Author Topic: Ice Fishing Safety  (Read 3657 times)

Offline Bob_D

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Ice Fishing Safety
« on: Oct 29, 2003, 09:29 AM »
Since the season is drawing near, I figured it was a good time to review ice safety. I have several articles on my website that relate to ice safety,ice thickness charts,how ice forms,etc. I hope folks take time to review some of these before the season.

Since I tend to be one of the first on the ice...I figured I would review some things that I do and carry with me.

On thin ice, I never fish alone. And I only fish with someone that I trust my life with....It may just come down to that.

I carry ice picks. They are called "picks of life" for a reason. They are cheap ($5)...get some.
 

I carry a Storm whistle. This sucker is loud even when wet.
 

A change of cloths...If you get wet...you will want to get dry.

Safety rope. I have 100' with a large loop (can easily get around your body) on the end. In that loop I have a small boat fender so it floats and it's easier to throw.

Boots without shoe laces. Can be kicked off to cut down on weight if you go in.

Small life vest. I must admit...I don't wear one too often, but I do listen to my inner voice. One of these days I'm going to buy a S.O.S. Co2 inflating vest.

Finally...If you go through...DON'T PANIC! I know it will be hard, but if you use your head, you will have a lot better chance.

Be safe and stay dry.

Exudedude

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Re:Ice Fishing Safety
« Reply #1 on: Oct 29, 2003, 10:50 AM »
Nice tips... I can tell you from Exp. That the best advise given there was try and stay calm.  Last year I did a not so smart thing.  I went fishing on a warmer spring day, the ice was plenty safe when I got there bright and early but as the day progressed temps climed near 50.  When I headed off the lake I couldn't get back to shore.  I went threw 3 times before I made it to shore.  Probably dang lucky, but I stayed pretty calm till I hit shore.  Then I started to shiver pretty good.  

Get the picks, for sure!!! and stay calm!

Jam_Jam

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Re:Ice Fishing Safety
« Reply #2 on: Oct 29, 2003, 11:04 AM »
...and take the time to drill test holes often!  I never go more than 10' on new ice without drilling and feeling for thickness.

Offline vancouvercanuck

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Re:Ice Fishing Safety
« Reply #3 on: Oct 29, 2003, 11:07 AM »
feeling for thickness.

Just how do you "feel for thickness"?

Jam_Jam

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Re:Ice Fishing Safety
« Reply #4 on: Oct 29, 2003, 11:45 AM »
Ya stick your hand down the hole and feel how thick it is.  I do realize you hate getting your hands wet though so this may not work for you :P

Offline Icenutter

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Re:Ice Fishing Safety
« Reply #5 on: Oct 29, 2003, 12:21 PM »
Ya stick your hand down the hole and feel how thick it is.  I do realize you hate getting your hands wet though so this may not work for you :P

I drill holes every 10 feet or so also and I use the handle of my ice scooper to check thickness instead of my hands.  I also carry 50 foot of rope with a floating cushion attached.  
Bring on the ice!!!!!!!  <br />      

 



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