“Thick and blue, tried and true.  Thin and crispy, way too risky”

Before stepping on the ice check for a bluish color and that it is at least 4-6 inches thick.  Even if the weather has been below freezing for several days, don’t guess about ice thickness.  Check the ice in several places by using an auger, chisel or axe to make test holes beginning at the shore and continuing as you move out.  If ice at the shoreline is cracked or squishy, stay off.  Don’t go on the ice during thaws.  Watch out for thin, clear or honeycomb shaped ice. Dark snow and dark ice are other signs of weak spots. Choose small sheltered bodies of water.  Rivers and lakes are prone to wind and wave action, which can break ice up quickly.  Avoid areas with currents, around bridges, pressure ridges or inlets and outlets.

If you don’t know, don’t go!

If you break through the ice, don’t panic. Don’t try to climb out, you will probably break the ice again. Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice.  Roll to safety.  To help someone who has fallen in, lie down flat and reach with a branch, rope or form a human chain. Do not stand! After securing the victim, wiggle backwards to the solid ice.  Seek treatment immediately for hypothermia (cold exposure).

Ice Thickness                                        Permissible Load (clear, blue lake ice)
2 inches                                                         one person on foot
3 inches                                                         group of people walking single file
7 1/2 inches                                                passenger car (2 ton gross)
8 inches                                                         light truck (2 1/2 ton gross)
10 inches                                                      medium truck ( 3 1/2 ton gross)
12 inches                                                      heavy truck (7-8 ton gross)
15 inches                                                      heavy truck (10 ton gross)
20 inches                                                     25 tons
25 inches                                                     45 tons
30 inches                                                     70 tons
36 inches                                                      110 tons
This table is for clear, blue ice on lakes.  Reduce strength values by 15% for clear blue river ice.  Slush ice is only half the strength of blue ice.  This table does not apply for parked loads.  This reference chart was published by the Forest Resources Association.  They are merely guidelines.

Personally, I don’t suggest anyone step foot on any less than 4-5 inches.

When venturing out during the winter months remember to wear a hat and cover your face and neck.  Most of your body heat is lost through your head and neck.  Dress in layers of wool, silks or synthetics as they will keep you warm even when wet.  Do not wear cotton.  Insulated, waterproof boots, gloves and a windbreaker are also very important.  Bring along some extra clothing.  Also, remember it is always best to head out with a partner rather than alone.  Make sure you leave information about your plans for the day and when you intend to return.

Lastly, be courteous when you’re out fishing or recreating on the ice.  Use public access to ponds or ask permission to cross private land.  Don’t crowd other anglers.  Be sure the clean up your fishing area when you leave.  Litter will wash ashore in the spring polluting the water and endangering people and wildlife.  Always check the current regulations for the body of water you are fishing (www.mefishwildlife.com).

So far this winter Mother Nature hasn’t quite come through for us but please be patient and always be safe and smart in the Maine outdoors.

Some good ice!

I have been ice fishing since I was  4 years old.  My Dad was passionate about ice fishing and he often took me along.  He taught me angling skills, pulled me out and dried me off when I occasionally slipped a leg into an empty fishing hole (while trying to hide his panic), made Jiffy Pop for me on the stove in the ice shack, proudly looked on when I successfully caught fish and encouraged me to be patient on the days I did not. Most importantly he taught me to appreciate every opportunity I have to enjoy the outdoors in Maine.  Some of the most vivid memories from my childhood are the ones that were made on the ice with my Dad.

I have enjoyed ice fishing since I was a young child

I am so privileged to have a career that allows me to share my love for the outdoors with children and families around the state.  In the past seven years I have certainly learned a lot of lessons when it comes to teaching children to fish both in open water and on the ice. I truly enjoy nothing more than the chance to pass on my love of the sport and I am hopeful that my efforts have made a difference.  I am absolutely certain that the reason I am as active in and connected to the outdoors is because I was introduced to it at such a young age. It has always been part of my life and is as natural to me as breathing. It drives me to work as hard as possible to help parents provide the same opportunity for their young children.

A great day on the ice

I am also honored to have the opportunity to work with talented, passionate and devoted individuals at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife who share my appreciation for Maine’s precious natural resources. Despite the Department’s endless financial struggles and limited resources they all work tirelessly (and with very little appreciation) to do their very best to ensure our fish and wildlife are here for future generations to enjoy.  It is impossible not to be inspired by their dedication.  I am proud to be part of such a wonderful team.

