News Release

Ice Fishing Safety

Date: January 27, 2022
Contact: Christy Fleming

LOVELL, WY --It is ice fishing time once again at Bighorn Canyon. Park staff would like to remind visitors and fishermen to use extreme caution while out on the ice. The 2021-2022 winter weather has been inconsistent with well below zero temperatures one day and forty-degree weather with wind the next. This weather pattern doesn’t allow for consistent safe ice growth. Ice builds during colder weather, but warmer weather and high winds can cause the ice to become extremely unstable with stretches of open water.

There are several springs around Horseshoe Bend, Crooked Creek, and up the canyon. These areas often cause weak spots in the ice. If you take children with you, make sure they know the dangers and do not stray far from your fishing area. Fishermen are reminded to take the proper precautions and bring the proper equipment for the conditions, including extra clothing, ice bar, fire starter, ice picks, and rope. As a reminder, all motor vehicles (ex. ORV, 4 wheelers, motorcycles etc.) are prohibited from driving on the beach and on the frozen surface of Bighorn Lake. Regulation reference 36 C.F.R. 4.10(a) Traveling on undesignated road or route. Snowmobile use on the frozen lake surface is prohibited. Snowmobile travel route can be found under 36 C.F.R. 7.92 Bighorn Canyon NRA, special regulations.