3001First Ice is not always what it is cracked up to be. Thin ice is often thinner near the shore so stepping onto it can be dangerous.
We once fished in a reservoir for perch and crappies. The ice fishing was not crowded, and we could hike into remote coves, far from the parking spot. If you went into the water, it would be a miserable hike out.
Once to where we wanted to go, we looked for a way to get safely onto the ice. Water levels can change which breaks up any shore ice. The warmer rocks and logs along the shore tend to absorb heat and limit any freezing. If you can just get 10-15 feet off the bank, the ice can be safe enough to support an angler.
This lake had many felled trees that were laying in the lake. We would straddle and shimmy out onto the thicker ice. If we had a long 2x6x10, we could also place the board down as a bridge. Laying loose logs to form a bridge would also work.
Most Big Boy Icemen wait until the ice is around 5 inches thick. I know that smaller, skinny ice boys can’t wait to get onto ice that is just a few inches thick. This depth is strong and study, if it is not slushy. Keep an eye on the ice if the day is getting warm. Your bridge may melt or fail to work.
Thinner ice cuts holes easier. A hand auger will do the trick. A heavier power auger may not be needed. Don’t cut your holes too close together.
Thinner ice is clearer ice. This means that your movement will be detected by fish. Look for a cloudy area or a place where snow has collected on a shadowy island. Fish will stack up in these shady places.
Wearing a floatation outfit is a smart and safe idea. Most newer bibs and parkas designed for ice fishing have floatation built into them.
A safety throw jug is a good idea. Use an old handled plastic jug with 20 feet of ¼ inch nylon rope. Tie one end to the jug handle and make a loop in the other, for holding onto. Now push the line into the jug’s pour spout. Start at the handle end. When you need an accurate rescue line, wrap the loop around your wrist and throw the jug at the victim. They can grab the large jug and get pulled out.
The new, thin ice is slick ice. Be sure to have some traction on the bottom of your boots. Back in the day, we glued the old carpet to our boot soles. You could also hold carpet in place using old rubber inner tube bands to hold them on. The best way is to use strap on wire traction treads. Having an ice pole or ski pole is also a good way to stay upright and test the ice in front of you.
Thinner ice encourages fish to feed closer to shore. You don’t need to go out to the middle of the pond. The water can be warmer along the banks and there will also be more algae and insects for fish to feed on.
When on thin ice, your safety is in your speed!
Montana Grant
