Spud Safely!!

With this being yet another mild Southern Ontario winter we need to remember to use Extreme Caution when venturing out on the ice. We need to remember that although the ice looks uniform from above Main Lake and tributary river currents as well as underwater Springs can turn safe Ice into danger zones within a few feet. A floatation suit and a pair of hand held ice picks and a friend are the wisest things to have with you when on the ice at any time in case the unexpected ever happens. Although these are great after you have fallen through the best case scenario is not to fall through in the first place , which brings me to the number one safety tool to use if you choose to venture on potentially unsafe or new hard water and that is a quality ice spud! Using this tool to constantly check ice consistancy as you walk is your best preventative measure. I've seen and used (and lost through the ice) a few home welded versions some good, some bad. The Rapala Ice Spud has to me all the best features if your buying an "Over the counter Spud" At 4lb it's the perfect weight to be functional to both carry and to deliver enough gravitational force for striking the ice. The agressive design of its head easily pierce's the ice 2-3 inches (which is the very minimum you should attempt to walk on) with one blow. The non slip grip and wrist strap are an obvious plus! One last feature that I've never found in any other spud is that is a 2 piece making it easy to transport. What ever spud you decide on or have available to you just be sure to use it!!! I don't want to hear a heart breaking story about any of you! Be Safe and Best of Luck!