Quaboag 2/22/25 Bob S. Scout and the girls from Scout Troop 1175
As expected, it’s been a mild and occasionally wet stretch, with just enough warmth to soften and wet out the surface but not quite enough to get us back on the big lake ice this week.
That said, there are a couple of bright spots: Quaboag Pond and Webster Lake, both under the watchful eye of our intrepid scout, Bob S. A cold snap is here and should help firm things up with potential opportunities this Sunday. Not tomorrow as the ice needs another day to set up. If you head to Webster, be sure to swing by Waterfront Mary’s for a coffee or a beer. They have supported us so lets turn the favor.
We’re also keeping tabs on a few other regional spots, including Bantam Lake in Connecticut and Lake Massabesic in New Hampshire. If things take a turn for the better, we’ll be sure to share the good news.
As we transition from meteorological to astronomical spring, one thing is certain: caution is key. The ice is in decline, and a night or two of freezing temperatures won’t bring back the solid black ice of midseason.
Quaboag 2/27 AMWebster Lake 2/27/ AM
I checked Quaboag this morning and the snow is gone, the ice is wetting out, two trucks on the ice on the left side of the ramp.
The parkinglot is almost bare, but the ramp has ice standing up, it may lay down by the weekend, there is good ice bout sides of the parking lot.
Webster also is snow free,and i’ve been working on the access by Waterfront Marys, it should be good enough to back up to the ice by the weekend.
The narrows from middle pond to south pond are still in good shape, cold weather Sunday and Monday.
There should be enough wind to run around the islands like two weeks ago.
Bob S
Stay patient, stay safe, and keep the Ice Faith—there’s still a chance we get one last run before the season slips away.
Pre-Spring’s fickle touch is in full effect, and all eyes are on our big lakes along with a few smaller ones that still hold suitable thickness. With daytime temperatures consistently above freezing and overnight refreezes, conditions are in flux. A bit of precipitation is expected Thursday to help the resurface process, but come Friday and into the weekend, colder air will return, firming up softened surfaces and if luck is on our side offering up a large sailing surface.
That said, smaller lakes and ponds won’t fare as well. The rapid swings in temperature mean they simply won’t recover to a safe, sailable state. These venues won’t survive the volatility, so don’t take unnecessary risks.
Stay tuned, keep your gear ready, and be prepared to travel on short notice. Follow the forecasts closely, and join us tomorrow night at 6:30 for the latest updates, a recap of the past week including Bob S’s youth (Scout) outreach last Saturday, and an open discussion on all things iceboating.
While most of New England’s lakes and ponds remain buried under layers of snow, we continue to search for ice. A small group will be scouting and assessing the ever-changing conditions on Watuppa tomorrow Saturday 2/21.
Another possibility is Webster Lake, as reported by Bob S. last night. However, launching may be challenging, and a fishing derby is underway, which could complicate access.
Meanwhile, an iceboat demonstration for a group of Scouts is planned on Quaboag. As of now, the ice has not been confirmed as sailable, but boat(s) will be displayed onshore regardless. If you’re available, come by and help spread the word—setup begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Bob could use some help so get out to Quaboag for a couple hours.
A reminder: Although we’ve had a stretch of cold days, the lengthening daylight signals the transition to spring ice conditions. Ice is in a constant state of flux, and shorelines are beginning to pull away. this is especially true of bodies of water in the southern regions of New England. I this time of year is here today and gone tomorrow. Stay safe—never venture out alone, and treat all ice with caution until it has been thoroughly evaluated.
Speaking of spring we have eyes on our bigger lakes and maybe just maybe with a couple thaw and freeze cycles big lakes like Winni might make themselves available for a right around the corner Spring event.
Think Ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
02/21/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Checking Where The Snow Isn’t
South Watuppa Pond 1/17/09 – Bill Converse – Who do you see on the ice?
