CARMEL – Overnight temperatures of well below freezing have arrived yet officials are warning the public to stay off the ice.
Authorities in Kent were summoned to a lake in the western section of the town Tuesday where police found an angler.
State Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton issued a warning to those who plan to go fishing: “Put safety first when venturing out this winter. Ice fishing is a great way to get outdoors. As with any activity, practicing safety is key, especially when it comes to recreating on ice. With an earlier than usual start to ice fishing season, I urge anglers to practice extreme caution, especially when ice is only just forming.”
The DEC reminds ice fishing enthusiasts to always be aware of essential safety guidelines and ensure the ice is thick enough before heading out.
The agency notes: “Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for anglers accessing ice on foot. However, ice conditions can vary between water bodies and even within the same water body, increasing the need to ensure adequate ice thickness. Checking the ice can easily be done with an auger or ‘spud bar’ at various locations. Local bait and tackle shops are great resources for finding out where there is safe ice and what anglers are catching.”
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