Regional Fisheries Biologist Dave Howatt was on the job today and collected data from a few of the fish I caught.

This year make it your new year’s resolution to take a child fishing.  Ensure that when they are a grown adult that they will still have days when they find themselves running and sliding across the ice at the sight of a flag, their heart racing with excitement, exactly the same way they did when they were a young child.  Make certain that when they are a grown adult that they strive to protect our natural resources and most importantly that they take the time to pass it on.

Happy New Year and happy fishing!

For more information about the Hooked on Fishing Program or about family fishing opportunities in Maine contact Emily MacCabe at emily.maccabe@maine.gov or (207) 462-1017.  

Temperatures are dropping and ice is beginning to form on lakes and ponds in Maine and that means ice fishing season is upon us.  Hopefully the snow will soon begin to fly bringing a whole new set of fun and healthy outdoor activities for families to enjoy during the winter months.  Here is a list of events scheduled for January 2012.  This list will continue to be updated as additional events are scheduled.  In the meantime I better get busy setting up ice fishing traps and fueling up the augers for the Hooked on Fishing program!

First Day Hikes – Multiple Locations
January 1, 2012
A series of hikes are scheduled at Cobscook Bay State Park, Wolfe Neck Woods State Park, Aroostook State Park, and Popham Beach State Park.  This is a great way to enjoy the first day of 2012!

Youth Ice Fishing Derby & Dog Sled Rides – Liberty
Saturday, January 15, 2012 8am-3pm
This learn to fish event will be held at the Lake St. George State Park.  Equipment, bait and instruction is provided as well as the opportunity for dog sled rides!

Horne Pond Ice Fishing Derby – Limington
Saturday, January 21, 2012
This derby benefits the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital, MDIFW’s Hooked on Fishing Program and Ice Fishing 4 a Cause.  This event has both a youth and adult division and there is opportunity for children and families to learn to ice fish.

Winter Family Fun Day – Cobscook Bay State Park
Saturday, January 21, 2012 10am-3pm
Activities include cross country skiing, sliding, snowshoeing, snowmobile tote rides, guided nature walks and a bonfire! Ages 12 and under are free; over 12 years of age is $1.50.  Equipment and instruction is provided.

Maine Youth Fish & Game Youth Learn to Fish Event – Milford
Saturday, January 21, 2012 8am-3pm (February 4 rain date)
This is a learn to ice fish event for children 15 and under.  Lunch and loaner equipment along with bait and instruction is provided at no cost.  Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Phippsburg Sportsmen’s Association Winter Field Day – Phippsburg
Sunday, January 22, 2012
This annual winter field day provides opportunity to learn about some great winter activities such as cross country skiing, dog sledding, snowshoeing/orienteering and more.  This is a free lunch and includes all equipment and instruction.

Crystal Lake Derby – Gray
Saturday, January 28, 2012 7am-2pm
This derby has both an all age and kid’s category.  Tickets for the kid’s event are $5.  There will be a designated area for children to fish who need instruction, loaner equipment and bait.

Moosehead Lake Ice Fishing Derby – Greenville
January 27-29, 2012
This derby allows for single or family entries.  Moosehead Lake is a great place to get away for a family ice fishing adventure!

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife partnered with Kennebec Valley Community Action Program to provide an opportunity for children and families from the area to take part in a fish stocking demonstration and learn to fish event on Friday, May 13 at Hight Pond in Skowhegan.  The event was attended by over 35 children who each received a free fishing pole from the Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs program.

Once it was established where fish come from, the group moved on to help Gene and Kevin Sousa, also from the Embden State Fish Hatchery, stock brook trout into the pond.  Hight Pond is one of the newest youth only fishing ponds in Maine.  The pond was stocked two weeks ago with brook trout so the fish the children added to the water were a bonus.

One by one each child carried a bucket of water with 8-10″ brook trout to the water’s edge where Gene stood by to help them release the fish into the water. Each child couldn’t resist a squeal of excitement as the brook trout raced away into the pond.

Once the fish were stocked and business was taken care of it was time to hand out the free fishing poles, rig them up with hooks, sinkers and bobbers and head back to the pond for some fishing.

I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a beautiful spring day then sharing the opportunity with families to learn more about Maine’s fisheries program and the importance of spending quality time together in our beautiful outdoors.