Winter in New England has never been easy, especially for those in pursuit of the elusive perfect ice. While the past week’s weather may have discouraged some, seasoned ice boaters know the game: patience, persistence, and a keen eye on the conditions. This season has already seen the revival of classic venues—some long dormant—stretching from the New England states into the Hudson Valley and the Adirondacks. With such a vast expanse of possibilities, the challenge isn’t just finding the ice—it’s getting there.
Today, eyes are on Wattupa Pond in Fall River, where scouts are out assessing conditions. Early reports are promising, and we’ll have a clearer assessment today and tomorrow. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
Meanwhile, a local Scout troop in Massachusetts is set to camp near Quaboag Pond this Saturday and has expressed interest in an ice boating demonstration. While the ice’s sailability remains uncertain, volunteers interested in sharing the sport are encouraged to coordinate with event leader Caryn on our Thursday call. We will have our usual ice checkers in attendence for any questions etc.
There are also reports of good ice on Budd Lake off Rt 80 in NJ as well as up on the Hudson in Athens, NY. There should be a good variety of all styles of iceboats old and new for those interested in some variety.
For those ready to chase the ice, this could be the week. Stay sharp, stay safe, and keep an eye on the forecast.
Bob S. has been scouting locally two days ago and offers his observations.
Stopped by Quaboag today, some grey ice and some snow, it could come around in a few days, not sailable yet .temp today 20: wind 40 + snow squalls
Webster was all greyed out with 1/5 of frozen slush with 1/5 wet slush under the top layer, looks promising will check again tomorrow.
Access is messed up at Marys and parkinglot is not plowed , but can be carried on,access from 193 at waterski club has some spots to get on.
Think Ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
02/19/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Finding Ice Here & There
NEIYA members cut across all iceboating activities. As reported by Secretary Karen Binder and others we have a good showing at the DN Worlds on lake Winnebago. But of course ice activities go on back home whenever possible. Proving yet again the best ice is heavily weighted towards that closest to your back door. And often not something that can be planned in advance. Note, Bob S’s scouting mission to Webster also turned into a good day of sailing.
Rewards come to those that venture out. And many scouting trips are a bust but the rewards can be good and sometimes great.
Brian Langley reports on a group that had a successful day on Long Pond yesterday.
Long pond today. Lite winds till 2pm then switch and came up. We managed 27 miles and top speed at around 39mph. Winds built to around 7mph till 3.30. One big lead we marked out.
Note observed hazard on Long Pond and a reminder that no ice is ever completely safe
I’ll be heading out to the other Winne, Lake Winnebago in 90 min. The Silver fleet starts out with their second race followed by gold’s second and Bronze’s third and so on. But first I have to pack up as I must change hotels today. One of the joys of traveling, dealing with the unexpected.
From Fond Du Lac, Think Ice and hopefully melt that white stuff off out New England lakes before I return.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P. S. I’ll have pictures of NEIYA competitors soon.
As winter holds strong, some of our favorite inland spots remain buried beneath crusty snow. But along the coasts and rivers, the scene was alive with action. The usual crowd of dedicated enthusiasts was joined by newcomers eager to embrace local ice conditions—some waiting as long as a decade for the chance.
On S. Watuppa Pond in Fall River, MA, a gathering took place from Friday through the weekend. The previosly reported New England Championship took place and there were other crafts of out as well including several Wizz and other crafts.
Other New Hampshire lakes were scouted but found wanting, with surfaces marred by crust or offering only small patches of clear ice. Among the lakes checked were Newfound and Massabesic, both falling short of expectations for safe or enjoyable conditions. But regadless people did sail including VC Charlie and his wife Ann.
Several others made the most of what was available, sailing two, three, or more days split between Watuppa and Webster lakes. I personally ventured across the Throgs Neck Bridge to Long Island’s Lake Ronkonkoma for a meetup with local iceboaters. Meanwhile, the “Iron man” Bob S. logged his sixth consecutive day of sailing on Webster Lake—a feat worthy of applause. His detailed report follows below.
