(Lewis) The recent blast of arctic air is growing ice on lakes and ponds over much of Iowa. Anglers are ready to get out for the popular early ice fishing season.
The DNR recommends a minimum of four inches of clear ice for fishing and at least five inches for snowmobiles and ATVs.
Iowa DNR Fisheries Biologist Bryan Hayes says, “The DNR will start by saying ice is never 100% safe. Remember that it is not 100% safe, it doesn’t matter how cold it has been. The ice on a water body is not necessarily going to be uniform.”
As you go out, drill holes every six to ten feet. “Cautiously work our way out. What we are looking for is four inches of good clear ice. These temperatures that are forecasted are going to bring that clear ice and that’s the strongest ice.”
A blanket of snow on top of an ice-covered lake insulates the ice, slowing the growth of ice and hiding potential hazards or weak spots. River ice is 15 percent weaker than lake ice. Ice with a bluish color is safer than clear ice. Avoid slushy or honey-combed ice and stay away from dark spots on the ice. Don’t walk into areas where the snow cover looks discolored.
