It’s time to get out and go ice fishing

It’s cold, ice has formed on many lakes across the state, and that means it’s time to dust of the ice fishing gear and head out for some time on the hard water.

Ice fishing is a great way to spend time with friends and family. If you’ve never gone ice fishing, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, preparedness is key. Ice fishing gear is a bit different than what you’d use for open-water fishing. You’ll want to be sure you have the correct gear before heading out. Personal safety and comfort should also be on the top of your check list before drilling holes in the ice.

Are you an avid ice angler? If so, please consider taking someone ice fishing who has never been before. And share your fishing stories on social media using #wefishak.

It’s not too early to buy your 2021 fishing license. A fishing license makes a great gift for the holidays. Buy one for yourself, of give the gift of fishing to someone you know. Licenses can be purchased online at www.adfg.alaska.gov/Store.

If you’re active on social media, tag your photos and fishing stories using #wefishak. And be sure to check us out on Instagram @wefishak. You can also follow us on Facebook at ADF&G — wefishak. We also have a YouTube channel where there is a growing collection of fishing-related videos.

While you’re out there targeting the catch of the day, be sure to practice social distancing from any fellow anglers you may encounter and follow the Governor’s heath mandates, which can be found here.

If you have a comment or story ideas for Reel Times, we encourage you to send them our way. You can send comments to ryan.ragan@alaska.gov.

We’ll see you on the water.

Information courtesy of Ryan Ragan, Alaska Department of Fish and Game.