Or even tomorrow? Can anyone tell us faraway folks whether it’s snowed in or not? It’s not clear from the national weather service just how much snow that area got.
I have a report that Lake Massabesic (Manchester NH) has ice. I am thinking about tomorrow (Thursday 1/20). Can anyone confirm? Would anyone like to join me?
About four or five boats sailed on Quaboag (East Brookfield, MA) today. At noon the ice had patchy snow on it; by 3PM, that snow was all either sublimated or wetted out. There was enough breeze to be fun without it ever being … exciting. To the SW of the launch site there’s a bay that was apparently open water a couple of days ago, and folks were avoiding it. Well to the E of the launch site there’s a place where a river flows in and there’s open water over there (as usual) as well. And at the foot of the ramp there was a large puddle — if someone can bring some planks, it’ll be a godsend. The ice itself was amazingly flat and smooth — none of that “rattling along on a NYC subway” feel that you sometimes get. It was also somewhat soft, because temps were in the 40s. Should harden up a bit tonight, and not soften too much tomorrow. Near the ramp it appeared to be about 3.5 inches thick … maybe a little more in some places and less in others. I would certainly not claim it was “safe”.
Thanks for the report John, it sounds like Quaboag may be the only place around right now? With the cold tonight and tomorrow, the safety rating should increase for the weekend! Keep us informed if you are on it again. Phil
Lake Sunapee is iced over.. Should thicken up tonight and tomorrow.. Cold Tuesday (high of 6 w 13mph wind). I think Wed is the day to sail – High 28 wind 9 mph
Newbie sailer question. I saw that some sailers have quick-pins to secure the runners to their brackets. I’m looking for advice on what kind of quick-pins I should be looking for to replace the bolt and nuts I have. They work fine, but they seem cumbersome in cold weather. Is there a particular type that works better than others? Any advice would be appreciated. -Ben
Ben, sorry for the long delay answering your question. Runner alignment on iceboats is the key to speed and for this reason most runners are snugged tight in their chocks with bolts. Once all the space between the runner and chock is gone we back off the bolt 1/8 to 1/4 turn or just enough so the runner can easily bump up and over small ice chunks. I’m not familiar with sailors using quick pins for this connection (as you ask) but I know we use them for connecting the stays to the plank which is very handy when fingers are cold. With the runners snug in their chocks it becomes clear that chock alignment is critical when setting up your boat for the season. Hope this helps!
VC J Whitehair
Wanted: schematic(s) to retrofit pedal steering in a Yankee ice yacht (original wheel steering in place)
Would like to have both/redundant systems in this boat.
I am looking to make steering on my new boat less twitchy. Has anyone found a mechanism that changes pedal or tiller input to runner angle that changes over the range? Cars typically have this so its ratio varies from on center to near limit. On center ratio reduction of 3:1 maybe and quickly going to 1:1. This is not a rationl of paralleogram arm issue. Simple if possible. Thanks.
According to CIBC, there is good ice at Moosehead in Maine. They are reporting ice tight to shore. They are going to repost Thursday pm. The weather forecasts 6.9-5.1 mph wind, 18 degrees Thursday night, 33 degrees on Friday. Launch is at The Birches in Rockport. Is anyone interested an a last iceboat trip? Please contact me.
How’s the parking at Webster? How’s the ice at quaboag? How do I post this? I checked The Nip in Bridgewater, open, no ice at all. Canton Res look rough, maybe a 2 in the good spots. What a URL?
Boat Launch at Waterside Mary’s for 1 car / trailer at a time. one unloaded, park across the street in the lot.
Waterside Mary’s located at
114 Point Breeze Rd, Webster, MA 01570
Have fun!
sailing on Quannapowitt wenesday two windsurfers flying 40 plus wind speed . plan on setting up the DN’s thursday fri. and into the weekend if the ice holds it’s form .Quannapowitt is in Wakefield Ma. Go to the end of Linda rd. to launch at the yacht club.
Can someone with experience please tell us all what the best type and size of drill bit that should be used to check ice thickness? I have tried a few types of drills, borers, etc. and they are as slow as molasses. Thanks!
In regards to drill testing ice, I use a standard battery drill with a 1” “flat drill bit” (google the term for those unfamiliar). It will drill the hole in about 6 seconds before the bit bottoms out at the motor. At this point I don’t care since that is around 5” which is good enough for me. After I drill a hole I insert a piece of 3/4” x1/8” x 15” aluminum flat bar that I have bent a right angle hook at the insertion end. The light weight bar is labeled in bold letters in 1” increments so at a glance I can read the thickness. The hook at the end allows me to hook it under the bottom of the ice to get a precise measurement. I always found chopping a hole not only energy wasteful but misleading via poor optics to guess the thickness.
When I am testing ice I tie into a rope and have a buddy with good ice cleats on the smarter (rear) end. We both have a minimum of picks and life jackets, and we prefer to have dry suits on too. I NEVER sail my boat to the next test hole, I always walk – sometimes i’ll walk behind my runner plank with the mast up but with no sail up. If I notice the ice is sketchy I can weight my plank and back out. Don’t do this alone.
Always have a throw bag to throw to the person in the water and be sure they have one to throw to you. When you are in the water you can’t back throw to another person without putting them at risk trying to get to it. Whistles are light to carry and have saved lives. Keep in mind you cannot assist in pulling anybody out of the water if you are on smooth ice unless you have cleats!
If somebody falls through and you are I doubt, call 911 immediately – call back to cancel if the emergency is mitigated.
Ice, especially dirty ice or really hard black ice, can dull a drill bit quickly. Before you go out for a day of ice-checking, consider taking a file to the cutting edges and giving a few swipes over them to make your spade bit oh-so-much-more effective.
I heard through the grapevine (Chelsea Yacht Club) that there will be ice boating in Athens, NY tomorrrow (Feb 13th). I would like to drive up and check out the sport. Anyone have any details or an idea of what to expect? Where specifically to meet up? Times?