Directionss: Pineland Farms, Inc

If you have any questions or need more information you can contact me at emily.maccabe@maine.gov or (207) 462-1017.

The Maine Wildlife Park is located in Gray, Maine and is owned and operated by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The park exists to promote an understanding and awareness of the wildlife, conservation and habitat protection programs and projects of MDIF&W.  The park is home to many animals who are either injured, orphaned or human dependent and cannot live in the wild.  Some species you will see at the park include moose, black bear, bobcat, coyote, lynx, white-tailed deer, barred owl, gray fox, bald eagle and more.

The park sees over 100,000 visitors each year and boasts a wide array of fun activities for families who visit.  New this year you can dial in and take a free audio tour of the park’s wildlife exhibits using your personal cell phone.   The park also has six new small mammal exhibits featuring porcupines, fisher, woodchuck, raccoon, skunk and opossum.

A summer series of wildlife exhibits and demonstrations provided for our visitors are offered throughout the season at the Maine Wildlife Park. “Summer Wildlife Days” are held on consecutive weekends through the summer, and are sponsored by the Friends of the Maine Wildlife Park. Presenters featuring a variety of wildlife topics set up their exhibits and demonstrations from roughly 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) on most Saturdays and some full weekends. Visitors are encouraged to stop by, observe, ask questions and even participate in some activities.

A popular and unusual “Night Visit” is scheduled, when the park opens on a moonlight evening for a Saturday, July 16 “All About Owls” Night Visit with the owls of Chewonki: from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The ever-growing and very popular “Halloween Fest” will run on both Friday and Saturday nights this year, October 21 and 22, from 6-9 p.m.

The Maine Wildlife Park Nature Store is full of new wildlife and nature merchandise for all ages; and the Friends of the Maine Wildlife Park “Snack Shack” sells ice cream, soda and light snacks, with all monies raised donated to the Maine Wildlife Park for wildlife exhibit improvements and new construction.

The Maine Wildlife Park has more than 30 species of native wildlife on display, plus wildlife gardens, nature trails, a fish hatchery and other interactive exhibits and displays. The park is open daily from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; visitors must leave the premises by 6 p.m.

Admission to the park is free for ages 3 and under; $5.00 ages 5-12; $7.00 for adults, and $5.00 for seniors. Groups of 15 or more are $3.50 per person. Bring a picnic and spend the day! Family and Community Season Passes are available, and are an incredible bargain for families and groups that visit the park several times over the course of the summer.

The park will be open just in time for school vacation so pack a lunch and plan a day of exploring and learning together.

You can learn more about the Maine Wildlife Park by visiting their website www.mainewildlifepark.com Be sure to become a fan on facebook to get the latest on what the park has to offer!

A Look Into the Maine Wildlife Park

My friend Mike Guarino at Maine Wilderness Tours stopped by the office one day last winter to tell me about his idea for a fun family fishing event in the Belgrade Lakes area.  The mudpuppy ice fishing extravaganza, he said.  I had no idea what a mudpuppy was but his excitement about the event was contagious.  The plans were made and the date was set and then… the ice conditions deteriorated.  Disappointed, Mike had to cancel the event for the season.

But not all was lost.  Last summer Mike hosted a wonderful fly casting event on Great Pond in Belgrade at the Center for All Seasons.  I stopped by, loaned some extra equipment and helped out with instruction.  It was a great event and provided a free opportunity for both parents and children to learn how to fly cast and how to select fly fishing equipment.  I was super excited for the chance to try out a Orvis Helios rod, on loan from Fly Fishing Only in Fairfield.  Sweet!

A couple of weeks ago I heard from Mike again.  He had selected a date and was moving forward with the mudpuppy extravaganza, take two.   This past Sunday families were invited to join Mike and volunteers at the Center for All Seasons on Great Pond to fish for mudpuppies.  Extra equipment was on hand and lots of enthusiasm for fishing the Belgrade Lakes.

Never heard of a mudpuppy?  Neither had I! But here is what I learned: they are aquatic salamanders that are usually found in shallow lakes or streams with slow moving water and rocks to hide under.  They eat small fish and invertebrates and can live up to 20 years.  They are an exotic species that was introduced into Great Pond.

Unfortunately I wasn’t able to make it to the event this year but Mike sent me some photos and said the event was a hit.  Beautiful weather, plenty of fish caught and a great time had by all.  It’s great to see outdoor enthusiasts volunteering their time and energy to share their passion with their communities. I’m looking forward to next year and the mudpuppy extravaganza III.

