Ice thickness rules of thumb
- Under 4 in: Stay off the ice.
- 4 in: Safe for walking, snowshoeing, and basic gear sled.
- 5–7 in: Snowmobile or small ATV.
- 8–12 in: Small car or compact SUV.
- 12–15 in: Full-size pickup truck.
Starter gear checklist
- Safety spikes: Inexpensive picks worn around your neck let you pull yourself out if you break through.
- Spud bar (chisel): Strike the ice ahead of your boots to test structural integrity.
- Hand or electric auger: A 6-inch auger is fast to drill for panfish; 8-inch is standard for walleye and pike.
- Ice skimmer & bucket: Clears slush from drilled holes and doubles as your seat.
Where to drill your first holes
Look for green weed edges in 8 to 15 feet of water. Bluegills, crappies, and perch school around living vegetation throughout early winter feeding on aquatic insect larvae.