Dramatic Frozen Lake Ice Collapse Captured on Video: A Reminder of Ice Fishing Safety

Understanding ice conditions and staying safe on the ice during your next winter fishing trip.

Kurt Mazurek | Jan 4, 2025

Dramatic Ice Collapse Video Reminds Us Of Ice Fishing Safety Tips / Midwest Outdoors USA

A Dramatic Ice Collapse Captured on Video

We’ve been cranking out quite a bit of ice fishing content recently, so ice safety is always a topic that remains front of mind. That’s why this dramatic video, posted recently as a reel on Midwest Outdoors USA’s Facebook page, caught my eye. Apparently, no one was injured in this event, but I’ll bet it got the videographer’s heart going.

What Causes Large-Scale Ice Failures?

I attempted to research whether this dramatic failure of a large area of lake ice is common, or at least, a documented phenomena. Unfortunately, I was unable to find any credible information describing what I saw on the video.

***Insane ice explosion*** Received this video this morning! Has anyone experienced this or know the cause? DM for video Credit #ice #icefishing #explosion #icebreak #fails #fyp #mwo
Posted by MidWest Outdoors USA on Thursday, January 2, 2025

The Possible Role of Aerators and Fluctuating Water Levels

From what I can see, it looks like there was probably a couple feet of open air between the ice layer and the surface of the water beneath it. You see that when the largest area of ice falls in, free falling without a splash. I suppose that air layer could form as the result of fluctuating water levels, like in a reservoir. A few people have commented on the original video that the ice failure may be the result of someone powering up an aerator system under the ice.

Essential Ice Fishing Safety Tips

In any case, it’s a dramatic thing to see and something for every ice angler to keep in mind as they venture out. The geyser of water shooting up out of an ice fishing hole that starts the video is a pretty memorable warning sign. If you’re on the ice and happen to see that, I would strongly suggest getting out of there as quickly as possible.

Always be sure you know not only the thickness, but the condition of the ice you plan to travel across. Before heading out, equip yourself with safety gear like ice picks and a flotation device, and fish with a buddy whenever possible. Check local conditions and avoid areas near aerators or inlets. A little extra planning and caution can ensure your safety and keep your ice fishing trips enjoyable for years to come.

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Published Jan 4, 2025|Modified Jan 4, 2025

KURT MAZUREK

Kurt Mazurek writes about all things fishing and the fishing lifestyle for Sports Illustrated. He has had a successful career in the fishing industry, developing marketing and creative content for many of the sport’s most recognizable brands. He is an enthusiastic bass tournament competitor, YouTuber, photographer, and is the author of the novel "Personal Best: fishing and life”