Anglers should take care when going out on ice

Safe ice has been on the minds of many winter anglers the past few days as the arctic chill blew down over northeastern Ohio and visions of walleyes, crappies and bluegills began to crystallize.
By late in the week, none of the area waters were suitable yet for ice fishing. If the weather remains below freezing, the ice on ponds may soon be able to bear the weight of ice fishermen. The area's popular walleye and crappie reservoirs will take a few extra days to freeze up a covering thick enough for fishing.
Before venturing out, be aware that there is no such thing as truly safe ice, save for the cubes in your glass, and even they pose some risk.
Ice that is 4 inches thick is generally considered as the absolute minimum for fishing. Many anglers, however, tiptoe out on thinner ice. They, in my opinion, are foolish. I like the ice to be at least 6 inches.
But even a foot of ice can be treacherous. Pressure ridges can form weak spots. Areas where springs well up also can be troublesome, as the ice over them typically is thinner than nearby ice.
Take precautions
Reservoir ice also is subject to currents and quick changes in the water level, should the lakes' managers decide to run water through the dams. It's pretty unnerving to drill through ice and discover the water is actually several inches below the lid. If you encounter that situation, get back to shore and find another fishing hole.
When the time does arrive when the ice is ready, take a few extra precautions before heading out. One of the best safety tips is to pack a pair of ice picks (screwdrivers also will work).
Keep them in your pocket where they'll be handy if you should happen to break through the ice, and use them to provide grip on the edge of the ice so you can haul yourself out of the water.
Add cleats to your boots. Even if the ice has snow on top, you no doubt will encounter spots out on the lake where the wind has blown away the covering. They are perfect places to take a nasty tumble if you don't have good traction for your feet.
Above all, use good sense. Travel over trails where it's obvious others have preceded you. Avoid the temptation to take alcohol (it's probably illegal, too, depending on the lake). And dress in layers that can be removed if you get too warm after a vigorous walk and drilling multiple holes.
Columbus show coming up
Another opportunity to soak in a bit of cabin-fever elixir is coming up at the Columbus Sports, Vacation & amp; Boat Show, Feb. 8-11, at the Ohio Expo Center in the Ohio State Fairgrounds.
Anglers and boaters will enjoy the numerous exhibits and demonstrations, featuring everything from fishing and hunting gear to adventure destinations.
Pro bass angler Joe Thomas, a Cincinnati native who has earned a fine reputation on the Bassmasters and other tournament trails, will detail his secrets to angling success.
Carp and catfish fans can check out seminars led by Shawn Woerlein and Dale Broughton. Woerlein is from the Carp Anglers Group, while Broughton is a full-time catfish guide who will share information about hooking big Ohio River cats.
Discount coupons can be obtained at www.hartproductions.com. The coupons are worth 2 off the adult admission price. Details about the show's schedule also are published on the Web site.
jwwollitz@aol.com