Tragedy struck the Gulf of Finland as fishermen continue to disregard safety warnings, leading to dangerous incidents of drowning. Recent reports outlined the deaths of two fishermen within days of each other, highlighting the perilous lure of ice fishing during treacherous conditions.
According to the Leningrad Region Investigative Committee, on March 8, 2025, a 55-year-old man set out for ice fishing at the Kyurlevsky quarry. Tragically, he fell through the thin ice and drowned. The following day, the body of another victim, a 57-year-old man from St. Petersburg, was discovered. He had gone fishing two days earlier in the Finnish Gulf but failed to return.
Despite regular warnings from authorities about the dangers of heading out onto the thin ice, many residents choose to venture onto the frozen surface of the Gulf. "Residents are regularly warned about the ban on going out on the ice," noted reports from 47news, indicating the persistent nature of these dangers.
Meanwhile, those willing to chance it shared their views on the current ice conditions. "It’s been years of this routine, and I know where to go. The ice is thick enough for me," stated one seasoned fisherman, who expressed confidence about the varying thickness of ice between 30 and 50 centimeters. Another enthusiast, often referred to as one of the 'penguins' of ice fishing, remarked, "Here, there’s never any lack of catch. This place is closer for pensioners and people with disabilities," highlighting the attraction of such locations for those who may not have the mobility to seek safer options.
Local authorities have taken action as concerns mount. St. Petersburg has placed restrictions on access to the ice on bodies of water, with the ban lasting until mid-spring. Specifically, entry to the Neva River and its tributaries is prohibited, reinforcing public safety efforts. Fishermen will be barred from venturing out on the ice of the Gulf of Finland until April 14, 2025.
Rescue teams have been actively monitoring the risky situation. Following the drowning incidents, the Priozersk search and rescue team quickly found the personal belongings of the recently deceased fisherman on March 8. A watercraft group from Shlisselburg was dispatched to assess the scene, emphasizing the swift response from local authorities to these imminent dangers.
Onlookers and casual fishermen remain unfazed, with many still choosing to fish under the looming threat of thin ice during the warmer temperatures of spring. Some fishers report opinions contrary to popular safety advisories, insisting on the reliability of the ice they frequent. A young fisherwoman with ten years of experience expressed, “Going out on the ice is not scary for me,” noting her strong belief based on her years of experience.
This disregard for personal safety amid increasing warnings raises alarming questions about preparedness and awareness among local fishing enthusiasts. Videos circulating on local media showcase large crowds of fishermen on the ice of the Gulf, portraying scenes of hubbub and camaraderie, yet within those visuals lurks the underlying peril of neglecting safety practices.
Authorities and rescue teams alike are urging fishermen to exercise caution and to heed safety guidelines. The tragic incidents of the past week must serve as wake-up calls not just for those who take to the ice but for the community as well, fostering greater awareness of the risks involved.
Maintaining vigilance and prioritizing safety must become the new norm for ice fishermen. With the ice melting and warmer temperatures approaching, the risk does not diminish just because there is still some remaining cover on the Gulf. It is imperative for individuals to recognize when to halt their beloved pastime for safety's sake. The memory of those who have tragically lost their lives should remind all fishermen of the importance of cautious practices.