RATON, NM – Both lakes at Sugarite Canyon State Park opened recently to ice fishing, ice skating and other activities. Recent cold weather has increased the lakes’ ice depths in excess of the minimum standards according to New Mexico State Parks.
The State Parks Division manages the lakes and surroundings and has the authority to close or restrict access to areas of parks, as well as to restrict, limit or prohibit activities such as ice fishing as conditions require. Such actions are taken in the interest of public safety and resource protection. State officials remind you that you take a risk anytime you go out onto the ice. Before going onto the ice, consider the following safety precautions:
- Don’t fish alone. Before you leave shore, inform someone of your destination and expected time return.
- Lifejackets Save Lives. Always wear a lifejacket (personal flotation device).
- Be aware of and prepared for weather conditions. Dress in layers and wear thermal underwear, fleece or wool, and wind and waterproof outerwear - especially for feet, hands and head. Take extra clothes, food, water, etc.
- Be prepared for emergencies. Carry equipment such as ice picks or awls, rope, and cellular phones. Also pack a first-aid kit and matches or other sources for starting a fire.
- Keep fishing holes small and few. When drilling fishing holes with an ice auger, keep the diameter under eight inches. Bigger holes are not necessary to land fish and can create a safety hazard for others.
- Watch your step. Avoid ice fishing near feeder streams or known springs; brush, logs, plants or docks; multiple ice cracks or ice that is popping or otherwise audible; and dark-colored ice that may be weak.
- Spread out. Too many people congregated in one area may be more than the ice can safely support. Disperse weight and fishing holes.
Access to the lake surface is restricted to foot traffic only at Lake Alice and Lake Maloya. For more information and current updates about the lakes' ice conditions, contact Sugarite Canyon State Park, (575) 445-5607, or visit the parks website: www.nmparks.com.