New York State DEC to ice anglers: Enjoy the ice safely and responsibly
It’s ice season and the New York State DEC is reminding all anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts to mind common sense safety measures before venturing out.
"Winter in New York provides outdoor adventurers with some of the very best opportunities to enjoy New York’s natural resources,” Commissioner Seggos said.
Before leaving shore, ice anglers are advised to check the thickness of ice. Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for anglers accessing ice on foot. However, ice thickness can vary between waterbodies and even within the same waterbody, increasing the need to ensure thickness.
Anglers should be particularly cautious of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice from forming, the DEC says.
Checking the ice can easily be done with an auger or spud bar at various spots.
Local bait and tackle shops are a great source for finding out where there is safe ice and what anglers are catching. In addition, fishing with family and friends is also encouraged for safety.
To protect New York's waters from invasive species and the spread of fish diseases, anglers are advised to take these critical steps when using baitfish while ice fishing:
- Review and follow DEC baitfish regulations;
- Ensure the use of baitfish is permitted in the waterbody by checking the special 'regulations by county' section of the fishing regulations guide;
- Use only certified, disease-free bait fish purchased from a local tackle store (buyers must retain the receipt provided to them while in possession of the baitfish);
- Personally collected bait fish may only be used in the same waterbody from which they were caught; and
- Dump unused baitfish and water in an appropriate location on dry land.
New York State DEC image.