A Thriving Community on Ronkonkoma’s Ice
At Lake Ronkonkoma, I discovered a bustling winter wonderland. People of all ages were out on the ice—playing hockey, gliding on skates, boarding, strolling, and, of course, iceboating. The iceboats ranged from DNs of various vintages to Skimmers, Gambits, a BDX, and even a historic stern-steerer built locally in Ronkonkoma back in 1920.
For many, including me, this was a special occasion. The lake hasn’t frozen in about 15 years, and being back brought a flood of memories. It was here, some 30 years ago, that I launched my first DN on a Saturday, with a blizzard forecast looming for Sunday. Coming full circle, it was a joy to reconnect with the vibrant Long Island iceboating community, who clearly made the most of this rare freeze.
Other regional sailing took place in NJ on the Navesink and Hudon River at Athens, NY. The good ice at Athens brought out the vintage stern steerers effortlesly moving over the ice with the power of momentum.
We had a few newbies with a strong interest to join in on the fun of iceboating. We hope to see them back out during the rest of the season. Please drop me an email if you have any other questions.
Just got back (1/27/25) from day 6 on Webster lake great wind and the ice is getting better every day,i took my boat home
The wind is suppose 15 to 20 with gust to 40 tomorrow, good time to check my gear and get ready for the next good day somewhere.
We had 5 sailers today two guys from NH with old DNs very good sailers ,we got to go into south pond and do some ice we had not sailed in a few years.
Trying to recruit new sailers tell Karen i have new young blood in a pink snow suit.
Bob S.
Below are some pictures from the New Englands. Thanks to long time member and form voice of the Ice Hot Line Jeff Soderholm,
NE’s 1st Place Finisher James “T” Thieler 1-25-25 – Soderholm2nd Place Karen Binder3rd Place RC Paul Chamberland4th Place Jeff RoseberySome Close Mark RoundingsRC Paul ripping it upAwaiting their Pilot
I can’t predict the future but it does look like Webster will remain in play for a time and we can hope that the crud on some of our lakes will melt down. The bigger lakes may come into play stay tuned.
The upcoming DN Gold Cub and NA’s will peel off some 14 members but the ice show will go on with force throughout New England and the Northeast. Stay tuned ans see you on the ice soon.
South Watuppa Pond 1/24/25 – Watuppa Pond Weather Station
Groups were out on Webster and S. Watuppa. The Race gang, as you know, will be setting up marks and hosting the New England Championships. Read T’s reports from earlier in the day for details. Cruisers will certainly be back so come on down. Bob S. and company will be sailing on Webster tomorrow. Details below.
For those interested in the Watuppa area weather a local weather station can be reached on Weather Underground for hyper focused wind etc. reporting. Check it out here and thanks Alex.
We have a couple newbies coming down to Watuppa tomorrow. Be on the alert and share whatever you know about iceboating.
Webster Lake: Open and ready for action, with confirmed activity reported by local ice sailor Bob S. launching from Waterfront Mary’s 103 Birch Island Rd, Webster, MA 01570 – unload than move vehicles to the parking lot across the street.
Long Pond, Lakeville: Sailing has been underway for days, and a strong turnout is expected this weekend. No reports of people sailing there at the moment but would not be surprised if some launch tomorrow
Watuppa Pond, Fall River: Recently sailed and ready to go some will be out Friday an into the weekend I’m sure Jefferson St Ext, Fall River, MA 02721
Quaboag Pond: Off-limits this weekend due to the Lions Club Annual Fishing Derby. However, organizers assure fans that the venue will be back in the mix soon.
Ashumet Pond: Locked up but awaiting further scouting, as noted by Brian Langley.
New York: In an exciting development, Lake Ronkonkoma on Long Island is making waves in the ice boating community. After a decade-long hiatus, the lake has been scouted and sailed, and plans are underway for the Long Island Championship Regatta, tomorrow hosted by the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat and Yacht Club. With final confirmation expected soon, the regatta promises to attract a diverse fleet of racers and cruisers.
