I’ve spent a lot of time at Canyon Ferry over the years, but I’ve never hit the Silos end for winter ice fishing until a couple of weeks ago. Compared to other solid water I’ve fished, the lake seemed like a off-road rally on ice. ATVs, UTVs and cars hummed across the ice as a plane and helicopter flew overhead. When did ice fishing become such a motorized activity? The creative uses of these vehicles was impressive too, and not always done with safety in mind. People rode on the front of ATVs and two to the back. I saw them hauling dogs, trailers of all kinds as well as sleds. You have to hand it to folks how creative they can be.

To read more about my experience, and see photos from the day, check out my story at https://billingsgazette.com/outdoors/ice-land-canyon-ferrys-a-whole-different-world-in-winter/article_eaade6be-952e-50e8-8bbd-ad14d4c3b156.html.

Written by Brett French | Outdoors Editor for Billings Gazette Communications