When to Stop Ice Fishing
By Andy Whitcomb
Mar 01, 2021
An important part of ice fishing is knowing when to stop. Here are some suggestions to help stay safe at the end of ice fishing season.
It might be hard to believe but spring is just around the corner. The return of warmer temperatures means that the best time to ice fish is rapidly nearing an end. And just as there was a time of uncertainty of when to start, there can be an uneasy transition of when to stop ice fishing.
Ice Fishing Safety
Ice fishing safety is always a concern, even during the coldest periods and after achieving how much ice is safe for fishing. However once the warm-up begins, there should be extra precautions because it is well known that “old” ice is weaker than “new” ice.
Ice Fishing Reports
Watch ice fishing reports, especially through social media routes which are updated constantly. Much of the content may cover not only when to ice fish but when to stop ice fishing. Anglers readily share info about ice thickness and possible weak areas, even if they may be a little tight-lipped about the hot bait and exact depth of the fish.
Keeping everyone safe
Keep in mind too that disregarding ice fishing safety is more than just about you. A recent social media post showed a picture of two people who had ventured out on a large shelf of ice on the river. If the ice had cracked, safety of first responders would have been jeopardized too. And it seems each ice fishing season ends with anglers being rescued off an ice flow in Lake Erie.
Is ice fishing safe?
It certainly can be, when all precautions are followed. 5 inches plus of new, clear ice can provide a stable platform for a unique fishing experience, often for large groups of anglers in shanties and huts. But, one of the first signs to stop ice fishing will be the absence of any other anglers on the ice. If there are any other ice fishing “red flags” except for tip-ups, it just isn’t worth it; start prepping for casting again.
