leash. It is not uncommon for people to get into trouble on the ice while trying to rescue their dog.
• Before you leave the house, tell someone where you plan to go and when you plan to return.
• Carry a pair of ice picks (long spikes on a heavy string around your neck). If you break through the ice, you can use the spikes to grip the ice and pull yourself out of the water.
• Search for videos on ice safety and “what to do” if you should fall through the ice.
• Remember, NO ICE is 100% safe!
FWP wishes all anglers and recreationists a safe, adventurous and successful season.
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