Lake Lenore's Ice Fishing Derby is a winter highlight for many east-central fishers.

With temperatures having dropped off to below normal, conditions are beginning to turn ideal for those who like to enjoy the winter outdoors on ice.

Ice fishing season is around the corner, and in some cases, already upon us.

Rich Hildebrand with the Ministry of Environment, says there are guidelines to follow to make sure ice is ideal to be on.

"Ice should be about four inches thick to walk on. Six inches for a snowmobile or ATV to drive on, eight inches to drive a light car or truck and 12 inches to drive a heavier truck."

Hildebrand added that just like fishing in the summer, you do need to have a valid license.

"Go out and enjoy the fishery out there and make sure you have your valid fishing license with you," he noted. "Have some fun and make sure you do so safely."

Among the highlight winter events in the Humboldt area for ice fishing is the Lake Lenore Derby, which will be held on January 21, 2017, with over $10,000 in prizes.

Free fishing weekend will once again be held in February for those wishing to give it a try.

Ice fishing season continues until March 31, 2017.