Ice fishing is a popular winter sport in nearly any area that experiences temperatures cold enough to freeze their waterways. And although ice fishing can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, it can also be dangerous if proper safety is not taken seriously.
It is difficult to make any event on ice 100 percent safe, as ice is always changing and therefore unpredictable. Never go out on ice that does not appear to be safe. As a general rule, ice should be at least 4 inches thick to support a person, 5 inches thick to support an ATV, 6 inches thick to hold a snowmobile, and at least a foot thick to drive a car or truck on. However, you should be aware that ice does not always freeze uniformly. There are many things that can affect ice thickness, such as fixed objects under the water (wreckage, tree stumps, etc.), heavy snow cover, water currents, or sudden and frequent freezes and thaws.
It is unwise to go out on ice alone, especially if you can’t swim or are physically unable to handle an emergency, should one arise. Always make sure that someone knows where you and your party are going and when you expect to return home. It is a good idea to carry a cell phone. Not only can you check in with your family members or friends, but you will also have it on hand in case someone in your party goes through the ice.
Since ice fishing is typically done during the colder months of winter (when ice is safest), it is important to dress warmly for the occasion. Dress in layers that will keep you warm, but will not add excessive bulk which makes it difficult to move freely. Remember to cover your extremities, as they lose heat most quickly. A good pair of boots, gloves, and a hat is very important to stay warm. Do not wear hip waders in an attempt to stay warm, as they can fill up with water and pull you under quickly if you happen to fall through the ice. However, do make sure to wear a life jacket or other personal flotation device as this can help keep you afloat.
When heading out over the ice, keep distance between yourself and the person (or vehicle) in front of you. Not only do you have a better chance of unknowingly skimming over a patch of less safe ice when fewer people (or vehicles) are on the same spot at once, you also will be better off if someone falls in. The closer together the members of the party are, the more likely it is they will fall in together.
Even if ice is thick and considered safe, there is always the possibility of previously used fishing holes being left open. Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are crossing the ice with young children. Falling into an open fishing hole is painful and often results in bruising of the leg or groin.
If crossing the ice in a vehicle, always keep doors or windows open so you can quickly escape if needed. If windows and doors are closed and you go through the ice, you will not be able to escape until the pressure in your vehicle has equalized. This generally means a vehicle will have to fill with an uncomfortable amount of water before you can open a window to get out.
If you fall through the ice, do not panic. Use ice picks, screwdrivers, nails, or any other substantial sharp objects to dig into the ice and help pull you out. Stab into the ice in the direction you were standing went you went down. This is the ice that last supported you and will generally still be the strongest option. Once out, do not stand up. Instead, roll far away from the hole. If you see someone go through the ice, do not run to them. Instead, lie down on the ice at least 6 feet from the hole and extend a long object (ladder, auger, belt, rope, jacket, etc.) to pull them out.
There is no way to make ice fishing 100 percent safe. However, by educating yourself on ice fishing safety, you can increase your chances of survival and consequently have a better time!
