Warm December Means Thin Ice

(KNSI) – The abnormally warm December means inconsistent, or nonexistent, ice on area lakes and rivers according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Lisa Dugan, Boat and Water Safety Outreach Coordinator for the Minnesota DNR, tells KNSI ice fishermen may have to wait a little longer to get on the ice this year.

“We’ve had rain and snow and fluctuating temperatures. All of that has affected the ice making and it’s impacted the ice that has already formed. I feel like we’re starting over right now. We need some really good days of consistently cold, below-freezing temperatures. Hopefully, we can get that nice, new, clear solid ice that you want to see.”

Dugan also mentioned that ice is never 100% safe, and a life jacket is one of the most important things to wear when venturing out.

“It’s not, you know, the first thing that you think of when you’re either going on ice skating or ice fishing. The life jacket is usually in with your summer gear. But we’ve had so many advances in the equipment that we have choices to wear, there’s buoyant gear, there are float coats, and if nothing else, put a lifejacket underneath. It’s really one piece of equipment that can help keep your head above water should you fall through”

Dugan mentions the best way to check the ice on your favorite lake is to call a local expert, like a resort, and ask about current ice conditions.

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