OutlookJeff Harrison, conservation officer for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, for example, recently altered his initial outlook on this year’s ice fishing season. As bone-chilling temperatures continued to form clear and consistent ice across waterways, Harrison flipped his script. “The ice is crystal clear — the best you could ask for,” added Hurt, who predicts anglers this year will enjoy as many as five weeks on the ice. Additionally, clear and sunny skies only will help smooth the ice, said Hurt, who noted steady precipitation could impact conditions. And although he also promotes fishing in pairs, the Fresh Water Fishing Hall-of-Famer admitted he does not always follow his own mantra.