As cold temperatures continue, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) encourages eager ice anglers to be aware of the conditions before ice fishing on Ohio waters. While Ohio offers an unparalleled fishing experience, it’s important to remember that no ice is safe ice, and any ice that is covered by snow should always be presumed to be unsafe.
Ice Fishing Safety Tips
- Contact a local ice guide or bait shop to ask about ice conditions.
- Adequately check the ice thickness before traveling onto the ice.
- Dress properly for conditions, which should include wearing an approved life vest.
- Always fish with a partner or in an area where several other anglers are present.
- Let others know exactly where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Put a cellphone in a plastic bag to protect it from moisture so it does not get wet.
- Make sure to have a valid Ohio fishing license. Licenses expire on Feb. 28 so anglers should purchase a new license by March 1.
Staying Safe and Warm While Enjoying the Winter Weather
- Come prepared, be aware and know when to go indoors.
- Dress warmly in layers: Start with insulating fabrics and use a final layer of protective fabrics.
- Keep your head, neck and hands covered, and wear waterproof boots.
For more information about dressing for the winter weather in Ohio, go to parks.ohiodnr.gov/winter. To learn more about ice fishing in Ohio, go to wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/fishing/ice-fishing.
ODNR also licenses fishing guides in the Lake Erie region. For people interested in going on an ice fishing trip with a guide, go to wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/fishing/ice-fishing/ohio-ice-fishing-guides.
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