We heard from Iowa DNR Information Specialist Mick Klemesrud earlier this week about ice fishing safety as we fast approach the cold winter months.

Our local lakes and ponds will soon be completely frozen over, and while Klemesrud is quick to use the coined phrase that “no ice is safe ice,” he is also a big fan of the activity… as are many other Iowans.

“We’ve got about 35,000 (people) or so… about 10% of our licensed anglers ice fish, which is about 35,000 (people).  It is a fun activity, and if you’ve never really gone ice fishing, it is really inexpensive to get into.  It is something that if anybody is interested, I really recommend taking it up.”

Because of advancing technology and the fact it is becoming a more social activity, Klemesrud actually believes ice fishing is safer than ever… as long as those who participate have the right equipment on hand.

Klemesrud mentioned having a spud bar as the most essential piece of equipment for preventing an ice fishing accident, but he also recommends that local ice fisherman have safety spikes ready all times in case you do fall through the ice and find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.