DNR warns spearers of dicey ice

OSHKOSH - Puddles and cracks are a sturgeon spearer's worst nightmare.

"I wish it was a week ago, yes," says DNR sturgeon biologist Ron Bruch. "Just to get into it and get it done with, and to make sure we got good winter weather."

Instead, spearers will have to adapt to the balmy conditions leading into this Saturday's opener.

"Most importantly the spearers need to be aware of how much ice is under the area that they're traveling," says Bruch.

That means checking the ice thickness by drilling holes, asking about conditions at area sturgeon clubs, and consulting with local residents.

Christmas trees will play a valuable part in providing safety for spearers this season. Clubs put the trees up to let spearers know where the bridges are, but if the trees are down the ice is cracked so stay away.

"The bridges we've probably moved four or five times because when the wind blows and the water is running like this it causes the ice to heave up and cracks are developing," says Payne's Point Hook & Spear Club member George Nobbe.

Despite the cracks, the DNR says the ice thickness is good; ranging from 25 to 30 inches in most spots on Lake Winnebago.

"The spearers are really good at what they do, and they know how to adapt to changes in the weather," says Bruch. "Whether its 50 degrees or 50 below they're going to be out there."

"It's going to be a good season," says Nobbe. "Get there early and enjoy the day."

In order to do that, the DNR says spearers must use good judgment and avoid cracked ice.