Ice Fishing Safety
Benji Sam holding a 15-inch Mille Lacs Lake walleye on early ice, sporting a floating ice suit and enjoying the resources our lake has to offer.
The Minnesota DNR has issued safety guidelines for safe walking and driving each year on Minnesota waters and recommends these thicknesses before using each mode of transportation on the water this ice season.
By MASHKODE-BIZHIKGAHBAW BENJI SAM
As we transition from fall to winter and the lakes begin to ice up, it is important to remember to respect the water for the life it provides us. The Elders always spoke of that water spirit having power beyond comprehension and when the ice first hardens across the bays and main lake, the water only becomes more powerful. It’s important to remember when heading out to your favorite fishing hole around first ice, don’t ever assume the ice is ever completely safe — even if others have already ventured out ahead of you. As someone who fishes regularly on early ice, I always recommend a few basic safety items to keep you topside when venturing out for fresh fish in December.
First and foremost, I recommend a sturdy ice chisel to check the ice in front of you as you begin to walk out. It is recommended by our DNR that ice widely accepted as safe for walking is about 4 inches of hard, clear ice. Each chisel has a different weight and sharpness that may indicate safe/unsafe ice per swing and it takes a bit of practice to know your own chisel’s effectiveness.
Next, is a bungee-style ice pick set around your neck — if you fall through the ice, these are essential to helping aid you to safety on slippery ice.
In today’s day and age with the technology of floating ice suits, it makes sense to buy a matching jacket and bib suit if you fish regularly as they are heavily insulated, wind and water resistant, and of course float in the event of falling through the ice. With the amount of companies out there on the market, there is something to fit everyone’s favorite color, style, and comfort to keep you safe when venturing on the ice.
And last but not least, 50 feet of heavy-duty rope and the use of the buddy system is always recommended. In the event of someone falling through, it is imperative to have someone with you who can call for emergency services, because hypothermia can take effect within minutes if wet to the bone.
While it is important to keep safety in mind and only venture out when taking the proper safety measures, first ice can bring some of the best fishing of the entire year. Fish haven’t seen a lure or decoy in over a month and are susceptible to being caught or speared in high numbers. If spearing, look to the outside edge of shallow weeds or where sand, rock, or gravel cross paths and you will be sure to see some pike and walleye cruising for an easy meal.
If fishing with rod and reel, set tip-ups or jig near underwater drop-offs close to deep water around early or late in the day and you’ll be sure to find a few for the pan. Walleyes can’t resist a spoon bait tipped with a minnow head or a plain hook and minnow one foot off the bottom.
When looking for panfish on deep lakes, you’ll want to set up in deep water out away from a weed-filled bay. Perch, bluegills, and crappies will often school together in water between 20-30 feet on most lakes around first ice. It is important to respect the resource as fish are susceptible to over harvest this time of year when they are grouped in large numbers.
If you’re fishing a shallow lake, look for any standing weeds next to the deepest water on the lake and stay quiet. These fish can be spooky in shallow water. My go-to is a small jig with a light piece of artificial bait, wax worm, or crappie minnow to bring home some fresh panfish.
If you have any specific questions or interest in getting involved with fishing this coming winter, check out the MLB DNR’s Facebook page or call the main office for updates on spearing house use and local safe ice conditions.
Stay warm, stay safe, and good luck on the ice.
