Free Winter Ice-Fishing Classes Offered

Ice is forming rapidly and will soon offer safe conditions to enjoy ice-fishing. It’s a neat way to have fun with family and friends.  However, there is a lot to learn in order to be safe and successful.  

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s Let’s Go Fishing Program, in partnership with other groups, will be offering several ice-fishing classes open to the public this winter.  The classes are free, but you need to be sure to call ahead to reserve your space. Here is a rundown of the dates and places courses will be available:

1. Fitzwilliam Space Committee - A two-part course on Monday, January 17, 2011, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Saturday, January 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Call (603) 585-2205 for further information.

2. Lebanon Recreation Department - Offering a three-part course on Tuesday, January 18 and 25, 2011, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, January 29th from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. For further information, call: (603)448-5121.

3. Greenland Recreation Department - A one-day workshop on Sunday, January 23, 2011, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.. Contact Cindy Smith at (603) 426-3769 for further information.

4. Riley Brothers Lumber, Milford - Offering a three-part Saturday course on January 29 and February 05, 2011, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on February 12 (time to be determined). Contact Dale Riley, Tuesday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at (603) 673-2987 or evenings at (603) 673-4036.

5. Amoskeag Fishways, Manchester - Offering two-part class on Friday, February 4, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 5, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Contact the Amoskeag Fishways at (603) 626-3474 for more information.

6. Haverhill Recreation Department - Offering a three-course on Thursdays, February 24 and March 3, 2011 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 5, 2011, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For additional information, call (603) 787-6096.

All of the ice-fishing classes include a hands-on indoor session where students learn about ice-fishing equipment, safety and practices, winter ecology of lakes and ponds, plus a field trip where students head out to a local pond and put their newly learned skills to the test.  Classes are open to anyone. However, those 16 years of age or under are encouraged to be accompanied by an adult.

New Hampshire Fish and Game’s “Let’s Go Fishing” program has taught thousands of children and adults to be safe, ethical and successful anglers.  The program is federally funded through the Sport Fish Restoration Program.  Here’s a great opportunity to learn about and become successful in ice-fishing techniques.

Bob Harris can be reached via e-mail at: outwriter2@aol.com

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