There’s no such thing as safe ice. That’s what the DNR wants to stress as people set up their ice fishing spots during these colder months.
They also say that just because one lake has enough ice to walk on doesn’t necessarily mean a lake close by will have those same conditions.
It’s also never a bad idea to have a helping hand along, too.
“One of the best things you can do is take somebody out fishing with you,” says Michigan DNR Law Enforcement Division Lt. Joe Molnar. “Having someone that is able to throw you a rope or reach with an auger or a spud, something to help pull you out of the water, is probably one of the best things you can have. Having someone, if nothing else, that they can call 911 to get emergency personnel out to help rescue you.”
While there is no thickness to the ice as “safe,” it’s important to check the thickness before venturing out.