Lake Erie Is 80% Frozen - Here's What The ODNR Wants You To Know

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has deemed it ice fishing season.

As Northeast Ohioans face bitter-cold temperatures, more than 80% of Lake Erie has frozen, prompting the Department of Natural Resources to open Camp Perry in Ottawa County for anglers.

About two weeks ago, officials had warned people of weak ice on the lake, and last month, Lake Erie and the other Great Lakes were only 1.3% frozen, cleveland.com noted in a report Tuesday (February 16).

Parking at Camp Perry for ice fishing will be available from 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. beginning Tuesday. The lot accommodates 200 vehicles and charges a $15 fee per vehicle each day. Vehicles must leave before closing at 10 p.m., according to an Ohio Department of Natural Resources press release.

The department also outlined ice fishing safety reminders on its website. That includes fishing with a partner and around other anglers, protecting cell phones in plastic bags and remaining calm if an angler falls in the water, among others.

“As always, be safe when you head out on the ice and for more information, please call 1-800-WILDLIFE or contact your local Wildlife District Office,” the Department of Natural Resources states.

Camp Perry is at 1000 N. Lawrence Dr. No 600 in Port Clinton. Call Camp Perry at 888-889-7010 for additional questions.

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