DEC Urges Ice Anglers and Snowmobilers to Use Caution - A New DEC Press Release

NYSDEC Press Release
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DEC Urges Ice Anglers and Snowmobilers to Use Caution

Dangerous Conditions Reported in the Sturgeon Point Marina Area on Lake Erie

Captain Frank Lauricella of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Police (DEC) today reminded ice anglers and snowmobilers to use extra caution on Lake Erie, especially in the Sturgeon Point Marina area.

"Several local groups have observed dangerous ice conditions, including open waters, in the area of Sturgeon Point Marina and north of the marina," said Captain Lauricella. "The presence of snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be taken as evidence of safe ice conditions. Individuals are strongly encouraged to check ice conditions for themselves and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk."

Four-wheelers have reported becoming stuck in the thick slush and snow cover over the ice. A minimum of three to four inches of solid ice is usually safe for anglers on foot. Testing the thickness of ice can easily be done with an auger or ice spud at various spots.

Ice thickness varies on every body of water or even within the same body of water and anglers should be particularly wary of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice buildup. For more information on ice fishing visit DEC's website.