Destination Thursday: Ice Fishing at Sinnemahoning State Park

Surrounded by Elk State Forest, Sinnemahoning State Park is on the First Fork of Sinnemahoning Creek, which has been damned to form the frozen impoundment pictured here. The immediate area has picturesque views of the surrounding high plateaus and deep valleys, and countless acres of forests as one of the wildest regions of the state. There is an abundance of wildlife, including nesting bald eagles and elk.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources asks that you follow these general guidelines for a safe ice fishing adventure.

• Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for a small group of several anglers. Use an auger to test the thickness of the ice before you go out on it.
• Blue/black ice is stronger than milky white ice.
• Perimeter ice is weaker due to shifting, expansion and sunlight reflecting off of the bottom. Avoid areas with protruding logs, brush, plants and docks. These structures can absorb heat, weakening the surrounding ice.
• Changing air temperatures and standing water on ice can weaken and crack the ice. Single, unbroken pressure cracks in ice are probably safe to cross, but stay away from areas where cracks meet or intersect.
• Venturing out on ice alone is not advisable. Take a friend along for fun and for safety.
• Wear a PFD (life jacket).

The 1,910-acre Sinnemahoning State Park is in Cameron and Potter counties, eight miles north on PA 872 from its junction with PA 120 in the hamlet of Sinnemahoning, or 35 miles south from the junction of PA 872 with US 6 in Coudersport.

Click here for door-to-door MapQuest driving directions.

E-mail Today's WPC Daily to a Friend!

Sign Up for WPC Daily