Signs are posted in Lockport and Selkirk warning people of dangerous ice conditions.
It’s time to pull off the ice and reel in your rods. Ice fishing season is coming to a close.
With open water and ice blocks piling up, warning signs in the Selkirk area are posted along the waterfront and on the bridges over the Red River, telling people to stay off the once frozen, but now quickly melting, river ice.
Known for its great channel catfish, the river waters in and around Selkirk attract fishers to these shores all year long. Yet, despite the unsafe conditions that are now present on waterways in Selkirk and in Lockport , many people continue to walk on the ice and venture out to their tents to fish.
Despite dangerous ice conditions, people are still tempting fate.
Dangerous ice conditions didn’t deter several people who continued to fish near the rapid falling water at the locks of the Lockport Bridge, while others had their tents and trucks out on the ice. Officials warn that the risk to life, limb and wallet are significant, considering how easily a tent, truck or person could fall into the frigid waters.
At the end of the day, two remaining fishing tents at the Lockport Bridge were dismantled by fishers who reluctantly packed up and pulled away, knowing this may be their last time to fish before the ice thaws.
A few others remained with their augers in hand near the shoreline, drilling into the ice on their continuing quest to catch the big one. Their proximity to the water is not considered safe for this time of year, according to officials.
Aside from overly motivated fishers, river watchers are also attracted by the beauty of the ice piling up and open water all around. While there may be a temptation to go and take a closer look, it is best for the safety of all adults, children and pets to respect the warning signs and stay off the ice.
Danger signs on bridge warn of open water below.
All photos by Marie LeBlanc