New Jersey:
And the long wait at Redbank is over. It is reported that they will be sailing over the weekend and people will likely be out tomorrow.
See you on the ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
01/24/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on This Weekend 1/25-26
South Watuppa Pond, Fall River MA – Via Doug Sharp
Reap the Cold Sow. After the good cold encountered across the entire region, it is time to get out and take advantage of the good ice left behind. Many places that we have not sailed in years are in play. As we always say
Massachusetts has returned and as one web comment stated we are “finally seeing ice that is not in Maine”. Not that there is anything wrong with Maine. Many of us have spent countless days on her lakes and ponds over the past couple years. Below is what we know right now. More details will likely come out on tonight’s call.
Webster Lake: Open and ready for action, with confirmed activity reported by local ice sailor Bob S. launching from Waterfront Mary’s 103 Birch Island Rd, Webster, MA 01570 – unload than move vehicles to the parking lot across the street.
Long Pond, Lakeville: Sailing has been underway for days, and a strong turnout is expected this weekend.
Watuppa Pond, Fall River: Recently sailed and ready to go some will be out Friday an into the weekend I’m sure Jefferson St Ext, Fall River, MA 02721
Quaboag Pond: Off-limits this weekend due to the Lions Club Annual Fishing Derby. However, organizers assure fans that the venue will be back in the mix soon.
Ashumet Pond: Locked up but awaiting further scouting, as noted by Brian Langley.
New York: In an exciting development, Lake Ronkonkoma on Long Island is making waves in the ice boating community. After a decade-long hiatus, the lake has been scouted and sailed, and plans are underway for the Long Island Championship Regatta, hosted by the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat and Yacht Club. With final confirmation expected soon, the regatta promises to attract a diverse fleet of racers and cruisers.
This season’s return of ice sailing is a testament to the passion and perseverance of our community. For more details and event schedules, visit iceboatlongisland.com for more info on Lake Ronkonkoma
Other New York venues are still under review—stay tuned for updates.
New Jersey:
And the long wait at Redbank is over. It is reported that they will be sailing over the weekend and people will likely be out tomorrow.
Seeking advice on upgrade to Arrow Iceboat Front Runner Chock Steering. I am looking for advice on adding oilite bushing tubes and a spring to the front steering chock on my 1970’s vintage arrow iceboat. Full writeup with pictures here
I will be on the call tonight or reach out to me at ted15921594@gmail.com
Thanks,
Ted
Join in on tonight’s call to discuss the above venues and if you have any advice for Ted’s Arrow steering refit please chime in or email him
See you on the ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
01/23/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Time To Reap The Cold Sow
All good things come to an end — and this week, it was nature’s turn to remind us. A classic bout of New England’s unpredictable weather threw us a curve, but we’re nothing if not resilient. With colder temperatures settling in, the conditions are just right to build ice thickness and potentially freeze over some of the open water on our larger lakes.
Keep an eye on our larger lakes for new ice formation, and don’t forget to report updates on the lakes we’ve been sailing on.
On that note, Bob S. has a report to share.
We got about 4 inches of snow from the storm, the good news is its 90 percent grey today the temp is supposed to be 23 for a high today.
Colder the rest of the week . We have a chance of sailing by Wednesday? I will keep an eye on it.
An old NEIYA staple in Fall River South Watuppa Pond was sailed yesterday. Rick Bishop reports in for the group.
Six NEIYA boats enjoyed exciting sailing today on South Watupa in Fall River . 10-12 mph winds with gusts well over 15 resulted in fast sailing on the big plate. As temperatures rose a 1/2” of water added to the speed! South Watupa is unique with Rte. 195 directly adjacent with cars traveling at similar speeds!
Rick DN5540
We are waiting to hear the news from Day two of the Easterns. And of course what effect the impending system brings to the ice we have now.
