Jan 7th 2024 North Metro MN Ice Fly over

The winter season can be a rollercoaster ride when it comes to weather patterns, and this year is no exception. Central Minnesota, known for its beautiful lakes and vibrant ice fishing community, has witnessed some unexpected changes in ice conditions. At Ice-Inc.Info, we understand the importance of safety and staying informed, which is why we have added a new tool to our arsenal—a drone! We recently took to the skies to provide you with a visual update on the current conditions as of January 7th, and the results are eye-opening.

Unpredictable Weather

With the rollercoaster of weather we've been experiencing this year, it's no wonder that people are eagerly awaiting the upcoming 10-day forecast. The prospect of sub-freezing temperatures for an extended period, coupled with single-digit lows midweek starting on the 11th, has ice fishing enthusiasts excited. However, the lakes in central Minnesota have had their fair share of challenges.

Thaw and Re-Freeze

Early in the season, several lakes froze solid, setting the stage for a promising ice fishing season. However, mother nature had different plans, as we witnessed a thaw followed by a re-freeze. This unpredictable cycle has created a unique set of challenges for ice anglers in the region.

Drone Insights

At Ice-Inc.Info, we decided to take matters into our own hands and acquired a drone to capture the ever-changing ice conditions from above. Our drone flyovers on January 7th revealed a landscape of shifting ice shelves, cracks, and open areas scattered across the lake. It's essential to understand that these conditions are not static and can change rapidly, especially with the forecasted freezing temperatures.

Safety First

While many experienced ice anglers already know that "ice is never safe," this year, we emphasize the need for extreme caution. The thaw and re-freeze cycle has made ice thickness unpredictable, and venturing onto the ice should be done with utmost care. Safety should be your top priority, and we strongly recommend taking extra precautions when heading out onto the frozen lakes. Ice Safety Check list Click Here

Stay Informed

We understand the excitement that comes with the anticipation of hitting the ice, but safety always comes first. Ice-Inc.Info is committed to keeping you informed and safe during this challenging season. We plan to provide weekly drone updates to give you a visual insight into the evolving conditions. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for these valuable updates.

Explore Alternatives

For those itching to get out on the ice, it might be wise to consider heading north of the Twin Cities' north metro area, where ice conditions may be more favorable. Allow more time for the ice to firm up in the central Minnesota region, and stay informed about local regulations and recommendations.

The Drone that we flew was really nice it was the DJI Mini 3 and easy for a beginner (we lost visual and had to rely on the return to home feature that worked amazingly!) and was under $500 click here to learn more about the drone we used for this footage.