Hello! I recently moved (back) to Boston from the Bay Area where I sailed a lot so now looking for ways to sail in the winter. Does anyone know of places where one could rent ice boats or take lessons (within 3 hours of Boston)?
Lake Wentworth in Wolfboro NH has very good ice. Access from albee allen beach.
Lake Winnipesaukee is even better with some areas of 8 inch thick awesome black ice. Access from Leavitt Beach in Meredith NH. Beware the broads south of Steamboat island looks great but was only 1/2 inch today.
Skated / scouted 20 miles of ice today. Tomorrow is the last day to sail before the “big snow”
Bolton Bay Lake George yesterday had waves, today a clear sheet of black ice. Probably not thick enough yet but soon. Will post videos on ice boats of Saratoga NY face book page.
“Iceitis” is still running rampant on Lake Monomonoc. The search for a cure continues.
We’re planning a FULL MOON sail tomorrow night if conditions are favorable.
Always wanted to do it.
Sailed Lake Sunapee today. Winds gusting to >20 MPH were challenging, but the ice is improving. Snow drifts alternate with scoured ice in places ,but there is a large plate of good sailable ice off the state beach. The hole has healed over (3in thick). Tomorrow is forecast for 10 MPH winds and sunny.
The wind has scoured the ice off the state beach. There is an expanse of grey ice where we were sailing yesterday with some residual snow giving it a scalloped appearance . Looks fast.
Temp is now 10 f w wind chill -8f. 19f forecast by noon.
The problem is the wind which is howling at 20 mph.
Tomorrow is forecast for noon temp 23f winds 11 mph and sunny.
Tomorrow (Monday) is THE DAY!
I’m with Mark on Sunapee. Wind is up. Great sailing – can easily move through the uber light snow. I marked the hole off the state beach. Easy parking and access. The wind forecasted for the weekend dictates some broken boats are inevitable. I’ll be running cones as long as my hardware and I can hang on. Did I say great sailing?! Beware: up the lake off Sunapee light is another large hole, not currently marked. A large area race course size plate is one bay up from here. One pressure ridge to cross.
Ice claws and throw ropes save lives – don’t sail without!
VC Jay Whitehair
Lake Sunapee has large areas of 3-4 inch ice and 8-10 inches on the southern end. Snow coverage is 1 inch avg. The wind is coming up now (7 mph). I will be out there this afternoon. Tomorrow wind forecast up to 17 mph.
Our guy in the area has checked recently and it is not ready. It did however set up multiple times only to be blown out by the various storms that rolled through.
No wind out at the flag on Commodore Island yet this morning. Monomonock takes a few hours before the wind comes up…We shall see. Ice is 6″ with a thin dusting of snow. When you get to the main part of the lake, there is only one rock reef in the middle which has markers around it. Stay to the shore line to go around. I do not have a launch area to offer. I’m on a steep hill and have to use a different area to lauch. I am lucky to be able to use the property myself.
Ed we are looking into how much snow they got but it probably isn’t a lot but caution with hazzards covered. Boots on the ground tomorrow morning will confirm
Lake Sunapee has decent ice covered by about 1 inch of snow
On Fri, Jan 22, 2021 at 7:10 AM New England Ice Yacht Association wrote:
> Ed commented: “Thanks John! Looks like switching gears and going to head > up to Great Pond in Maine. Heard the snow was limited up there and hoping > sailable ice. Ed” >
Sad news on Sunapee. 1-1/2” snow fell last night. The new snow is covering the the ice that just came in last night on two holes – one off the state beach and one off the Sunapee harbor light. Because these thin ice holes are man eaters and now camouflaged, I cannot vouch for safe sailing anymore. Please keep up the chatter if there is good sailing out there.
Thanks!
VC Jay Whitehair
Having problems posting on this forum….Sorry I missed you John. Lake Monomonock takes a few hours to wake up…Wind, if there is going to be any, usually begins around 11:00 A.M.I was out today at 11:00 and it was a good breeze. Maybe a little much for a rookie! I’m guessing 12-15 MPH.The form for signing up to pay dues is for the season 2019 to 2020? Let’s see if this post works Chip
Monomonac: my son got there. About 1″ of light snow on the lake and no wind right now, so we’re calling off our plans…if we knew the lake and hazards, it might be worth the 2 hour drive, but we don’t, so… In the meantime, I’m gonna take a look at long pond in freetown, just in case…
John let us know about long pond in MA. Have not heard anything out of that area for a while. Probably nothing to report. You do know Jay is set up at sunapee right
Yeah…sunappee was tempting, but added another two hours to a day when I was already playing hookey (and my son had to be back in Boston by about 230 PM). I’ll let you know what I find at Long Pond. The brackish-water area near my home had a beautiful smooth sheet of ice on it this morning, but it’s probably only 1/2″ thick — I didn’t bother checking. But I figure that if brackish water is setting up, maybe Long Pond is worth a look.
Long Pond is mostly open water. About 1/4″ thick ice near the ramp, extending out 20-30 yards, but it’ll take a lot more cold/calm/clear nights to do what’s needed here.
This Covid frustrated DN sailor will be running marks on Sunapee tomorrow (Thurs) and likely through the weekend. Launching from the State Park Beach on SW side of lake. Mark Freedman and I did a “Sunapee the Hard Way” today running from the beach all the way up to Sunapee harbor and discovered the large lake is in rare form. There are two open areas of concern: one at far side of lake opposite state beach 10’x20′, the other way up the lake, half way across lake from Sunapee harbor light – that hole is 60’x60′ – beware. One pressure ridge was easily crossable in that entire length of voyaging. BIG ice. Use all caution while discovering the lake. Never sail alone. Come run scratch races with me…. please keep Covid safe and stay at least 10′ away!
7 Boats on Monomonoc today. The ice was an 8 with plenty of wind. It will be cold tonight and warm again tomorrow afternoon. The best sailing will be from 8 am to 2-3 pm where the top layer many soften slightly. Future looks good. If you can’t find ice, you’re not looking.
