Ice fishing is a great winter activity and for the angler it provides a means to reel in some fish while waiting for prime spring conditions. A common question is what is safe ice thickness? First every angler should never consider ice safe unless you have confirmed its thickness. Some tips to keep in mind is that different waterways freeze at different rates. Moving water, large water bodies and spring feed lakes take longer to freeze than small, calm lakes. Watch the temperatures for multiple days below the freezing mark to ensure good solid ice. Check ice with a chisel or check local fishing shops for up to date information before venturing out from shore. Finally remember that ice is seldom the same thickness on the same body of water. Check ice thickness as you move on fish and your next ice adventure will be safe and productive.

Ice fishing is fairly simple and affordable to get into. All you need are a few rods, some jigs and an auger all of which can be carried in a 5-gallon bucket. The most important aspect of ice fishing is safety! Know your ice conditions and fish with a buddy. Field & Stream sums up everything you need to know.