Ice Levels Treacherous

With the recent surge in temperatures in Northeast Montana, ice thickness has decreased dramatically, according to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Service (FWP). Marc Kloker, information and program manager at FWP Region 6, reported that many of the Wardens in the region are reporting poor ice qualities, and that the recommendation is to stay off the ice at Fort Peck. Kloker added most all smaller reservoirs are currently or close to completely thawed at press time.

Kloker said this was especially true near inlets, runoff creeks, edges of the lake and near boat ramps where traffic had corroded the ice. “Ice is especially poor along the shorelines and along points that jut out into the water, as the ice is really thin and/or nonexistent. This is caused by the sun being able to heat up those areas more quickly due to the shallow water and sunlight being absorbed and reflected by the dirt surfaces under the water,” said Kloker.

Kloker wanted to remind anglers and ice enthusiasts recreating on area lakes of the following, “Anglers should be familiar with the water body they plan to fish, or go with someone who knows that water and how ice tends to form and change there. The safest ice anglers are those who pay as much attention to the condition of the ice as they do the fishing conditions.”

If you plan to use the ice for recreation or have questions Kloker is available at 406- 228-3704, 406- 480-9234 or via email at [email protected].