SASKATCHEWAN — Ice fishing season has finally arrived on Saskatchewan waterways and the Ministry of Environment is reminding anglers to keep safety top of mind.
With unseasonably warm temperatures throughout December, many waters throughout the province have not fully frozen. This makes it especially easy to misjudge ice thickness.
“Ice fishing is one of the great Saskatchewan pastimes and I know many people are eager to get out and enjoy it,” Environment Minister Christine Tell said. “While we are excited for ice fishing season to get started, anglers must be especially careful this year when on or around ice by thoughtfully assessing its thickness.”
Some tips to help with an angling excursion would be to plan. Always tell someone where you will be fishing and when you plan to return.
Be prepared. Wear proper cold-weather apparel and layer clothing to stay warm. Assemble some safety gear for emergencies such as a cell phone, ice picks, a throw rope, flares and a life jacket or flotation suit.
Take a buddy and stick together. Try to fish with others rather than alone. Avoid open water. If there is open water nearby or the ice looks slushy, stay away.
Don't assume. Ice conditions can change rapidly. Test the ice thickness before you travel on it and check with other local anglers for information about the waterbody.
Online sources such as the Water Security Agency website can provide more information on ice safety.
In addition to safety, ensure you're familiar with all rules and regulations for fishing. Free fishing weekend will take place Feb. 17 to 19 and the ministry urges anglers to know their limits and stay within them, carry their licence, mark their ice shack and clean, drain and dry all of their equipment. For more information, the Saskatchewan Anglers Guide can be accessed online and downloaded.
