Anglers tempted by early ice fishing prospects urged to use

[Fishing Forum Admin]

Anglers tempted by early ice fishing prospects urged to use …
Detroit Free Press - Detroit,MI,USA

MARQUETTE, Mich. (AP) – The early winter ice spreading across northern Michigan’s inland lakes is tempting some anglers, but eager ice fishing enthusiasts are being urged to use caution.

“The early season and the end of the season are always the best fishing, but it’s also a little more dangerous. We try to warn them to be careful,” Ernie Lindsey, co-owner of Wilderness Sports in Ishpeming, told The Mining Journal for a Thursday story.

Veteran ice anglers have reported 6 to 8 inches of ice supporting a half-dozen or so fishing shanties on Lake Independence in Big Bay, and Negaunee’s Teal Lake has had just more 8 inches, attracting a constant flux of fishermen.

While that’s enough ice to support a person, the United States Coast Guard says vehicles should not yet be out on the lakes.

“Clear blue ice over 3 inches thick can support one person,” said USCG Boatswains Mate Jeffery Ritter. “For any type of vehicle we suggest waiting until at least 12 inches of clear ice are established

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