Let it Freeze!...Ice Fishing 2013

If there was ever an ice fisherman’s parody of a winter themed song – I’m sure it would go something like this…Let it Freeze, Let it Freeze, Let it Freeze.

Here in southern Ontario, we all know that 2012 was not a great year for those inflicted with the passion of angling through an 8 inch diameter holes cut in the ice.  I count myself among this peculiar but adventurous group of people.  We are outdoor enthusiasts who love the challenge and the lure that comes with the territory of ice fishing.

Yet here we sit once again, gear that has been checked and re-checked again, while above average temperatures, open waters abound, and a weather forecast that seems intent on keeping us on the shoreline…it is enough to keep you awake at night just hoping for Jack Frost to stick around for a while.

My home go-to lake Valens Lake Conservation Area failed to make safe ice in 2012 for the first time on record.  Are these all signs of things to come?  How far north will you have to travel to satisfy that primal urge to be one with nature and wet a line all at the same time?  Only time will tell and we will be there, waiting with baited breath – so to speak.

With dreams of panfish and northern pike swimming in our heads – 2013 just has to produce the hard water we crave and need so we can once again be on top.  The promise of freezing cold nights combined with an official start to the NHL season, are two of the kinds of ice that this Canadian is hoping for under his Christmas tree this year.

Gordon R. Costie

Superintendent

Valens Lake Conservation Area