Hitting the Ice in Johnson County

Oxford, IA – We've got ice, yes we do!! The winter season is upon us and that means that it's time to hit the ice. Ice fishing is a great winter activity, but ice safety must be the priority of everyone that's heading to the ice. A minimum of four inches of solid ice is the general rule for ice safety. And the lake and ponds at F.W. Kent Park definitely have more than four inches.

If you're ready for some great winter fun the Johnson County Conservation Department has what you need. Come to F.W. Kent Park on January 23rd from 2:30-5 p.m. to learn about one of Iowa's most enjoyable winter sports – ice fishing. County Naturalist Brad Freidhof will teach participants the basics of ice fishing and ice safety. Instruction will also cover equipment needs, fishing techniques and fish identification.

Instruction will begin at the Conservation Education Center at F.W. Kent Park and move onto the ice. Equipment and bait will be limited. Participants are urged to dress for the weather, as it will be extremely cold on the ice, bring something to sit on as well as any ice fishing equipment that may be available to them. F.W. Kent Park is open to ice fishing all winter and has good ice fishing opportunities at the lake and the northerly most ponds near the Conservation Education Center.

Participants should dress for outdoor activity in accordance to the weather, remember to check the wind chill and bring extra clothes if necessary. Hot drinks will be available in the Conservation Education Center allowing people to warm up. For more information about this or other JCCB programs, contact the Johnson County Conservation Department at, (319) 645-1011. The day of the event Brad can be reached by cell phone at (319) 331-7513. All winter programs are weather dependent.

Don't let cabin fever get you down. Learn what to do when Iowa weather takes a turn toward the cold and enjoy the outdoors.