Hockey is not the only favorite ice activity this time of year in West Central Saskatchewan.
As the winter season gets underway, many are preparing to partake in one of Saskatchewan's most loved past-times: ice-fishing.
Rich Hildebrand -a Conservation Officer with the Saskatchewan Environment Ministry - has provided some helpful reminders to make the season to ice-fish one to remember.
When fishing it is necessary to watch for potential hazards such as ice falls, open waters and beaver dams.
Hildebrand describes 'blue' ice as being at least 10 cm (4 in) thick, and is the safest colour of ice to tread upon.
'White' or 'opaque' ice is a mixture of ice, snow and bubbles, producing a medium thickness and poses a potential hazard.
When traveling on ice by snowmobile or ATV, the ice is safest at a 20 centimetres (8 inches) thick and when driving a truck across, at least 12 inches thick.
Fishers are able to acquire the Saskatchewan Angler's license at any Environment Ministry. The license can also be applied for and acquired online at their website:
http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/fishing
Thu, Apr 25, 9:30 AM
