usually how long does it take to freeze

[cabr03]

This might b a silly question, kinda newer. How many cold days just below freezing typicly does it take to make safe ice. I know it has to do with size of lake. Never had to wait so long for ice, really itchin to fish. Lol.   Thanx

[Derek]

Search this site for like ice thickness chart or something like that. If I wasnt on my phone right now I'd dig it up for you. If the lake is capped and it stays cold it shouldn't take long. The wind can be a real deal breaker too.

[MidnightRambler]

There is a chart out there somewhere that gives approximate freezing time under optimal conditions.

But there are way too many issues at play to predict exactly how fast ice freezes. Here are some things that make a difference in ice formation:

Wind will slow the process of freezing down when it is blowing over open water.

Clear water freezes quicker than stained water.

Current obviously slows freezing down.

Geese and carp (yes, schools of carp) can keep patches of water open.

Snow resting on thin ice will slow the freezing process way down.

[huntaholic]

A very small amount of snow can also be helpful. The snow on top will not allow light to pentrate through the ice and raise water temps, but any measureable amount of snow will act as an insulator and really slow things down.

[Shane123]

[jumbo chaser]

Wondering the same thing its getting colder down here in southern iowa had thin ice before wind tonight .Very windy now and snow .Hope to be on some ice by sunday to catch some big gills and perch!!!!!!!!Come on cold and wind to stop soon!!!!