Think Ice,
John
01/19/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on South Watuppa Sailed 1/18/25
Good evening iceboaters. Appoligies for the late post on conditions. I am just finished loading up the car and in just a few short hours will be on the road to Lake Winnipesaukee launching from Ellacoya State Park in Guilford, NH. As you already know the IDNIYRA Eastern Championships will be held. As T stated earlier today the even is open to DNs of any vintage and there will be prizes for vintage crafts. Come on out and join in.
Regardless of whether you are racing or cruising the is is smooth plenty thick and pretty big. This doent mean there are not hazards check with locals or those that have been out earlier and sail heads up till you personally know what you are sailing on.
Ace ice spotter Bob S. reports in on Quabaog and Lake Chaubunagungamaug aka Webster Lake.
Wind was light so we setup and checked the ice in front of Waterfront Marys on Webster Lake (103 Birch Island Rd, Webster, MA). Note mindful not to block access to the lake. Unload or load your car than park accross the street.
You can cover more area in a ice boat than walking,the only hassard was a large opening on the end of union point, the right shore in front of Marys
it extends almost two hundred yards. We sailed as far as Point Breeze, the surface was snow covered in some spots and bare in other places with drifts similar to Quaboag.
We never got to North pond or South pond but they look like the rest of the lake. The narrows are still frozen over,with more wind tomorrow we may be able to the other parts of the lake.
Three boats are set up at Marys ready to sail in the morning, people stopped by and said they would be fishing in the morning.
I guess most of New England has the same conditions .
Bob S
Webster Lake 1/17/25 – Mike AceboWebster Lake 1/17/25 – Mike AceboWebster Lake 1/17/25 – Mike Acebo
Other happenings
Long Pond, Freetown, MA (211 Middleboro Rd E.) A group of experienced sailors will return to Long Pond to reassess its potential. Initial scouting reports revealed 3-5 inches of ice in most areas, with smaller, recently healed holes measuring 2.5-4 inches. Updates on tomorrow’s findings will follow.
Lake Sunapee, NH Sailors plan to take to Sunapee tomorrow. Mark has reported fresh, black ice in the broads that formed after Saturday’s snowfall, creating a potential playground for ice boating enthusiasts.
Watuppa Pond, Fall River, MA Watuppa Pond will sailed tomorrow by a few locals.
Quaboag Pond, Brookfield, MA Quaboag should be sailable this tomorrow usual suspects have opted to go back to Webster
As we all know, and I know just about all of us are active weather forecast readers, there is some weather coming in. Get out while you can and remember this pending system may change what was good ice and rescouting may be required.
Think Ice and Sail Fast,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
01/17/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Weekend Opportunities Before the Weather Moves In
As the ice thickens and conditions improve, seasoned sailors are gearing up to scout and sail key locations across New England tomorrow. Here’s the latest from the field:
Long Pond, Freetown, MA (211 Middleboro Rd E.) A group of experienced sailors will return to Long Pond to reassess its potential. Initial scouting reports revealed 3-5 inches of ice in most areas, with smaller, recently healed holes measuring 2.5-4 inches. Updates on tomorrow’s findings will follow.
Webster Lake, Webster, MA Bob S. is set to scout Webster Lake, where preliminary observations suggest promising conditions. A full report will be available after tomorrow’s scouting.
Lake Sunapee, NH Sailors plan to take to Sunapee tomorrow. Mark has reported fresh, black ice in the broads that formed after Saturday’s snowfall, creating a potential playground for ice boating enthusiasts.
Watuppa Pond, Fall River, MA Watuppa Pond will also be inspected tomorrow, Stay tuned.
Lake Winnipesaukee, NH (Ellacoya Beach) Scouting will continue on Winnipesaukee, specifically near Ellacoya Beach, to confirm how sailable the newly locked-up ice is on this big lake.
Bantam Lake, CT A small section of Bantam has already seen some sailing, and the cold nights could open up even more of the lake. More on the progress tomorrow.
