Checking safety of ice

[Captain1978]

I use my ice bar to check the ice. If I can hit the ice twice without breaking thru then I will walk on it. I was just wondering other people's methods of deciding if the ice is safe to walk on.

[Stuck-on-Seven]

If theres no one else out there then im not willing to be the first to try it

[FISHFORPIKE]

If theres no one else out there then im not willing to be the first to try it

I'll agree with that, it's a good one.
I use a spud to check ice thickness early in the season, and to check suspicious shorelines and other areas throughout the season.
If in doubt - turn back.

[witty1171]

I let my buddy walk out a good 10 feet in front of me.  If he doesn't fall in I'm good.

[dan_lais]

i know this is really his method too!!!!IM THE BUDDY.lol

[Puddleset]

ummmmm...dan?   I'd find a new buddy......or at least a friendlier enemy.....

[Nick94]

thank god for buddies, their a life saver

[witty1171]

thank god for buddies, their a life saver

Very true, atleast Dan knows I'd do anything possible to get him out if he ever went in. Now if I went in I'd be done. I carry rope in my tip-up bucket just incase.

[Wisdom]

I used the buddy method last year but the jerk moved to Hawaii know I stick with where I know and if any doubt I stay home.

[JayErica1]

walk about 3-5 ft out and kind of do a jump up and down thing!! then i venture out a little further and perhaps drill a hole to see how thick!!

[qbyfisher]

  same here