Fishing Camps Worried About Slow Melt Of Lake Ice

Fishing Camps Worried About Slow Melt Of Lake Ice

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 13:42

 

 

Fishing camps in northern Saskatchewan could be impacted by a slow melt this year.

 

Ice cover is still present on most Saskatchewan lakes — and outfitters are worried, according to the head of the province’s outfitters’ association.

 

Hal Stupenikoff notes preparations are already underway for many fishing camps, and most are planning to open at the beginning of June.

 

Fishing season begins on May 3rd for the southern part of the province, while the central region opens on May 17th and the Far North on May 25th.

 

Stupenikoff says a lot of ice needs to come off between now and then.

 

The assistant manager of Missinipe-based Thompson’s Camps says the ice came off on May 5th last year, but right now there are no open spots on the lake.

 

Keeley Bright says the camp will feel the pinch if there is any significant delays in starting the season.

 

He notes the season is only about four months in length, and May and June is the busiest time of the year.

 

However, Bright adds he has talked to some residents of Grandmother’s Bay who are optimistic the ice will lift by mid-May.