How to Test the Durability of Ice before Fishing

Ice fishing is an exciting activity for most anglers, especially for those who seldom see snow or ice in their living area. However, safety is the foremost important things for all anglers in fishing on ice not just only select the most suitable angling gadgets from fishing tackle shops.

How to test the ice thickness and whether it can support human weight? Usually, the ice should be 6cm or above for fishing. Try to test the solidity of the ice before angling. One of the best ways is: have one foot on the river side, and the other kick the ice surface heavily. If the ice does not crack, it’s ok to step on. If there are some fissures, just find another place or wait for other chances. As for the ice, it’s better to choose the ice area in northern river side, this is because river in northern side will get frozen late than other parts due to north wind.

If this is still unsure or to further ensure the ice are strong enough, anglers can watch the ice fishing places nearby urban areas. Usually, city has thermal effect and the ice will be much thinner than those suburbs. If the urban area ice fishing areas are already in use, the ice is strong enough to support most anglers. Of course, if personal weight is over than 200 pounds, more tests are needed.

Anyway, safety should be put in the first places, it’s necessary to try more methods to test the toughness of ice before.