Quaboag Pond, Brookfield, MA Quaboag should be sailable this weekend, confirmatrions tomorrow
Paul reports that the Adirondack region lakes have lots of drifts but scouting will continue
We do have some weather coming in but with the variety options we will be sailing somewhere this weekend
Brian Langley reports in after a lively day on Quaboag. Thanks to Bob S. For keeping a watchful eye on the area lakes.
8 boats on Quabog today, lots of snow drifts that are getting styrofoam like. Heavy winds all day. 15-20 with gusts! You would go 50 plus to 5 mph when you blew through them. Scare the crap out of you.
We had some amazing scare runs for accomplished racers and seasoned cruisers alike.
Brian
Quaboag 1/15/25 – Brian LangleyQuaboag 1/15/25 – Brian Langley
Looking to the weekend we have lots of choices and a potential regatta. As you know there is a bit of warmer weather and precipitation coming across the region so be careful. Conditions will change. More insight tomorrow night on 6:30pm call
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
01/15/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Breezy Day On Quaboag – 1/15/25
After the snow the wind picked up enough to get some sailing I’m. I counted 10 boats some still out getting in a few more runs. Some left over from Friday and some new people. Plenty of room and generally 4+ inches. Before heading out, do check with locals in the pits before venturing out.
Most will be coming back tomorrow Sunday along with a few others. As previously reported T will be setting up marks and there will be scratch racing.
John Bamman reports in from yesterday and a reminder that we owe a lot to our ice checkers. We would never get out on the ice without them.
A combination of moderating winds from those of the last few days, more comfortable temperatures and expanses of near perfect ice made sailing on Sunapee today was the ideal answer to pent up early season enthusiasm!
Thanks to Mark’s early morning ice check and marking of the few questionable spots at the south end, 10 to 12 boats took advantage- safe, fun and fast!
For those who haven’t sailed Sunapee, launching off the beach at the State Park couldn’t be more convenient and has ample parking for vehicles and trailers alike so until lakes closer to home become safely sailable, Sunapee ice is well worth the tripsnow and reduced wind is forecast for the weekend
Sunapee 1/10John Bamman Sunapee 1/10John Bamman
I do not have a Wentworth update at the moment but it is likely coming. See you on the ice tomorrow,
People sailed both Wentworth and Sunapee today and we will be back out tomorrow.
The weather forecast isn’t spectacular with light winds across the region. We can’t fix that but I for one need to get some ice time no matter what. I will be setting up at State Beach at Lake Sunapee tomorrow morning with the some of the crowd.
VC Charlie remains set up at Wentworth you can’t miss boats from the road.
Sunday we are planning to put some marks out at Sunapee and will have a decent crowd that will include race enthusiasts. If you have any interest in pushing off the starting line at any level do come.
Kate’s report from this past Monday. “Monday we sailed on Lake Massasecum with left to right in pic new iceboater Henry, Marc, Kate, Dave and Peter. This small lake is about 20 min south of Sunapee. 3 DNs, BDX, & Whizz. It was fast and gusty, sharp runners are a must! I hope to be on Sunapee with folks this weekend.”
Lake Wentworth, NH Boats Waiting to Play – Charlie S.
Last night’s call included 22 people and was charged with excitement and anticipation as ice sailors from across the region shared updates and plans. While some have already taken to the ice, many have been eagerly waiting for the perfect conditions to arrive.
Reports came in from all corners, including the Adirondacks, as the ice sailing community gears up for a promising weekend.
Maine: A Prime Spot for Action
Bill Bucholz, has been sailing Pusahaw Lake, just north of Orono, Maine. He is there now and looking forward to a great day. Sailors from around New England will be meeting up there today. Conditions look favorable through the weekend, weather permitting.
Bucholz also noted additional opportunities, including Lake Damariscotta in Lincoln, Maine, which is ready for exploration but requires further scouting. For the latest updates from Maine, visit iceboat.me, the home of the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club.
As previously reported by Bob S., Quaboag Pond in Brookfield, Massachusetts, still needs more time for safe sailing. Conditions will be reassessed next week.
