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HARRISBURG, Pa. (Jan. 30) – With another round of steady, cold temperatures expected during the next week, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) reminds anglers that ice fishing is a fun winter activity which provides opportunities across the state and that the PFBC’s website has plenty of information to help plan their next trip.
“Ice fishing really becomes a social event because anglers often group their sites around the spots where the fish are schooling and feeding,” said Andy Shiels, PFBC Deputy Director for Field Operations and an avid ice fisherman who frequents Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir in Bald Eagle State Park. “Ice fishing provides an opportunity to catch panfish, trout and larger gamefish such as bass, walleyes and even catfish. In some lakes, some of the best catches of the year are made through the ice.”
“Many times anglers even cook tailgate-type foods to share with their friends and family,” he added.
As always, anglers are reminded to follow ice safety tips and guidelines to ensure they have a safe day.
“Before going onto a frozen lake or pond, it is important to take safety precautions to reduce the risk of falling through the ice,” said Ryan Walt, PFBC Boating and Watercraft Safety Manager. “Remember, anglers take a risk any time they go onto the ice. Knowing how to judge ice conditions will help them make more informed decisions while enjoying their outing.”
Below are safety precautions and tips that anglers should keep in mind:
- A lifejacket or float coat should be worn at all times while on the ice.
- When arriving at the water's edge, visually survey the ice. Look for open water areas, and look for signs of recent changes in water levels. Ice sloping down from the bank because the water level dropped, or wet areas on the ice because the water level rose, can be an indicator of a very dangerous condition.
- Listen for loud cracks or booms coming from the ice. This can indicate deteriorating ice.
- Look for clear blue ice. New ice is stronger than old ice and usually has a blue tint.
- Remember that ice thickness is not consistent.
- Beware of ice around partially submerged objects such as trees, brush, embankments or structures. Ice will not form as quickly where water is shallow or where objects may absorb sunlight.
- Anglers should use an ice staff to probe ahead of them. If the ice staff punches through then the angler should retreat back to shore slowly.
- Anglers should always carry a pair of ice awls – handheld spikes - in the case they do go through the ice so they can self-rescue. Anglers drive the spikes into the ice and pull themselves from the water.
- Never go out on ice that has formed over moving water such as a river or stream.
- Never go out on ice alone.
- Always let someone know your plans and when you expect to return.
To get started ice fishing, individuals should visit the PFBC’s ice/winter fishing webpage. The page includes links to various information, including an ice-thickness chart, a safety checklist, and a video of a PFBC-hosted ice fishing seminar which contains great information on equipment and tactics.
In addition to these “how-to” and safety resources, PFBC Executive Director John Arway provides a special video invitation that underscores the fun of ice fishing and the year-round value of a Pennsylvania fishing license. To see this special video message, follow this link: http://www.fishandboat.com/images/video/ice-fishing-video/ice-fishing.htm.
“Perhaps the best source of information about ice fishing hotspots and activity are the local bait shops nearest the lake or pond you are fishing,” added Shiels. “Live bait is usually included in every ice angler’s supplies so a visit to the local shop can usually get you the bait and tackle you need. You can buy your 2015 license at a reduced rate, get some bait, tips on where to go and have some fun.”
The PFBC announced last fall that it was reducing the price of resident, non-resident and senior resident annual licenses by $1 for the entire 2015 season. The discount is part of a marketing campaign to highlight the sport’s affordability to families and younger audiences and to persuade lapsed anglers to return. It’s being promoted under the slogan “Catch the Value!” (Twitter - #CatchTheValue)
“Ice fishing can be solitary if you are seeking the quiet of nature that only winter can deliver or it can be a social activity that gets you out of the house in the winter months where the fish are just a part of the fun,” said Shiels. “If you ask most people why they ice fish they will probably tell you it is fun and it’s great just to be outdoors.”
More information about PA’s Best Fishing Waters is available at: http://fishandboat.com/PaBestFishing.htm.
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Eric Levis, Press Secretary
717.705.7806 or elevis@pa.gov