Upstate NY group will sail tomorrow either at Round Lake (Round Lake Boat Launch) or Saratoga Lake (Brown’s Beach Boat Launch). Round Lake is a known commodity as we sailed there Monday. Saratoga Lake is bigger and reportedly has good ice but has not been fully checked yet. Will try to post here when details are firm, but may be out sailing instead of posting…
Saratoga Lake also has a good surface. Didn’t get to check it all out as the wind was a bit strong for this old f*rt. The surface was so good I must have slid 100 yards after being ejected from my DN as I attempted a jibe. Brown’s Beach offers access and parking, There are a few spots near the beach where streams enter that are open, but from what I saw at least most of the rest of the lake is fine. I expect some of the upstate gang will sail there tomorrow, maybe me too if the bruises aren’t too bad.
8 boats on Monomonoc today. Good ice, great wind and blinding snow squalls. Inauguration Day 2021.
Thanks you guys for traveling the distance. It was one of the best and fun to share.
Kit glad to hear you have gotten so many people out on the ice over the past weeks. Thanks for your efforts. Any pictures? I want to get up on our homepage.
Is there any talk of a gathering to sail this Wednesday 1/20 or Thursday 1/21? Also, this Saturday 1/23 Sunday 1/24 look like there will be enough wind to get into trouble with. Any rumors, talk, best bets on locations, scouting by locals?
My son and I are planning to meet up at Monomonac tomorrow morning around 830-930, at the public launch (just S of the “Convenience Store of Rindge”, apparently, on Rte 202 at the MA/NH border), sailing until early afternoon. I’m not sure if that’s a “meetup”, but at least it’s someone. 🙂
4 DNs and 2 other boats sailed Round Lake in NY today (1/18/21) on 8.5 conditions and fair if not a but shifty and gusty wind. Tomorrow’s conditions are forecast to be similar. I was one of the 4 and may go again tomorrow.
I didn’t go yesterday but from those that did there is about 1″ of light fluffy snow on both Round and Saratoga but little wind. Several will be at one or the other around 11-12 today so should have a better idea then. Wind forecast (for what it’s worth) is 10 mph. John – DN5653 (but sailing under 1811 sail.
01/22/2021 at 10:13 am
martin cawley
Thanks John If you can relay any info from todays action (this evening) Ill head up tomorrow AM. Get to either location around 10am I expect. Look forward to meeting you and some new friends as a first timer on yourlocal ice
01/22/2021 at 5:00 pm
Kit Tucker
Pete is out sailing on Monomonoc. The thin layer of water froze last night. Great conditions right now with a stiff breeze. Cold again tonight
will make it even better tomorrow. Any mid week sailers out there? Good parking. I’m available to help carry and set up if needed.
Hi Kit, John from the club was going to go out from Coots Bay but I told him over on my side the wind is breaking the ice up. Thw shore line is open here out about 10′ at least. Think I will wait till Friday or so
Hello everyone, I have finally bought a DN here on Lake Monomonock. (Many spellings of this lake). I am a past commodore of the “Soft water sailors” MLSA. (Monomonac Lake Sailing Association) I am in the process of joining, but don’t have Paypal so I will have to do it the snail mail way. I know Kit Tucker down the other end of the lake, and also know of four or five sailors who are interested in trying this sport. I will be glad to give ice reports. There are at least 7 other ice boats here that I know of, so we have hopes of getting these boats out if the conditions permit. The ice now is soft after the rain. We have a pebble surface, with a total of about 4″ of ice. I have hopes of good ice about Wednesday. I will let you know! Chip Hastings
For the New Hampshire sailors, just skated Lake Wentworth in Wolfeboro. Consistent 3+ inches of grey ice with pebbly surface very little snow in small thin patches. One small pressure ridge building. 90% of lake scouted. Remember there is always thin ice somewhere.
Anyone sailing in Wolfeboro, NH or surrounding area Sunday? I’m a newbie and would love to sail with some people that can give me some tips. Let me know please! Send me a text. 617-216-9655
We are all looking for more ice! The last snow front was cruel to the few plates we had so we are in a waiting game now. Unfortunately the temps are mild this week so not much ice making now. Please folks, don’t be shy. We need to hear about new plates so somebody can go check them. Rule #1 – never check ice alone! If you are the first to go out be sure to do it wisely. If you have never been scouting before be sure to have an expert teach you. With the right safety gear it can be done with minimal risk.
Old King Colds reach is bold…. it won’t be long now.
VC Jay Whitehair
I have scouted a Turkey Pond in Concord, close to me, the plate is 50 just ice, 50 covered in a dusting. Not a very big pond, but definitely sailable. I7.5 inches of ice is what I have found. I may give it a go on Saturday if we have wind! And nothing else turns up.
Phil looks kinda small but If you are local it just may scratch that ice itch. Can you provide some launch info and do you feel comfortable people contacting you. This is a small time area so I would be warry about bringing in aboard of sailors. Reach out to me or karen with details.
For Turkey pond, anyone should feel free to call me or email me about Turkey pond – phil.gaynor@gmail.com. – 757-705-1309. it is only .25 miles from my house. I fat fingered the Ice thickness, it is 7.5 inches, not 17.5. My drill went through the middle of it quickly, and then it was much harder for the last 2 inches, so there is a layer of softer ice in the middle, but 2-3 inches of hard ice on top. There will be a lot of tacking, but better than sitting on the couch! I’ll launch at about 9:00 on Saturday (depending on wind). If interested let me know and I’ll be sure to be there at 9:00 or before, the launch area is off Clinton street in Concord. It is a natural ramp area with quite a few rocks in the road, but still passable. Here is a link to a map:https://naturalatlas.com/boat-launches/turkey-pond-2119766
If this ice is in good shape there may be a bigger plate near by too, I’ll be scouting that out later today – Friday 1/8/21.
