Warm temps hampering ice fishing conditions

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RAPID CITY (AP) — The recent run of unseasonably warm temperatures in the Black Hills has Game, Fish and Parks officials warning anglers about the dangers of venturing out onto the ice on local lakes.

The media reports that conditions for ice fishing are deteriorating on parts of Sheridan Lake and Pactola Reservoir.

Officials say parts of Sheridan are still OK for fishing and even ATV travel, but as long as the weather holds steady, anglers will have to exercise common sense before hitting the ice.

GF&P Conservation Officer Joe Keeton says that four to six inches is somewhat safe for people to walk on. You can get an ATV on ice that's six to 12 inches, and it's safe to take vehicles on ice that's more than 16 inches thick.

Tags: ice fishing, outdoors, updates, winter, weather, warm, state