12/13/24 – We’ve been receiving a few emails recently asking how thick the ice is on Sawbill Lake. Up until now the conditions have either been too cold, too windy, or I’ve been too chicken to venture out onto the early season ice. This afternoon I finally worked up the gumption to go see what’s what.

After gathering the necessary tools I gingerly made my way out onto the lake, probably only 20 paces or so. With what felt like a few rotations of the auger the hole was quickly drilled. Upon consulting the official ice measuring stick I found no more than 4″ of ice with about 5-1/2″ of somewhat compact slush on top of it. For reference the DNR recommends a minimum of 4″ of new clear ice for travel on foot, but I couldn’t tell how clear this ice was since it was under a bunch of slush. Personally I prefer more like 6″ or more of solid ice so after taking proper documentation I retraced my steps back to shore. -Jessica