I too love the Thule racks and accessories. They have a mast holder (used for windsurfing gear) as well as various rollers to help with loading as well as kayak cradles. The base bars can hold all the weight easily. And I’m loading up to a suburban so other then the height challenge, its perfect
I cartopped my DN on a toyota truck for years; it had an angle-iron bracket on it that held the boat nicely. Also cartopped it on a camry. I have a trailer now that I’m schlepping a couple of boats, and I agree with Ken — cartop is just about as fast. The advantage of the trailer is that for a weekend of sailing, you can roll it out onto the ice (sometimes), and that as you get older (!), the business of hefting the boat off the top of the car can get harder. But there’s almost always someone willing to take 2 minutes to help you.
An easy start up is a canoe rack on your car top with the quick release type straps. Boat, mast and plank can go up top and the rest of your kit in the car. EMS canoe straps work great. Dedicate one set to the boat to be sure it is hanked down nicely. I’ve also seen people using the cradle type kayak saddles. Just toss the hull in the saddles and strap it snug. That looked easy. See you on the ice and welcome!
Ice strength varies depending on how old it is. New is strongest. We look for plus 4 inches but remember there is always variations in thickness. I urge you to scout ice with someone with experience. Never sail alone!
New England Ice Yacht Association 
Anyone planning on sailing Quaboag Saturday?
01/20/2022 at 12:11 pm
Or even tomorrow? Can anyone tell us faraway folks whether it’s snowed in or not? It’s not clear from the national weather service just how much snow that area got.
01/20/2022 at 5:49 pm
Michael-I’d be very interested the next time you go, and may have one or 2 others to join us. Hope to meet up with you at some point.
01/24/2022 at 10:49 am
mike
jonathan here. i bought a boat from you a while back. give me a call sometime please. thank you
cell 237 2665 home 331 2577
01/25/2022 at 1:29 pm
I have a report that Lake Massabesic (Manchester NH) has ice. I am thinking about tomorrow (Thursday 1/20). Can anyone confirm? Would anyone like to join me?
01/19/2022 at 6:31 pm
I’m potentially interested, esp. if you get some confirmation this evening. You can send me email: jfhext ; that’s a gmail address.
–John Hughes
01/19/2022 at 6:44 pm
Thanks for the report John. Sorry I can’t join you today, but would love to know how the ice was for tomorrow maybe.
01/20/2022 at 7:32 am
Four boats on Quaboag yesterday (Sunday 1/16). Very light winds till about 3:00. Then some good running. We all quit when getting dark.
01/17/2022 at 12:02 pm
About four or five boats sailed on Quaboag (East Brookfield, MA) today. At noon the ice had patchy snow on it; by 3PM, that snow was all either sublimated or wetted out. There was enough breeze to be fun without it ever being … exciting. To the SW of the launch site there’s a bay that was apparently open water a couple of days ago, and folks were avoiding it. Well to the E of the launch site there’s a place where a river flows in and there’s open water over there (as usual) as well. And at the foot of the ramp there was a large puddle — if someone can bring some planks, it’ll be a godsend. The ice itself was amazingly flat and smooth — none of that “rattling along on a NYC subway” feel that you sometimes get. It was also somewhat soft, because temps were in the 40s. Should harden up a bit tonight, and not soften too much tomorrow. Near the ramp it appeared to be about 3.5 inches thick … maybe a little more in some places and less in others. I would certainly not claim it was “safe”.
01/13/2022 at 6:47 pm
Thanks for the report John, it sounds like Quaboag may be the only place around right now? With the cold tonight and tomorrow, the safety rating should increase for the weekend! Keep us informed if you are on it again. Phil
01/14/2022 at 11:18 am
I won’t be there today or tomorrow, but might return on Sunday for a last shot before the snow/rain arrives.
01/14/2022 at 11:40 am
Lake Sunapee is iced over.. Should thicken up tonight and tomorrow.. Cold Tuesday (high of 6 w 13mph wind). I think Wed is the day to sail – High 28 wind 9 mph
01/10/2022 at 5:51 pm
Hi Mark, Did you get out on Sunapee this week? If so, did you rig at the state beach?
01/13/2022 at 6:32 pm
Little Lake Sunapee, Bucklin Beach , New London NH tomorrow (Thursday Jan 6) I will be there 11 AM. Wind forecast 10mph. Skaters coming as well.
01/05/2022 at 9:37 pm
Thanks Mark, it would be great to hear how the ice was after today. Hopefully the snow for Friday is lite.
01/06/2022 at 1:35 pm
Excellent sailing on Little Sunapee today. Snow forecast for overnight
01/06/2022 at 5:10 pm
The ice is good on Lake Mascoma (Enfield NH)
https://www.google.com/search?gs_ssp=eJzj4tTP1TcwszSLTzdg9OLJScxOVchNLE7Oz00EAFjlB58&q=lake+mascoma&oq=lake+mascoma&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j46i512j0i512l2j46i175i199i512j0i512j0i22i30j69i61.9566j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
I will be launching from the Shaker bridge parking area. Better wind forecast for the afternoon.
Mark Friedman
01/03/2022 at 7:28 pm
Thanks Mark. Please let us know what the thickness is after you sail. I hope to arrange my week to get there!
01/03/2022 at 9:07 pm
EXcellant sailing on little Sunapee today. Snow forecast for tonight.
01/06/2022 at 5:08 pm
A small fleet of one Arrow and one DN sailed yesterday (12/28) on Galway Lake in NY. Limited access but ice was good as was the breeze.
12/29/2021 at 8:51 pm
Newbie sailer question. I saw that some sailers have quick-pins to secure the runners to their brackets. I’m looking for advice on what kind of quick-pins I should be looking for to replace the bolt and nuts I have. They work fine, but they seem cumbersome in cold weather. Is there a particular type that works better than others? Any advice would be appreciated. -Ben
10/13/2021 at 9:34 am
Ben, sorry for the long delay answering your question. Runner alignment on iceboats is the key to speed and for this reason most runners are snugged tight in their chocks with bolts. Once all the space between the runner and chock is gone we back off the bolt 1/8 to 1/4 turn or just enough so the runner can easily bump up and over small ice chunks. I’m not familiar with sailors using quick pins for this connection (as you ask) but I know we use them for connecting the stays to the plank which is very handy when fingers are cold. With the runners snug in their chocks it becomes clear that chock alignment is critical when setting up your boat for the season. Hope this helps!
