GLASGOW, Mont. (NMB) – As the winter ice recreation season begins, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wants to remind the public that safety is paramount.
When on the ice, anglers and other recreators should be familiar with the water body and pay close attention to changing conditions.
Stay off the ice if you have the slightest doubt about safety.
Blue or clear ice is usually okay. Watch out for opaque, gray, dark or porous spots in the ice that could be weak, soft areas. Ice tends to thin quicker on the shoreline.
The minimum recommended ice thickness is four inches for ice fishing or other on-foot activities, seven inches for snowmobiles or ATVs, 10 inches for a small car, and 12 inches for a truck or SUV. For white ice or “snow ice,” double the minimums.
Never leave children unattended on the ice, and always test the ice ahead of you with an ice spud bar or an auger.
Have a safe, adventurous and successful winter recreating season.
