Sugarite Canyon State Park Open to Ice Fishing

By EMNRD

The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources State Parks Division announces that Lake Alice at Sugarite Canyon State Park near Raton is now open for ice fishing.  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 remains closed to ice fishing at this time.

 

State officials warn that all activities on the lake surface are at your own risk. Before going out onto the ice, consider the following safety precautions:

 

• Do not 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.
• 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.

 

Contact Sugarite Canyon State Park, (575) 445-5607 to check on ice conditions of Lake Maloya.