VC J Whitehair
12/19/2021 at 7:21 pm
A cordless electric drill and the proper socket makes quick work of the nuts
01/03/2022 at 7:30 pm
Wanted: schematic(s) to retrofit pedal steering in a Yankee ice yacht (original wheel steering in place)
Would like to have both/redundant systems in this boat.
Thank You,
Eddie
08/22/2021 at 12:49 pm
Wanted: wood mast for a Yankee ice yacht
Thank You,
Eddie
08/22/2021 at 12:44 pm
I am looking to make steering on my new boat less twitchy. Has anyone found a mechanism that changes pedal or tiller input to runner angle that changes over the range? Cars typically have this so its ratio varies from on center to near limit. On center ratio reduction of 3:1 maybe and quickly going to 1:1. This is not a rationl of paralleogram arm issue. Simple if possible. Thanks.
06/28/2021 at 12:46 pm
According to CIBC, there is good ice at Moosehead in Maine. They are reporting ice tight to shore. They are going to repost Thursday pm. The weather forecasts 6.9-5.1 mph wind, 18 degrees Thursday night, 33 degrees on Friday. Launch is at The Birches in Rockport. Is anyone interested an a last iceboat trip? Please contact me.
Mike Roberts
203-410-3364
03/31/2021 at 7:56 pm
SUNDAY SAILING? Anyone sailing near Ossipee, NH, eastern NH/western ME?
03/07/2021 at 7:12 am
How’s the parking at Webster? How’s the ice at quaboag? How do I post this? I checked The Nip in Bridgewater, open, no ice at all. Canton Res look rough, maybe a 2 in the good spots. What a URL?
03/05/2021 at 8:12 pm
Boat Launch at Waterside Mary’s for 1 car / trailer at a time. one unloaded, park across the street in the lot.
Waterside Mary’s located at
114 Point Breeze Rd, Webster, MA 01570
Have fun!
03/05/2021 at 9:28 pm
sailing on Quannapowitt wenesday two windsurfers flying 40 plus wind speed . plan on setting up the DN’s thursday fri. and into the weekend if the ice holds it’s form .Quannapowitt is in Wakefield Ma. Go to the end of Linda rd. to launch at the yacht club.
03/03/2021 at 11:14 am
Can someone with experience please tell us all what the best type and size of drill bit that should be used to check ice thickness? I have tried a few types of drills, borers, etc. and they are as slow as molasses. Thanks!
02/18/2021 at 9:30 am
In regards to drill testing ice, I use a standard battery drill with a 1” “flat drill bit” (google the term for those unfamiliar). It will drill the hole in about 6 seconds before the bit bottoms out at the motor. At this point I don’t care since that is around 5” which is good enough for me. After I drill a hole I insert a piece of 3/4” x1/8” x 15” aluminum flat bar that I have bent a right angle hook at the insertion end. The light weight bar is labeled in bold letters in 1” increments so at a glance I can read the thickness. The hook at the end allows me to hook it under the bottom of the ice to get a precise measurement. I always found chopping a hole not only energy wasteful but misleading via poor optics to guess the thickness.
When I am testing ice I tie into a rope and have a buddy with good ice cleats on the smarter (rear) end. We both have a minimum of picks and life jackets, and we prefer to have dry suits on too. I NEVER sail my boat to the next test hole, I always walk – sometimes i’ll walk behind my runner plank with the mast up but with no sail up. If I notice the ice is sketchy I can weight my plank and back out. Don’t do this alone.
Always have a throw bag to throw to the person in the water and be sure they have one to throw to you. When you are in the water you can’t back throw to another person without putting them at risk trying to get to it. Whistles are light to carry and have saved lives. Keep in mind you cannot assist in pulling anybody out of the water if you are on smooth ice unless you have cleats!
If somebody falls through and you are I doubt, call 911 immediately – call back to cancel if the emergency is mitigated.
02/18/2021 at 10:28 am
Great explanation on the ice drilling Jay!!
02/18/2021 at 12:25 pm
Thanks, Jay. I have one of those type of flat bits but never tried it on ice. Will do so soon.
02/23/2021 at 9:51 am
Ice, especially dirty ice or really hard black ice, can dull a drill bit quickly. Before you go out for a day of ice-checking, consider taking a file to the cutting edges and giving a few swipes over them to make your spade bit oh-so-much-more effective.
02/23/2021 at 10:36 am
I heard through the grapevine (Chelsea Yacht Club) that there will be ice boating in Athens, NY tomorrrow (Feb 13th). I would like to drive up and check out the sport. Anyone have any details or an idea of what to expect? Where specifically to meet up? Times?
Thanks for any intel.
Robert
02/12/2021 at 1:15 pm
Hello! I recently moved (back) to Boston from the Bay Area where I sailed a lot so now looking for ways to sail in the winter. Does anyone know of places where one could rent ice boats or take lessons (within 3 hours of Boston)?
Thank you!
02/11/2021 at 3:52 pm
Lake Wentworth in Wolfboro NH has very good ice. Access from albee allen beach.
Lake Winnipesaukee is even better with some areas of 8 inch thick awesome black ice. Access from Leavitt Beach in Meredith NH. Beware the broads south of Steamboat island looks great but was only 1/2 inch today.
Skated / scouted 20 miles of ice today. Tomorrow is the last day to sail before the “big snow”
01/31/2021 at 7:01 pm
Bolton Bay Lake George yesterday had waves, today a clear sheet of black ice. Probably not thick enough yet but soon. Will post videos on ice boats of Saratoga NY face book page.
01/30/2021 at 8:41 pm
Any sailing going on Saturday 1/30/21? Has the snow put a stop sailing for now?
01/29/2021 at 8:41 am
“Iceitis” is still running rampant on Lake Monomonoc. The search for a cure continues.
We’re planning a FULL MOON sail tomorrow night if conditions are favorable.
Always wanted to do it.