Check out Mike’s Blog!

The Phippsburg Sportsmen’s Association is hosting their annual “Take a Kid Fishing” derby on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  The derby is open to all legal waters in Sagadahoc County.  Weigh-in is open from noon-4pm at their clubhouse in Phippsburg.

FET, Inc is holding their 12th Annual  Ice Fishing Derby on Little Ossipee Lake in Waterboro on Sunday, February 20, 2011.  The derby raises funds to support the Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs program as well at the MDIFW Regional Fisheries program as well as other local charities.  This derby features a children’s category and equipment, bait and instruction is available for families looking for an opportunity to learn how to ice fish.

A Family Fun Day is scheduled for February 23, 2011 at Ft. McClary State Park from 10am-3pm.  The event will include outdoor games, snowshoeing, maple sugaring, nature walks, winter survival demos, animal tracking and a bonfire.  Lunch is provided! Adults ages 12-64 are $1.50 and all other are free.

Kittery Trading Post is hosting their annual Family Fishing Event at Range Pond State Park on Friday, February 25, 2011 from 8am-noon.  Each child will receive a free ice fishing trap! Bait is provided, holes are pre-drilled and there will be plenty of volunteers on hand to provide instruction.  This event is held in partnership with the Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs Program.

Jack Traps is hosting their annual Youth Fishing Event on Friday, February 25, 2011 from 8am-2pm on Cochnewagon Lake in Monmouth.  This derby is an introduction to ice fishing open to all children twelve and under. Children familiar with ice fishing and those who are not, but are interested, are equally encouraged to participate. All participants must pre-register before February 11, 2011. All participants must arrive dressed in very warm clothing, including boots, hats, and mittens.Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment, ready to fish. There will be some traps and bait on the ice for kids to fish with if they do not have their own.   This event is free to attend!

A Family Fun Day is planned for Saturday, February 26, 2011 at Aroostook State Park from 10am-3pm.  Spend a winter’s day at the park. Activities will include cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating (conditions permitting), snowmobile “tote-rides”, and guided nature interpretive walks.  Equipment and expert instruction will be provided and lunch is included.  All you need is to wear warm winter clothing and want to have fun!  Adults 12 -64 are $1.50; everyone else free.

Several dates are available to participate in a guided snowshoe at the Androscoggin Riverlands State Park and is sponsored by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands and the Androscoggin Land Trust.  Dates available are February 12 – Legends of the Riverlands: Learn about what life used to be like at the Riverlands in the 1800s before it was flooded and join the search for the homestead foundations that still remain in the park. Children can enjoy an educational program, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy longer tours. February 26 – Riverlands Winter Greens: Learn how to identify trees and shrubs and how they provide food and shelter for the animals in the park.Children can enjoy an educational program, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy longer tours. March 12 – Winter Wildlife in the Park: Learn how animals survive in the winter and how to identify animal tracks in the snow! Children can enjoy an educational program, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy longer tours.

Participants should meet at the main entrance of the park, off Center Bridge Road in Turner at 10am.

Have a group that would like to join? Contact Laura Keating at (207) 557-0352 or laura.keating@maine.gov

One of my favorite activities of the day was the snowshoe nature hike.  Children and parents were provided snowshoes and a lesson in how to use them and then headed out for a general nature hike in the snow filled woods behind the Phippsburg Sportsmen’s Association clubhouse.  Everyone had practice looking for signs of wildlife and identifying animal tracks.  Basic survival skills were discussed and how to properly prepare for a trip into the woods.

One of the most exciting events of the day was dog sledding.  Folks from the Maine Chapter of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) came out with their dogs to demonstrate on of the fun activities they do to keep their dogs happy and active.  Each participant had the chance to try a few runs.

Lunch brought a special presentation from Tom Gagne and Larry Barnes about the sport of Falconry.  They brought with them an immature Red-tailed hawk and two Northern Goshawks that they have trained and use for falconry.  It was a very informative and interesting presentation.

Participants had the opportunity to learn about k9 search and rescue techniques and were even given the chance to follow the k9 along on a mock search.  Nordic ski lessons were also offered along with equipmentand a great trail system was setup nearby.

The folks at the Phippsburg Sportsmen’s Association put on a wonderful family day in the Maine outdoors.  I hope to see many more events like this being organized around the state in the future.