With winter right around the corner, lakes and other bodies of water will begin to freeze, getting many fishing enthusiasts excited for ice fishing! Ice fishing is not only a good way to pass time during the winter months and get a fresh-caught dinner, but it is also a great way to get out of the house and enjoy some fresh air. However, ice fishing can be dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken.

Before heading out to the ice, be sure to follow these tips for staying safe on the ice!

Wear Warm Clothing

It’s cold on the ice, so be sure to wear clothing that is warm enough. Nothing can ruin a fun fishing day like hypothermia or frostbite. At the minimum, you should have a three-layer combination: a lightweight and absorbent base layer (thermals), a wool or synthetic mid layer (sweater), and a waterproof shell (winter jacket).

Get A Satellite Communication Device

If you are going ice fishing in the wilderness, chances are you will not have as great of cell phone reception. To ensure you’ll always be able to reach someone in an emergency, it is wise to rent or buy a satellite phone. Sat phones will work anywhere, even in fishing pond deep in the wilderness of Montana.

Stay Dry

When out on the ice it is important to stay as dry as possible. Believe it or not, hypothermia can occur in temperatures as warm as 60 degrees Fahrenheit when you are wet — something you don’t want to risk. Wear waterproof footwear and try to avoid splashes near the fishing hole. It’s always wise to pack a couple of towels to dry your hands and equipment if needed.

Don’t Forget Sunglasses

Even in the winter, it is important to wear proper sunglasses when on the ice. Avoid snow-blindness by wearing polarized, UV-resistant sunglasses. Snow-blindness can be a painful, debilitating condition which cannot only ruin your day of ice fishing, but it can also leave you helpless and stranded on the ice.

Above all, using common sense will help keep you safe during the ice fishing season. While it is a safe and enjoyable activity, mindless mistakes or going unprepared can prove to be costly. Always act deliberately and use caution to ensure you have a great day on the ice.

Make sure you have a reliable communication device while on the ice, buy or rent a sat phone today!