01/26/2021 at 9:17 am
Anyone interested in sailing on Massabesic outside of Manchester, NH?
01/25/2021 at 7:00 am
Yes…but not until Thursday, alas. Do you know anything about the conditions there?
01/25/2021 at 8:17 am
Kiteboarders sailed it on Saturday & Sunday. They reported (with pics) grade 7 clear with a few pressure ridges. They were sailing in 30+ mph winds.
01/25/2021 at 9:38 am
If the the snow holds off or is light, I plan to be there with my Lockley Skimmer on Saturday. Have you had a chance to check out the ice?
01/25/2021 at 8:37 pm
Hoping to be there as well — DN.
01/28/2021 at 10:58 am
If the upcoming snow does not make conditions unsailable, I plan on going to Massabesic this Saturday.
01/26/2021 at 9:54 am
I would like to sail Massabesic on Saturday too. I’m a CIBC member with a Lockley Skimmer. Where is the boat ramp?
01/28/2021 at 6:34 pm
Sailed Lake Sunapee today. Winds gusting to >20 MPH were challenging, but the ice is improving. Snow drifts alternate with scoured ice in places ,but there is a large plate of good sailable ice off the state beach. The hole has healed over (3in thick). Tomorrow is forecast for 10 MPH winds and sunny.
01/24/2021 at 9:12 pm
Is any one sailing on lake contookock in Jaffery NH, Monomonac in Ringe NH or Lake Spofford today Sunday 1/24/2021?
01/24/2021 at 11:25 am
Lake Sunapee
The wind has scoured the ice off the state beach. There is an expanse of grey ice where we were sailing yesterday with some residual snow giving it a scalloped appearance . Looks fast.
Temp is now 10 f w wind chill -8f. 19f forecast by noon.
The problem is the wind which is howling at 20 mph.
Tomorrow is forecast for noon temp 23f winds 11 mph and sunny.
Tomorrow (Monday) is THE DAY!
Mark
01/24/2021 at 8:57 am
I’m with Mark on Sunapee. Wind is up. Great sailing – can easily move through the uber light snow. I marked the hole off the state beach. Easy parking and access. The wind forecasted for the weekend dictates some broken boats are inevitable. I’ll be running cones as long as my hardware and I can hang on. Did I say great sailing?! Beware: up the lake off Sunapee light is another large hole, not currently marked. A large area race course size plate is one bay up from here. One pressure ridge to cross.
Ice claws and throw ropes save lives – don’t sail without!
VC Jay Whitehair
01/22/2021 at 1:32 pm
Lake Sunapee has large areas of 3-4 inch ice and 8-10 inches on the southern end. Snow coverage is 1 inch avg. The wind is coming up now (7 mph). I will be out there this afternoon. Tomorrow wind forecast up to 17 mph.
01/22/2021 at 12:27 pm
Boats reported sailing on Round Lake now (noon 1/22/21). Wind fair, ice fair. Some reports of boats heading up to Saratoga.
01/22/2021 at 12:20 pm
Thar she blows!! Little early……Flag is flapping…..Looks good.
01/22/2021 at 10:18 am
What about South Pond in Brookfield?
01/22/2021 at 11:42 am
Ralph,
Our guy in the area has checked recently and it is not ready. It did however set up multiple times only to be blown out by the various storms that rolled through.
John
01/22/2021 at 1:35 pm
No wind out at the flag on Commodore Island yet this morning. Monomonock takes a few hours before the wind comes up…We shall see. Ice is 6″ with a thin dusting of snow. When you get to the main part of the lake, there is only one rock reef in the middle which has markers around it. Stay to the shore line to go around. I do not have a launch area to offer. I’m on a steep hill and have to use a different area to lauch. I am lucky to be able to use the property myself.
01/22/2021 at 9:00 am
Where do people launch for Monomoc?
01/22/2021 at 9:06 am
Can anyone confirm or deny knowledge of relatively clear sailable ice on Wentworth Lake in NH?
Thanks for any responses
Ed
01/21/2021 at 7:36 pm
Ed we are looking into how much snow they got but it probably isn’t a lot but caution with hazzards covered.
01/21/2021 at 9:40 pm
Ed we are looking into how much snow they got but it probably isn’t a lot but caution with hazzards covered. Boots on the ground tomorrow morning will confirm
01/21/2021 at 10:17 pm
Thanks John!
Looks like switching gears and going to head up to Great Pond in Maine.
Heard the snow was limited up there and hoping sailable ice.
Ed
01/22/2021 at 7:09 am
Lake Sunapee has decent ice covered by about 1 inch of snow
On Fri, Jan 22, 2021 at 7:10 AM New England Ice Yacht Association wrote:
> Ed commented: “Thanks John! Looks like switching gears and going to head > up to Great Pond in Maine. Heard the snow was limited up there and hoping > sailable ice. Ed” >
01/22/2021 at 11:37 am
Sad news on Sunapee. 1-1/2” snow fell last night. The new snow is covering the the ice that just came in last night on two holes – one off the state beach and one off the Sunapee harbor light. Because these thin ice holes are man eaters and now camouflaged, I cannot vouch for safe sailing anymore. Please keep up the chatter if there is good sailing out there.
Thanks!
VC Jay Whitehair
01/21/2021 at 4:53 pm
Having problems posting on this forum….Sorry I missed you John. Lake Monomonock takes a few hours to wake up…Wind, if there is going to be any, usually begins around 11:00 A.M.I was out today at 11:00 and it was a good breeze. Maybe a little much for a rookie! I’m guessing 12-15 MPH.The form for signing up to pay dues is for the season 2019 to 2020? Let’s see if this post works Chip
01/21/2021 at 2:59 pm
Did the snow get blown off? I was just unwilling to mess with unknown hazards hidden by snow.
