Islanders will have a chance to let fresh, cold air clear away the New Year’s Eve cobwebs when the ice fishing season opens New Year’s Day.
The ice fishing season runs from January 1 to March 31, 2008 and includes two bodies of water – O’Keefe Lake and Glenfinnan Lake.
George Webster, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry said today that, although the season has begun, anyone going fishing should be sure to check the safety of ice conditions. Ice should be at least 15 centimetres (six inches) thick where individuals or small groups are fishing and should be at least 25 centimetres thick where snowmobiles, trucks or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are being used.
To ensure a safe fishing experience, the department advises that anglers fish with a friend and that children on the ice should be supervised. Warm clothing, a rescue rope and a personal flotation device should be close at hand for anyone fishing on or near ice.
Islanders are reminded that there is a public safety advisory in place for trout caught from O’Keefe Lake. Mercury levels in some of the lake’s fish can be above recommended guidelines. The Department of Health has advised that children younger than eight years of age and women of childbearing age should avoid eating trout from O’Keefe Lake. Toxic effects from mercury at levels found in O’Keefe Lake do not occur unless the fish is eaten frequently.
Anglers who have a valid 2007 trout fishing licence are free to participate in the winter fishery. Anglers must also have a valid Wildlife Conservation Fund permit. Licences will be available at Access PEI Centres and at selected retailers. Anglers under 16 years of age do not require a licence for the winter fishery.
The public can get more information on the winter angling season by calling the Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division at (902) 368-4683.