How much ice on a lake is needed to safely ice fish?

Ice Fishing Safely. When in doubt, DON'T GO OUT! BEWARE OF THIN ICE. Every winter, thousands of Hoosiers enjoy fishing, skating, hiking or just sliding around on frozen ponds and lakes. And every year, people drown after falling through ice. Like driving on snow, Hoosiers need to re-learn how to have safe fun on ice. read more

It can vary. New ice is far stronger than old ice. With three inches of new ice I will readily venture out on a lake,but I constantly test the ice thickness as I walk. read more

Ice Thickness Chart. WARNING: Always be cautious. If you are unsure if the ice is safe, don’t take your chances! It may also be a good idea to check with a local expert about ice safety. Bait shops or lakeside businesses may know about the ice conditions. Always be safe and don’t put yourself or others at risk. read more

Contact a local bait shop or lakeside resort to ask about ice conditions. Check ice thickness once you get there. Temperature, snow cover, currents, springs and rough fish all affect the relative safety of ice. Ice is seldom the same thickness over a single body of water; it can be two feet thick in one place and one inch thick a few yards away. read more