01/21/2021 at 6:04 pm
Monomonac: my son got there. About 1″ of light snow on the lake and no wind right now, so we’re calling off our plans…if we knew the lake and hazards, it might be worth the 2 hour drive, but we don’t, so… In the meantime, I’m gonna take a look at long pond in freetown, just in case…
01/21/2021 at 7:46 am
John let us know about long pond in MA. Have not heard anything out of that area for a while. Probably nothing to report. You do know Jay is set up at sunapee right
John
01/21/2021 at 8:38 am
Yeah…sunappee was tempting, but added another two hours to a day when I was already playing hookey (and my son had to be back in Boston by about 230 PM). I’ll let you know what I find at Long Pond. The brackish-water area near my home had a beautiful smooth sheet of ice on it this morning, but it’s probably only 1/2″ thick — I didn’t bother checking. But I figure that if brackish water is setting up, maybe Long Pond is worth a look.
01/21/2021 at 8:46 am
Long Pond is mostly open water. About 1/4″ thick ice near the ramp, extending out 20-30 yards, but it’ll take a lot more cold/calm/clear nights to do what’s needed here.
01/21/2021 at 1:43 pm
This Covid frustrated DN sailor will be running marks on Sunapee tomorrow (Thurs) and likely through the weekend. Launching from the State Park Beach on SW side of lake. Mark Freedman and I did a “Sunapee the Hard Way” today running from the beach all the way up to Sunapee harbor and discovered the large lake is in rare form. There are two open areas of concern: one at far side of lake opposite state beach 10’x20′, the other way up the lake, half way across lake from Sunapee harbor light – that hole is 60’x60′ – beware. One pressure ridge was easily crossable in that entire length of voyaging. BIG ice. Use all caution while discovering the lake. Never sail alone. Come run scratch races with me…. please keep Covid safe and stay at least 10′ away!
01/20/2021 at 10:02 pm
7 Boats on Monomonoc today. The ice was an 8 with plenty of wind. It will be cold tonight and warm again tomorrow afternoon. The best sailing will be from 8 am to 2-3 pm where the top layer many soften slightly. Future looks good. If you can’t find ice, you’re not looking.
01/19/2021 at 5:27 pm
Upstate NY group will sail tomorrow either at Round Lake (Round Lake Boat Launch) or Saratoga Lake (Brown’s Beach Boat Launch). Round Lake is a known commodity as we sailed there Monday. Saratoga Lake is bigger and reportedly has good ice but has not been fully checked yet. Will try to post here when details are firm, but may be out sailing instead of posting…
01/19/2021 at 7:00 pm
Saratoga Lake also has a good surface. Didn’t get to check it all out as the wind was a bit strong for this old f*rt. The surface was so good I must have slid 100 yards after being ejected from my DN as I attempted a jibe. Brown’s Beach offers access and parking, There are a few spots near the beach where streams enter that are open, but from what I saw at least most of the rest of the lake is fine. I expect some of the upstate gang will sail there tomorrow, maybe me too if the bruises aren’t too bad.
01/20/2021 at 6:41 pm
8 boats on Monomonoc today. Good ice, great wind and blinding snow squalls. Inauguration Day 2021.
Thanks you guys for traveling the distance. It was one of the best and fun to share.
01/20/2021 at 6:58 pm
Great speed today Kit! Thanks for the hospitality today.
01/20/2021 at 8:20 pm
Phil any pictures from today? Would love to get some coverage on our homepage.
John
DN5023
01/20/2021 at 9:09 pm
Kit glad to hear you have gotten so many people out on the ice over the past weeks. Thanks for your efforts. Any pictures? I want to get up on our homepage.
John
DN5023
01/20/2021 at 9:16 pm
Hi Kit, Are you game to host some more guests at your house this weekend? Phil.
01/22/2021 at 11:10 am
Is there any talk of a gathering to sail this Wednesday 1/20 or Thursday 1/21? Also, this Saturday 1/23 Sunday 1/24 look like there will be enough wind to get into trouble with. Any rumors, talk, best bets on locations, scouting by locals?
01/19/2021 at 5:04 pm
My son and I are planning to meet up at Monomonac tomorrow morning around 830-930, at the public launch (just S of the “Convenience Store of Rindge”, apparently, on Rte 202 at the MA/NH border), sailing until early afternoon. I’m not sure if that’s a “meetup”, but at least it’s someone. 🙂
01/20/2021 at 7:02 pm
4 DNs and 2 other boats sailed Round Lake in NY today (1/18/21) on 8.5 conditions and fair if not a but shifty and gusty wind. Tomorrow’s conditions are forecast to be similar. I was one of the 4 and may go again tomorrow.
01/18/2021 at 8:50 pm
Personally, I can’t make it until wed or Thursday but appreciate if you post updates tomorrow. I would make the drive from long Island if warranted.
01/18/2021 at 11:07 pm
Will update…
01/18/2021 at 11:17 pm
Any news on current conditions for Round or Saratoga? Did you folks get snow? Was thinking of driving north from LI tomorrow!
Thanks
01/22/2021 at 8:50 am
I didn’t go yesterday but from those that did there is about 1″ of light fluffy snow on both Round and Saratoga but little wind. Several will be at one or the other around 11-12 today so should have a better idea then. Wind forecast (for what it’s worth) is 10 mph. John – DN5653 (but sailing under 1811 sail.
01/22/2021 at 10:13 am
Thanks John If you can relay any info from todays action (this evening) Ill head up tomorrow AM. Get to either location around 10am I expect. Look forward to meeting you and some new friends as a first timer on yourlocal ice
01/22/2021 at 5:00 pm
Pete is out sailing on Monomonoc. The thin layer of water froze last night. Great conditions right now with a stiff breeze. Cold again tonight
will make it even better tomorrow. Any mid week sailers out there? Good parking. I’m available to help carry and set up if needed.
