Most of ice fishing related fatalities are accident related.
That's needs a little more explanation, since there are ATV and sled accidents, vehicle accidents, and simple falling accidents.
People going thru the ice usually comes down to two categories: lack of knowledge and lack of intelligence.
Lack of knowledge means you don't know the water and should do research before hitting the ice and more testing of the ice when you go.
Lack of intelligence means you chose to throw caution to the wind in order to be the first out, get to "your" spot first or see if you can really "walk on water". Basically take too many risks.
Then when it comes to vehicle accidents, the two most common factors are lack of knowledge and being "under the influence".
How many people try to take a short cut instead of following established trails across the ice?
How many people drink on the ice and still claim that "it doesn't affect them"?
I believe that in one New England state with lots of winter activity has at least on snowmobile fatality every year due to OUI while on the ice.
Usually someone partying too hard and decides to race their sled across the lake at night and ends up taking a "Davey Jones" swim.
Hate to sound so negative, but when you see so much stuff happen each and every year, it starts to have some affect.
That's why I NEVER drink when I fish, and I ALWAYS test the ice on first ice on familiar waters and first time on new waters.
I just don't want any surprises except those on the end of my line!
Be safe, be smart and have tons of fun!