Meanwhile, Race Chair Paul Chamberland and his network are monitoring Squam, Saratoga, and Sacandaga Lakes. These spots will be scouted and potentially sailed today and throughout the weekend.
Weather Challenges: Cold, But Windy
While temperatures have been low enough to form ice, strong winds have disrupted large areas, breaking up newly formed ice. Despite these challenges, the season is still young, and the community remains optimistic.
New Hampshire: A Growing Hub
New Hampshire offers a few strong options for the weekend.
Lake Wentworth: VC Charlie has been actively sailing here, just outside Wolfeboro. He reports smooth, four-inch-thick ice, although there are some hazards to watch for. He will be sailing there today and throughout the weekend.
Lake Sunapee: This lake has been a consistent hotspot over the past week. Mark Friedman, keeping a close watch, plans to refine his condition report today. Sailing is expected to continue throughout the weekend, pending inspection of known hazards.
Good luck to the NEIYA’s top tier race contingent that is or will be on the road soon to compete in the Canadian Nationals. Our Canadian friends have been doing quite well at the top of the DN fleet so it will certainly be some lively racing eh.
Scratch Racing: Stay Tuned
Scratch racing and maybe an official club race is planned for Saturday, with the venue to be confirmed based on scouting reports. The leading contenders are Lake Wentworth and Lake Sunapee. Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to hit the ice.
Tech Update: Website and Directory
Some members have noticed that the Member Section, including the club directory, is missing from the website’s top menu. I am working to restore it, and members will receive an email with updated access details and passwords later today. Apologies for not noticing myself.
On the bright side, the website now resolves to the shorter NEIYA.org, although theneiya.org will still work for existing bookmarks.
Final Thoughts
Final thoughts, as the legendary ice sailor Leo Healey always said, “There Is Thin Ice Someplace.” Wherever you go this weekend, sail fast, stay safe, and enjoy the season!
Straight from our trusted Quaboag Pond scout, Bob S., the advice is clear: let the cold do its work for a few more days. Check out Bob’s take on Quaboag below. While conditions are still firming up in the more souther areas, there’s no shortage of action in New Hampshire and Maine and points north, where opportunities are either open or opening soon.
For those seeking top-tier competition, James “T” Thieler, Eastern Lakes Rear Commodore of the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association (IDNIYRA), previously reported that the Montreal group is hosting the Canadian Nationals this weekend. A premier event for serious racers in the Northeast.
Stay tuned: we’re compiling reports and will share a full summary of weekend opportunities tomorrow evening, shortly after 7 p.m.
See you on the ice this weekend!
John john@neiya.org
Quaboag 1-8-24 – Bob S.Quaboag 1-8-24 – Bob S.
Wednesday i stopped by quaboag, cut a hole in front of the ramp it was 4 inches.
Drove down the east shore and found some holes and large cracks.
The same thing on the west side, only found 2 inches in some places.
I didn’t walk it because i was alone, too many different kinds of ice not good for sailing yet.
Watuppa Pond, Fall River, MA 2009 – Credit Bill Converse
Racing the Wind and Each Other. For iceboaters, racing and speed is not just a pastime—it’s the very essence of the sport. At every level, from casual enthusiasts to world-class competitors, the shared drive for speed unites us all. It’s why we joined the iceboating ranks in the first place and why we remain faithful. Whether on the global stage or at local events, iceboating is a testament to speed, skill, and a unique connection to nature’s raw power.
The competitive spirit finds it’s highest expression through international organizations like the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association (IDNIYRA.ORG) and the International Skeeter Association (ISA). These governing bodies oversee races that span the U.S. and the world, while local groups like our New England Ice Yacht Association (NEIYA) keep the grassroots energy alive and feed and nurture the competitive spirit. One of the longest-running sailing rivalries over 100 years and counting is between the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club and the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat & Yacht Club still thrives to this day. Will this be the year the Rocket gets a chance to best Jack Frost and bring the cup back to NJ?
