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iShackShare Ice Safety
I Fell Through the Ice Yesterday
And why this matters to every ice angler.
Yesterday, I experienced something no ice angler ever wants to go through. I fell through the ice.
The cause was a previously placed ice shack combined with rapidly changing weather conditions. We had a warm up to around 40 degrees with rain. During that time, the shack was moved off the spot it had been sitting on, and one of the tires briefly broke through.
Even though we had several good freeze days and cold nights afterward, followed by snowfall, that specific area never fully recovered.
Like many anglers would assume, we believed the upcoming freeze would tighten everything back up. Unfortunately, it didn’t.
The weak ice was hidden under snow and looked no different than the surrounding area.
Thankfully, I was wearing a Graff Float Suit and Lemigo boots. That gear kept me dry, provided buoyancy, and allowed me to get myself out and to safety.
The Takeaway
No ice is ever 100 percent safe.
Known weak ice should always be clearly marked, especially after warm-ups, rain events, or when ice shacks are moved. Snow hides danger. Past success does not guarantee future safety.
iShackShare Ice Safety Checklist
- ✔ Wear a float suit or flotation-assisted outerwear
- ✔ Carry ice picks and wear ice cleats
- ✔ Clearly mark known weak ice areas
- ✔ Be cautious around recently moved ice shacks
- ✔ Avoid slush pockets, pressure cracks, and refrozen holes
- ✔ Never assume ice has “healed” after a warm-up
- ✔ Fish with a partner whenever possible
- ✔ Slow down and trust your instincts
Ice fishing is an incredible experience, but it demands respect. I am extremely grateful to be here, safe, and able to share this story.
Stay safe out there.
Jamie Besaw
Founder, iShackShare
iShackShare connects anglers with trusted ice shack hosts while promoting safety, responsibility, and respect for the ice.
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