Ice is Never Safe: Even in Wisconsin Winters

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Plenty of people are headed outdoors this weekend for some sturgeon spearing or snowmobiling, remember no ice is 100% safe.

After the record high temperatures in the 50s just last week, DNR wardens are reporting a number of incidents of recreational vehicles going through the ice throughout the state.

The DNR’s 2025 fatal crash reporting shows six fatal off-highway vehicle (OHV) incidents so far this year. Four out of those six incidents involved UTVs going through the ice. There has also been one ice-related snowmobile fatality.

With sturgeon spearing kicking off this weekend and other popular fishing activities on lakes, it is extremely important to keep safety at the forefront. 

Keep these safety tips in mind when operating recreational vehicles during winter.

• Remember UTVs are heavy. They are the heaviest recreational vehicle out on the ice, often being close to 3,000 pounds. This is similar to a car or truck.
• Have a plan in case you do go through the ice.
• Roll your window down when traveling on the ice and make sure you can easily open you door – drive slow and turn the radio down so that you can use eyes and ears to watch and hear for potential issues coming up.
• Make sure you have life jackets or some other type of floatation for every occupant of the UTV.
• Recovery for the UTV or other vehicle is the responsibility of the owner/operator. After 30 days, the owner can be fined each day after 30 days.
• Recovery rates for the machine can also be very expensive.
• This may not be the year to explore new locations – stick to known areas that typically have better ice conditions.
• The DNR does not monitor ice conditions. Local fishing clubs, outfitters and bait shops are the best sources for local current ice conditions.  
• Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during your ride.
• Carry a cell phone, and let people know where you are going and when you’ll return home.
• Watch for pressure ridges or ice buckling. These can be dangerous due to thin ice and open water.

Visit the DNR’s Ice Safety webpage for more information on staying safe on the ice.

Snow also acts as an insulator, which warms the ice. Lake Winnebago is expected to get 3-6″ on Saturday. Strong winds like we experienced on Thursday, gusting up to 60mph also moves ice sheets around and creates weak points. So keep an eye out for ice heaves and also be careful on shorelines or near dams and inlets.