Ice Fishing is a Great Winter Activity if You Keep it Safe

Photos courtesy of the author.

Spending time outdoors is a great way to relax, regroup, and reward yourself with connection to mother earth. Ice fishing is a great way to connect with nature while she is taking a break from the summer temperatures. Thousands of Illinoisians venture out onto the ice each year to enjoy the excitement of fishing.

As the fall hunting and trapping season comes to an end and that gear is stored away for the winter, the ice fishing gear takes its place in the field. Locating appropriate and safe spots for a day of ice fishing can be as simple as going out where others are fishing. A call to your local bait shop may help you determine what spots in the area have the appropriate ice cover and thickness recommended thickness for safe access. Verify that the conditions of the ice are safe using the thickness safety guidelines at I Fish Illinois.

Safety is essential to ensure you maximize the smiles while chasing the farm pond bluegill or Lake Michigan yellow perch. Before you enter the ice and if required, purchase a valid sport fishing license online or at your local point of sale vender. Consider your choice of bait and or jigs. Remember there isn’t much of an opportunity to cast while fishing through a hole in the ice so be sure to check out the latest options at your local retailer.

As with any outdoor sport, develop an understanding for the gear—warm clothing, fishing poles or tip-ups, a bucket to sit on and safety equipment—that is typically used for ice fishing. Learn more at I Fish Illinois.

Ice fishing can be a great activity for the whole family. Check out the “Introducing Youth to Ice Fishing” ) article on OutdoorIllinois Journal.

Safety Precautions

Ice fishing is an enjoyable outdoor activity, but it demands specific safety precautions due to the cold and potentially unsafe conditions. Before you consider heading out, review the I Fish Illinois website section on Ice Fishing Safety and watch the video for getting out of the ice. Below is a summary of essential safety measures and equipment for ice fishing:

• First and foremost, let someone know where you are going and when you will be back. If the unforeseen happens, having a plan or knowing that someone knows where to look for you may result in a warm blanket arriving sooner.
• Ice Picks or Ice Awls or Rope: Ice picks and awls are handheld tools that have sharp points and are designed to help you pull yourself out of the water in case of falling through the ice. Keep them around your neck or within easy reach. Carrying a rope with you also may be valuable if a rescue is necessary.
• Use a Sled: Including a sled in your ice fishing plan will help you haul your gear to your spot on the lake, but it also can be used in rescues.
• Personal Floatation Device (PFD): Just like on a boat, wearing a PFD is crucial for safety on the ice, particularly in areas where you are uncertain of ice thickness. It serves to keep you buoyant in case of an emergency.
• Ice Auger: An ice auger is necessary for drilling holes in the ice for fishing. Ensure the drill is in good working order and always check the ice thickness before drilling. Handheld drills work fine; gas or electric drills can save you sometime.
• Ice Cleats for your Boots: These provide traction on the ice, minimizing the risk of slips and falls, especially on smooth or uneven surfaces.
• Warm Clothing: Dress in layers to stay warm in cold conditions, including waterproof and windproof outer layers. Insulated boots, gloves and a hat are also essential. Try not to have any exposed skin to the elements.
• Ice Shelter or Windbreak: Some like a bright sunny day connecting with nature, others enjoy time in the shanty. A shelter provides protection from the wind and cold, offering a warm place for breaks during your ice fishing excursion.
• Ice Chisel: Use an ice chisel, or a long, sturdy stick, to assess ice thickness as you move across the frozen surface. Clear, thicker ice is generally safer than cloudy or thinner ice.
• Communication Device: Carry a fully charged cell phone, two-way radio, or another communication device for emergency situations. Remember your electronics don’t last as long while in the cold environment. Be sure to check the battery level. Consider a waterproof case for your cell phone, or at a minimum store it in a zipper storage bag to help keep it dry.
• First Aid Kit: Carry with you a basic first aid kit packed with bandages, antiseptic and necessary medications.
• Emergency Blanket: In unforeseen circumstances, an emergency blanket can provide additional warmth. They are compact and can be easily stored.
• Compass or GPS: Use these tools for safe navigation, especially in areas with poor visibility or changing weather conditions. Blowing wind may cover your footprints with snow, making it difficult to track back to your original location.
• Check Weather Conditions: Stay updated on the weather forecast and be mindful of changing conditions. Avoid venturing onto the ice during thaw periods or unpredictable weather. If available in your area, adhere to local guidelines and regulations for ice fishing safety.
• Consider Leaving the Family Pet at Home: A wandering pet may venture into a dangerous area and prompt you to initiate a rescue. If a well-trained companion is going to accompany you, have a secure method of control, and pack the proper cold weather gear for your furry friend.
• Develop an Exit Plan: Lake Michigan has wonderful ice fishing opportunities, but some exits in harbors and inlets where a sturdy sea wall exists that lacks ladders or other means of egress. Be aware of your surroundings. As you proceed farther onto the ice have an exit plan in place should an unfortunate event develop.

What if You Do Fall Through the Ice?

With thousands of safe fishing expeditions there is always a chance of falling through the ice. I was just talking to an experienced ice fisherman the other day and he told me of a surprising story where he and a close senior friend of his fell through the ice. Both had researched what to do in this unfortunate situation and, thanks to their research and hard work, both were able to make it out safely. Here are a few tips.

• Stay Calm: Try to stay calm and focus on your breathing. Panic can lead to exhaustion and make it more challenging to think clearly.
• Don’t Remove Winter Clothing: Winter clothing can provide some insulation, even when wet. Keep your winter gear on to help retain body heat.
• Turn Toward the Direction You Came From: This is likely the strongest ice, as it supported your weight before. Extend your arms onto the unbroken ice to distribute your weight.
• Kick Your Legs: Use your legs to push yourself up onto the ice. If the ice is thick enough, roll away from the hole to distribute your weight.
• Use Ice Picks or Your Hands: If you have ice picks or your hands are free, use them to grip the ice and pull yourself up. Wiggle onto the ice by kicking your feet.
• Roll to Safety: Once you are back on the ice, roll away from the hole to ensure you are on more stable ice. Crawl on your stomach or roll to avoid putting too much weight in one place.
• Crawl to Safety: Crawl on your stomach or low to the ground to distribute your weight as you move away from the weakened ice.
• Call for Help: Use a cell phone, two-way radio, or another communication device you have to call for help as soon as possible.
• Get Warm Quickly: Once you’re on solid ground, it’s crucial to get warm as quickly as possible. Change into dry clothing if available and seek shelter.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, it’s important to seek medical attention. Hypothermia can set in quickly, and a medical evaluation is necessary to ensure your well-being

Don’t let the thought of mishaps prevent you from enjoying the wonders of ice fishing, just be prepared. I bring some heavy duty matches and a wind proof lighter to start a fire as a last resort. Stay safe while on the ice and embrace the wonders beneath it.

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Sergeant Steven Beltran has been an officer since 2000 and currently works in northwest Illinois. He welcomes your questions and loves to share in his passion for protecting Illinois resources. He can be reached at steven.beltran@illinois.gov or (815) 218-4165.