NORFOLK -- Between the pandemic and cold temperatures, it can be difficult to find a hobby this season. One winter sport could be a solution: ice fishing. But it's been a strange year for it.

Thanks to fluctuating temperatures and heavy snow, ice fishing has been particularly dangerous this year. Daryl Bauer, outreach program manager of the Nebraska Game and Parks' Fisheries Division -- and a passionate fisher himself -- said he hears from fishers all over the state that it's been difficult this year.

The wind is causing water to move below the surface and break ice. Meanwhile, snow can blanket lake surfaces, making it hard to tell how thick it is. The snow also raises the temperature by acting as an insulator.

"And I see people go out without looking at how thick it is," Bauer said. He recommends people use the proper tools to check any ice before they walk on it.

There are some safe spots.

Jesten Duerst was ice fishing with his friend Wednesday morning in Norfolk. He says the unique pastime drew him in, but that he wouldn't like it if the ice was thin!

Temperatures are supposed to dip below freezing for most of the state later this week, making for better fishing conditions.

Snow is a possibility too, so be sure to exercise caution.

Nebraska Game and Parks have tips for all-level-experience fishers on their website.