Have fun, be safe while on the ice
Anglers urged to use caution as ice fishing season kicks into high gear

As the ice thickens on Ontario lakes and winter fishing enthusiasts spread out across the province, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.) and the Ontario Conservation Officers Association (OCOA) remind anglers to ensure that conditions are safe before venturing out.

The organizers of Catch Fishing and Canada’s annual National Fishing Week are encouraging Ontario families to bundle up and “catch a memory” during the Ontario Family Fishing Weekend, February 13th to 15th, 2010.

For three days – Saturday, Sunday and including Ontario’s Family Day on Monday February 15th – Canadian residents will take part in this great heritage activity without the need of a fishing licence. Various family fishing events related to Family Fishing Weekend will be taking place across the province, encouraging families to enjoy the benefits of recreational winter fishing.

"Winter fishing is a terrific way to spend time in the outdoors, but ice safety should be the top priority for all anglers," said Lezlie Goodwin, O.F.A.H. Communications Coordinator. "Practicing some simple safety measures could save your life. This is particularly important in the Kawarthas, where anglers are enjoying ice fishing for the first time in 80 years, and are still getting accustomed to reading local conditions."

"Conservation officers across Ontario regularly come across groups or individuals who are ill-equipped should trouble occur," said OCOA President and Conservation Officer Dan VanExan. "We strongly encourage everyone out on the ice to make sure someone knows where you are at all times and what time you expect to return. Should an accident occur, that critical information could greatly increase your chance of rescue and survival."

The O.F.A.H. reminds anglers to carry all valid fishing, snowmobile and ATV licenses with them at all times. Anglers should also be sure to review the 2010 Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary, available online and at MNR offices and license retailers.

Ice safety tips:

Publishers Note: Additional information on winter fishing north of Toronto can be found at Ice Fishing Getaway Packages North of Toronto, Fishing Stories, and February Family Day Weekend providing additonal links to fun activities for kids north of Toronto February 12-15, 2010 Family Day Weekend.