CATAWBA ISLAND, Ohio — The Catawba Island Volunteer Fire Department (CIVFD) successfully rescued two ice fishermen on Saturday night after one fisherman fell through the ice and became stranded, and another attempted to walk back to shore.
At approximately 7:53 p.m., the CIVFD was dispatched to a reported ice rescue near the northwest tip of Catawba Island. According to a Facebook post from the fire department, the situation began when one of the fishermen fell into the water after a section of ice cracked beneath him. The fall left him stranded, unable to return to shore.
Further reports indicated that a civilian attempted to assist the fisherman by launching a kayak, while another ice fisherman attempted to make his way back to the shore on foot. Both individuals were in potential danger due to the unstable ice.
In response, the CIVFD established two command centers—one at Bonanza Drive and another at Moore’s Dock—coordinating efforts between rescuers on the ground and aerial support from the U.S. Coast Guard. The team at Bonanza Drive sent a group of three firefighters onto the ice, while the Coast Guard deployed an airboat from Moore’s Dock.
The stranded fisherman was successfully rescued by the airboat and brought to shore, where he was evaluated by Port Clinton EMS personnel. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all individuals involved in the rescue were accounted for. The fire department stated that the rescue was conducted safely with assistance from the Catawba Island Police Department.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of ice fishing and the importance of swift, coordinated rescue efforts. The Catawba Island Volunteer Fire Department commended all involved for their professionalism and quick action, ensuring the safety of both the fishermen and the community.