Ice observation thread??? - NJFishing.com Your Best Online Source for Fishing Information in New Jersey

Jigman13 · #1 01-23-2018, 08:18 PM

Good idea with This thread Eddie. Might save someone's life!

I'll look to check some local spots and report back if I can get away from work on an extended lunch break.

catfishonthelake · #2 01-23-2018, 09:34 PM

Was out on Little Swartz on Sunday. There was a solid 7- of black ice underneath the little bit of snow, but was getting sloppy by the end of the day. I was all the way on the other side of the lake and was one of the last people off. On the long walk back there was lots of water coming up through existing holes and the lake as a whole didn't look so hot. I can't imagine the heavy rain and near 60-degree temps today didn't put a hurtin' on a lot of stuff. Planks at best this weekend, life preservers at worst. Be safe guys.

phil · #3 01-23-2018, 09:39 PM

This blows. My son actually wanted to go out again this weekend. Not doing it if i have to worry about a pfd and planks. Hows the ice in maine lol

saxmatt · #4 01-23-2018, 10:08 PM

I started with 6-8" of black ice with snow yesterday and be the end of the day there was 1/2" of water on the ice and it was starting to honeycomb. The ice will be sketchy after today, especially around the edges. The next 2 days should firm up the ice but I'd bring a plank and wear ice picks around your neck this weekend.

FASTEDDIE29 · #5 01-23-2018, 10:10 PM

I really appreciate all that chimed in so far. Let’s keep people safe! Ice fishing is great especially when enjoyed with friends while grilling some good eats! Catching the target species are always an added bonus of course. Be safe this weekend if your headed out! Also, if your not comfortable venturing out, just don’t do it! Especially if your alone! Anything can happen at any given time on the water and hardwater! TIGHT LINEZ and FLAGS FOR ALL!!!

P.S. Look for another cold blast to come in early February! We may have the Ice Gods on our side to end the season!!!