01/18/2021 at 1:45 pm
Hi Kit, John from the club was going to go out from Coots Bay but I told him over on my side the wind is breaking the ice up. Thw shore line is open here out about 10′ at least. Think I will wait till Friday or so
01/18/2021 at 2:42 pm
Hello everyone, I have finally bought a DN here on Lake Monomonock. (Many spellings of this lake). I am a past commodore of the “Soft water sailors” MLSA. (Monomonac Lake Sailing Association) I am in the process of joining, but don’t have Paypal so I will have to do it the snail mail way. I know Kit Tucker down the other end of the lake, and also know of four or five sailors who are interested in trying this sport. I will be glad to give ice reports. There are at least 7 other ice boats here that I know of, so we have hopes of getting these boats out if the conditions permit. The ice now is soft after the rain. We have a pebble surface, with a total of about 4″ of ice. I have hopes of good ice about Wednesday. I will let you know! Chip Hastings
01/17/2021 at 12:06 pm
Thanks, Chip — let us know on Wed night and I might just get the ice-flu on Thursday morning, esp. if you can provide a good place to launch.
01/17/2021 at 3:50 pm
I am trying to catch the same Ice Flu John wants this week too. Thanks for the update Chip
01/18/2021 at 10:31 am
Any update, Chip? And where’s a place to launch if my gear is in a trailer?
01/20/2021 at 6:47 pm
Anyone sailing this Sunday near Wolfeboro, NH or Ossipee, NH?
01/09/2021 at 8:07 pm
For the New Hampshire sailors, just skated Lake Wentworth in Wolfeboro. Consistent 3+ inches of grey ice with pebbly surface very little snow in small thin patches. One small pressure ridge building. 90% of lake scouted. Remember there is always thin ice somewhere.
01/08/2021 at 3:23 pm
Thank you Charlie!!
01/08/2021 at 3:26 pm
Anyone sailing in Wolfeboro, NH or surrounding area Sunday? I’m a newbie and would love to sail with some people that can give me some tips. Let me know please! Send me a text. 617-216-9655
01/09/2021 at 9:30 am
Hi Charlie
Regretfully, I don’t think I can sail on Saturday. Will you let me know if you are sailing on Sunday? I’d be interested in joining you.
01/08/2021 at 6:55 pm
Looking for suggestions where to find good ice for Jan 5, 2021
01/04/2021 at 5:41 pm
Charles I wish we knew of anything sailable. Soon yes . Tomorrow no. If you discover otherwise please let us know.
Stay on the ready. Ice is coming.
JJS
DN5023
01/04/2021 at 7:28 pm
We are all looking for more ice! The last snow front was cruel to the few plates we had so we are in a waiting game now. Unfortunately the temps are mild this week so not much ice making now. Please folks, don’t be shy. We need to hear about new plates so somebody can go check them. Rule #1 – never check ice alone! If you are the first to go out be sure to do it wisely. If you have never been scouting before be sure to have an expert teach you. With the right safety gear it can be done with minimal risk.
Old King Colds reach is bold…. it won’t be long now.
VC Jay Whitehair
01/04/2021 at 8:02 pm
I have scouted a Turkey Pond in Concord, close to me, the plate is 50 just ice, 50 covered in a dusting. Not a very big pond, but definitely sailable. I7.5 inches of ice is what I have found. I may give it a go on Saturday if we have wind! And nothing else turns up.
01/08/2021 at 8:53 am
Phil looks kinda small but If you are local it just may scratch that ice itch. Can you provide some launch info and do you feel comfortable people contacting you. This is a small time area so I would be warry about bringing in aboard of sailors. Reach out to me or karen with details.
John
01/08/2021 at 11:04 am
For Turkey pond, anyone should feel free to call me or email me about Turkey pond – phil.gaynor@gmail.com. – 757-705-1309. it is only .25 miles from my house. I fat fingered the Ice thickness, it is 7.5 inches, not 17.5. My drill went through the middle of it quickly, and then it was much harder for the last 2 inches, so there is a layer of softer ice in the middle, but 2-3 inches of hard ice on top. There will be a lot of tacking, but better than sitting on the couch! I’ll launch at about 9:00 on Saturday (depending on wind). If interested let me know and I’ll be sure to be there at 9:00 or before, the launch area is off Clinton street in Concord. It is a natural ramp area with quite a few rocks in the road, but still passable. Here is a link to a map:https://naturalatlas.com/boat-launches/turkey-pond-2119766
If this ice is in good shape there may be a bigger plate near by too, I’ll be scouting that out later today – Friday 1/8/21.
01/08/2021 at 12:25 pm
I too love the Thule racks and accessories. They have a mast holder (used for windsurfing gear) as well as various rollers to help with loading as well as kayak cradles. The base bars can hold all the weight easily. And I’m loading up to a suburban so other then the height challenge, its perfect
12/12/2020 at 8:16 am
I cartopped my DN on a toyota truck for years; it had an angle-iron bracket on it that held the boat nicely. Also cartopped it on a camry. I have a trailer now that I’m schlepping a couple of boats, and I agree with Ken — cartop is just about as fast. The advantage of the trailer is that for a weekend of sailing, you can roll it out onto the ice (sometimes), and that as you get older (!), the business of hefting the boat off the top of the car can get harder. But there’s almost always someone willing to take 2 minutes to help you.
12/11/2020 at 5:59 pm
An easy start up is a canoe rack on your car top with the quick release type straps. Boat, mast and plank can go up top and the rest of your kit in the car. EMS canoe straps work great. Dedicate one set to the boat to be sure it is hanked down nicely. I’ve also seen people using the cradle type kayak saddles. Just toss the hull in the saddles and strap it snug. That looked easy. See you on the ice and welcome!
12/11/2020 at 11:06 pm
First signs of ice on Lake Monomonoc , NH this morning. The water temperature must be low. Won’t be long now
12/07/2020 at 5:43 pm
I’ve never sailed there; where’s the access to the ice (when it comes)?
12/11/2020 at 5:55 pm
Planning on trying Bantam morning of January 11, 2020. Looks like the most likely possibility, but will need to check carefully.
01/10/2020 at 9:23 pm
Ice strength varies depending on how old it is. New is strongest. We look for plus 4 inches but remember there is always variations in thickness. I urge you to scout ice with someone with experience. Never sail alone!
12/26/2018 at 8:51 pm
How come there’s no ice boat on that great graphic?
01/12/2023 at 6:54 pm