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Utah Ice Fishing Boom: Safety Paramount

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  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 5:12 GMT by KUTV
      Locales: Utah, UNITED STATES

Beyond the Hole: Ice Fishing Boom Sweeps Utah, Safety Remains Paramount

CURRENT CREEK RESERVOIR & STATEWIDE - As February chills settle over Utah, a growing number of residents are trading ski slopes for frozen surfaces, fueling a boom in ice fishing popularity. While Current Creek Reservoir, conveniently located near Salt Lake City, continues to be a local hotspot, the enthusiasm extends to reservoirs and lakes across the state. However, this surge in participation is accompanied by a critical need for increased safety awareness.

Reports indicate a significant uptick in ice fishing licenses sold by the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR) this season. Factors contributing to this trend include increased leisure time due to evolving work patterns, a desire for outdoor recreation during the pandemic, and, simply, the enduring appeal of a classic winter pastime. Current Creek Reservoir, known for its accessibility and consistent trout and perch populations, is benefiting from this growth.

But enjoying this winter wonderland comes with inherent risks. Ice conditions are notoriously unpredictable, and what appears solid can quickly become treacherous. David Deever, Sportsman's Education Coordinator for the DNR, stresses the importance of constant vigilance. "People are eager to get out there, which is fantastic, but eagerness can't outweigh caution," he explained. "You've got to regularly check the ice thickness. Conditions can change dramatically, even within a single day. Sun exposure, fluctuating temperatures, and even the amount of snow cover all play a role."

Deever elaborated that seemingly benign factors, like a layer of fresh snow, can actually insulate the ice, masking thinner areas or cracks. This creates a false sense of security, leading anglers to venture onto potentially unsafe ice. The DNR recommends a minimum of four inches of clear, solid ice for foot traffic, and at least five to six inches for snowmobiles or ATVs. However, these are minimums and should be considered in conjunction with a thorough assessment of the ice's clarity and condition. Discolored or cloudy ice, or ice with air pockets, is significantly weaker.

At Current Creek, anglers are currently reporting success targeting rainbow trout and perch. Deever advises that the trout are tending to hold deeper in the reservoir, requiring anglers to adjust their tactics. "A lot of the trout are holding down deep, so you'll want to use some jigs and a little bit of bait," he recommends. Small jigs tipped with mealworms, waxworms, or small minnows are proving particularly effective. Perch, generally found closer to the surface, are responding well to small ice flies and jigging spoons.

The popularity of ice fishing isn't just limited to Current Creek. Other popular destinations across Utah include Strawberry Reservoir, Mantua Reservoir, and Echo Reservoir, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. The DNR website provides updated ice reports for several key reservoirs, but these reports should be treated as a general guide, not a guarantee of safety. Anglers are ultimately responsible for assessing the ice conditions themselves.

Beyond checking ice thickness, essential safety gear includes ice picks (worn around the neck to aid self-rescue if you fall through), a length of rope for reaching someone who's fallen, and, crucially, a buddy. Never fish alone. A second person can provide assistance in case of an emergency and can also help assess ice conditions.

The DNR also emphasizes the importance of adhering to all fishing regulations, including license requirements and catch limits. Detailed information on regulations, ice safety tips, and reservoir conditions can be found on the Utah Department of Natural Resources website: [ https://wildlife.utah.gov/ ]. As ice fishing's popularity continues to grow in Utah, prioritizing safety and responsible angling practices will ensure that this cherished winter activity remains enjoyable for years to come.