Winter Sport Fishing Season Opens

·         Anglers have a choice of more locations to enjoy fishing in Nova Scotia during the winter season. Nova Scotia Fishing areas are expanding, having more lakes open for rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, chain pickerel or perch.

·         The Cape Breton Highlands Special Trout Management Area will be open for brook trout angling this winter and in the tidal waters of the Brasd’Or Lakes, anglers may now fish for brown trout and rainbow trout.

·         A 2012 general fishing license is required to fish. Can be purchased at the Department of Natural Resources offices.

·         Licences are valid until March 31, 2013

·         For more information visit www.gov.ns.ca/fish/sportfishing/angling/winterangling.shtml.

If you Fall Through The Ice

·         Get off your snowmobile or four wheeler immediately.

·         If you fall through the ice and end up in the water, go to the edge and break your way to ice that will hold your weight. Time is of the essence.

·         Crawl on your belly and get up on ice, spreading your weight as far as possible. Use caution and grab on to anything that is close for added traction.

·         Immediately find a warm place to remove wet clothes. Go to shore and quickly building a fire. Hypothermia can set in quickly and leave you helpless. Get help as fast as you can, your life will depend how fast you take control!

Ice Fishing Safety Tips

Fishing

 Outdoor activities usually take place near the ice. As much as we love to skate and fish, ice over lake water can have some serious dangers.

Guidelines when playing near or on the ice:

·         Don’t walk on ice that is less than 10 cm (4 in.) thick. Do not drive on any ice that is less than 30 cm (12 in.) thick.

·         Stay clear of ice near the inlet streams. Be cautious on river Ice can vary in thickness and strength from area to area because of temperature. Do not park near another vehicle on the ice. Ice can crack with the weight of people and vehicles keep an eye on ice and snow conditions. If the weather has been warm there may be hidden slush traps that can trap a vehicle.

·         When travelling in a vehicle on lake ice, you shood keep your seat belts off, and open your window a crack, or half unlatch your door. Keep a shovel and tow rope in your vehicle.

·         Carry waterproof matches and spikes in your pocket, also a bit of rope to help you get out of the water.