But at its heart, all iceboating is a race against the wind itself. Each time we push off and sheet in, we’re testing our mettle against nature. On an iceboat, powered by nothing but wind, sail, and low friction, we accomplish what the average person might think impossible. Sailing faster than the wind. With simple vectors of attack and apparent wind, we consistently beat the very force that propels us. Except when sailing dead downwind or in irons of course. Our GPS and anemometer devices confirm it every time.
Victory isn’t always measured by trophies or podium finishes. Whether we look at how close our starting position is to the center of the starting line or comparing GPS readings back in the pits, we know the real competition is with the elements and how we adjust while sailing around the plate. Win or lose, we’ve given the wind a proper thrashing, and the sheer joy of the experience leaves us all grinning.
This past weekend marked the unofficial mass start of the season, with many in the fleet taking to the ice. For those lucky enough to sail today and the rest of the week, the thrill of racing has already begun. Looking ahead, we’re hoping to host official NEIYA races this coming weekend. Race Chair Paul Chamberland will oversee the events and could use some assistance in scouting the best ice conditions, as well as managing scoring and race logistics. If you want to be in the thick of the action without stepping into a boat, volunteering to help score races is a great way to contribute. Racing will be one of the topics on this coming Thursday’s Call @ 6:30pm. Be on for the latest.
So, gear up, stay tuned, and let’s make this season one to remember. The ice is calling, and the wind is waiting to be conquered.
Sail fast, John DN5023 John@neiya.org
01/06/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Race We Must…
Mark reports on some NH ice. Remember sail heads up conditions change and no ice is ever 100% safe. Mark is looking for people to sail Sunapee from state beach tomorrow.
Dick Boisvert and I sailed Lake Massasecum In Bradford today. The ice was 10 inches thick and generally smooth with a coating of snow less than an inch. There is a mile of ice here with good launch access, but limited parking. It should be good again tomorrow.
Sunapee looks good for tomorrow. The ice is solid at the state beach with drive down to the ice access. 4-6 inches of ice in some places , but 2-3 inches further out. There is an open seam out further (per an ice fisherman). This may close overnight as temps dip down to 7 degrees. Weather for tomorrow is 17 degrees at noon w 11mph winds (all afternoon). Monday is the day to sail Sunapee.
Winds on Tuesday, Wed, Thurs to >20mph
I plan to be at the state beach between 11 AM and Noon. Please contact me if you plan to come.
Lake Sunapee deceiving from atop Mt Sunapee – M. Friedman
Rounding out what we know leaves us with not a lot of options but the cold is here and we will be on the ice for sure next week
VC Charlie S reports a good amount of open water on Wentworth. Waiting on a cold night or two to lock it down again. he will be trying out his new Skimmer on Mirror lake tomorrow thickness was reported to be 6″. Launvh ogg Rt 109 Tuftonboro. This is a small lake and has yet to be sailed but if you’re near by give it a try tomorrow.
Mark’s report from Sunapee, NH. Gray ice extends about 4 miles from Newbury harbor to just north of Big Island. The broads are open water. Ice at the state beach is broken into slabs and I could not walk out on it. I am guessing the overall thickness is less than 2 inches and not safe for skating or sailing. With the cold temps coming the ice should thicken. I am hopeful it may be safe to sail on it by Sunday. Monday or Tuesday may be a better bet.
Mark
Race Chair Paul Chamberland has nothing in the Adirondack region of NY but does expect the next few days. As the cold takes effect we will likely toss some cones and a starting line down and race. Maybe in ME, maybe NH. We will see.
That’s it for now. Be safe check on your equipment and see you on the ice soon.
Think Ice
J john@neiya.org
P.S. Did we miss something? Reach out and let us know.
01/03/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on All We Know For The Weekend
Bob S has reported that after looking at Quaboag at noon today it is not any way ready to sail. He will keep an eye on it over the next several days and report back.
New England Ice Yacht Association 