WYOMING — Ice is beginning to form on lakes and reservoirs throughout the state, and the Wyoming Division of State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails is reminding anglers to practice caution while fishing and recreating.
Wyoming State Parks reminds recreationists that ice is always in a state of flux and driving any kind of motorized vehicle, and in some instances even walking on the ice, is risky. While recreating on the ice, people should be aware that the changing thickness of ice can pose various risks.
- Ice less than four inches — stay off
- Four inches — allows for one person with gear
- Five inches — a small group spread out
- Six inches — one snowmobile, ATV, UTV
- 9 to 12 inches — cars
- 12 to 15 inches — pickups
Pressure ridges can cause thin patches in the ice that cannot support a car, pickup, ATV or possibly human body weight, especially on ice that is only a few days old. Those on the ice should also be aware of what kind of ice they are walking on. Clear ice is more stable and can hold more weight than cloudy ice.
Anglers are also reminded that they are responsible for the cost of removing their vehicle from a lake or reservoir in Wyoming’s State Parks. All activities on the ice pose an inherent risk. Remember to practice safety and have dry clothes and emergency supplies in your vehicle.
