Q&A for How to Know When Ice is Safe

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What are different ways to test ice safely?

Community Answer

Follow the instructions listed in the article above.

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Question

Is 3 inches of ice safe enough for ice fishing?

Community Answer

No, 3 inches isn't really safe enough for anyone.

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Question

Is it safe to ice skate on 3 inches of ice?

Community Answer

No, anything under 4 inches should be avoided at all costs. Even if it is above 3 inches, you should have safety gear.

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Question

How many inches do I need for a ice shanty?

Community Answer

About 4-6 inches of good clear or blue/black ice is good, but if you are with more than one person, it'd be a good idea to wait until the ice is 6+ inches and solid.

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Question

How long does it take ice to freeze to 5 inches?

Community Answer

It all depends on the outside temperature and lake water temperature. A small, shallow bay can freeze five inches in a day at -25C/-10F, but the Great Lakes can take a month at these temperatures. If you don't know the attributes and conditions of the lake/river prior to winter, be very careful. There may be flowing water, natural springs, methane deposits and other factors that cause thin ice in areas.

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Question

Where on a frozen lake is ice thinnest?

Community Answer

Typically, the ice is thinnest near the shore.

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Question

I want to take my 3150 kg Hummer ice fishing. What would be a good minimum blue ice thickness?

Community Answer

About 12-18 inches would be good, but it is not recommended.

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Question

Can ice on a lake support itself if the water level drops?

Community Answer

Yes, it is natural for snow to weigh down ice causing pools of water. I have seen this as deep as 3 feet. Be cautious and stay clear of these areas, it is sometimes hard to see them with a fresh snow cover on top.

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Question

I want to ice fish on a local reservoir, where the water surface moves up and down several feet. Is it safe to fish on if the ice is 6" thick but not in contact with the water?

Community Answer

Yes, as long you don’t come in contact with the water. It can also be suitable for a Hummer or an ATV.

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Question

How thick should ice be for a group of people?

Community Answer

It should be the thickness appropriate for ice fishing. Make sure to leave plenty of space between people so the ice doesn’t break.

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