Taking risks gets ice anglers in trouble. Common sense plays an important role in ice safety. Check local bait shops or tackle stores for current ice conditions. Never go ice fishing alone. Traveling on ice by car, foot or snowmobile is a judgment decision every time.
Ice has unique qualities that can cause it to become unstable within hours.
A warming trend or slush that prevents ideal freezing must be noted. New ice is more resilient. Basic guidelines for safe ice travel include staying off 1 inch of ice regardless of how safe it appears. Two inches will support most solitary anglers, but can be treacherous. Ice anglers should carry two sharp nails, spikes or ice picks at all times.