OCR Text |
Show v " ' 1 ' ''' " Hie dawning of a new year tomorrow brings with it the reality of a new winter recreational experience in Garfield County, the opening of ice fishing at Pangultch Lake. Excited to promote the newest winter sport is Keo Thompson, manager of Deer Trail Lodge at the lake who displays the ice fishing stamp required . UTAH. PRESS ASSN 467 E 300 S SLC, UT B4111 Ice Fishing Begins As New Garfield Co. Winter Sport 1 This year's year-round opening of the Panguitch Lake Road and its connecting road with Brian Head ski resort will provide a new winter experience for local residents and tourists as 1982 takes off. The Utah Wildlife Board has officially opened Panguitch Lake to a ten-week ice fishing season starting January 1 through March 15, 1982. According to Norman McKee, Division of Wildlife Resources Conservation officer, all fishing regulations are in effect during the ice fishing season. In addition, several other regulations are necessary to cover the special requirements of ice fishing: First, fishing may only take place through the ice. If open water areas occur, they are off limits. Second, a special Panguitch Lake ice fishing stamp is required of all fishermen, regardless of age or residency. This stamp must be purchased in addition to the 1982 fishing or combination license required of all anglers 12 years of age or older. Third, the daily bag and possesion limit is five trout. Juveniles may also possess five fish. As noted, juveniles also must have an ice fishing stamp. Most local license agents have not yet ordered 1982 licenses, McKee said. Early season fishermen may purchase their licenses and or stamp at Henrie's Western Auto in Panguitch, or Deer Trail Lodge or Rustic Lodge at Panguitch Lake where new proclamations are also available. McKee said that aue to warm fall weather, ice conditions at the lake are not as good as usual. However, the lake is now frozen over and is safe in most areas. Ice less than three inches thick should be avoided. Although there are no regulations about the size of the ice fishing hole, wise anglers, McKee said, will keep the hole diameter 12 inches or less. Larger holes may pose a danger to unwary fishermen as they thinly freeze over for a day or two. Ice augers and picks work best for making a hole. Best fishing is expected to be in 10 or 15 feet of water. As the bottom water is warm, most fish will congregate near the bottom. Most baits, jigs, and ice flies, if properly used should produce results, he said. The Division of Wildlife Resources is very Interested in the results of this special season. Therefore, McKee will be making regular creel census and license checks at the lake. He warns that hypothermia can be a killer of winter outdoor rccreationists and advises fishermen to dress warmly for their outing. |