As temperatures continue to fall, anglers of all ages may find themselves with the opportunity to ice-fish.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources says thousands of Hoosiers go ice-fishing each year and are offering some tips to ensure safety.
The state reports individuals who have fallen through the ice every year because of fishing, ice-skating, or other sporting activities.
For those fishing, the DNR recommends drilling a test hole near the shoreline to test the thickness of the ice. Educating yourself on different ice thicknesses can also help ensure safety while fishing.
While many area firefighters have been trained to handle an individual falling through the ice, it is recommended to wear a life-jacket to prevent drowning in the case of hypothermia or other health issues caused by the cold.
Indiana law limits fishing hole sizes to 12 inches in diameter.
