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Iowa DNR urges winter fun but also caution on iced-over ponds and rivers

Iowa DNR urges winter fun but also caution on iced-over ponds and rivers
Ice fishing is a fun winter sport, but be aware of ice conditions and don’t take risks, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources urges. Press file photo of ice fishing on Rudd Lake by Bob Steenson
By Bob Steenson, bsteenson@charlescitypress.com

With the recent wide swings in temperature, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources urged people to be careful when venturing out on ice for outdoor activities.

“If you’ve never gone ice fishing before, it’s time to get in on the fun,” the DNR said. “Iowa lakes are full of bluegills, crappies and other panfish. Lakes in northern Iowa will also have yellow perch and walleye.”

The department recommended checking its weekly fishing report, available at www.iowadnr.gov/Fishing, for updates on ice conditions, but even then cautioned that ice conditions can change quickly and people should be cautious.

“Ice forms at different rates depending upon the size and depth of each unique lake or river. Once frozen, conditions change constantly and ice thickness can vary,” the DNR said. “Dress warmly, have fun, and stay safe on the ice this winter.”

The DNR offered these tips for safety on the ice:

• No ice is 100% safe.

• At a minimum, four inches of clear ice is recommended for fishing.

• New ice is usually stronger than old ice.

• Don’t go out alone – if the worst should happen, have someone there to call for help or to help rescue.

• Let someone know where you are going and when you will return.

• Check ice thickness as you move out on to the ice. There could be pockets of thin ice or places where ice recently formed.

• Avoid off-colored snow or ice. It is usually a sign of weakness.

• The insulating effect of snow slows down the freezing process.

• Trust your instincts – if the ice does not look right, don’t go out.

• Bring along these basic items to help keep you safe: hand warmers, ice cleats to help prevent falls, ice picks on a string worn around your neck to help you crawl out of the water if you fall in, a life jacket, a floating safety rope, a whistle to call for help, a basic first aid kit and extra dry clothes including a pair of gloves.

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