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2017 Sugarite Canyon State Park’s Lakes Open to Ice Fishing

Source: nmparks.com
Source: nmparks.com

Source: State of New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

Sugarite Canyon State Park will be open for ice fishing Saturday, January 7, 2017. Recent cold weather has increased the lake’s ice thickness to minimum standards, according New Mexico State Parks officials. State Parks 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.

Lake Maloya and Lake Alice are now open to walk-ins for ice fishing. State officials remind you that you take a risk anytime you go out onto the ice. Before going out onto the ice, consider the following safety precautions:

Don’t fish alone. Before you leave shore, inform someone of your destination and expected time of 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. 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. Ice spikes are recommended for self-rescue.
Spread out. Too many people congregated in one area may be more than the ice can safely support. Disperse weight and fishing holes.

For more information and current updates about the lake’s ice conditions, please contact Sugarite Canyon State Park, (575) 445-5607. Information is also available at www.nmparks.com.

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