If you are on the fence about traveling to Moosehead tomorrow. Jeff Roseberry is set up and waiting. According to Jeff snow is not a factor. The snow can be brushed away with one’s hand.
Moosehead, Greenville, ME 3/22/25 – Jeff Roseberry
Think Ice and remember the season’s end is right in front of you.
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
03/22/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on On The Moose Fence For Tomorrow (3/23/25)?
The word is out from our friends at the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club (https://iceboat.me/) of Maine. There will be people prepared to sail Moosehead from Greenville boat ramp on Sunday morning @ 9:00 AM.
Looking like it will be cold and breezy. Heed Bill’s cautions and be prepared. For the latest go to https://iceboat.me/.
If anyone was planning on crossing into Canada to sail reach out to me directly and I will pass on contact info to get details directly.
Remember it is going to be a long hot spring, summer, and fall till we are back on the ice again. Questions, ping me.
Think Ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
03/21/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Sunday Moose (3/23/25)
Spring has been teasing its arrival for weeks, but at 5:01 AM EST today, it’s official. And with it comes the possibility of one last shot on the ice.
Sailable ice is always a moving target, and this time of year brings added uncertainty. What might have looked like the end changes with the updated weather forecast. Currently, Moosehead Lake and a few cross-border locations near Montreal remain in play. But as with all late-season ice sailing, conditions are highly variable. We won’t have a definitive answer for another day or two.
So, hold off on packing away your ice boat gear just yet, there may still be one final ride before the season melts away.
We’ll convene on our conference call at 6:30 p.m. tonight for updates, though we are a day or so from more accurate info. Stay tuned here and on iceboat.me for reports from our friends in Maine.
Think Spring. Think Ice.
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
03/20/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Spring and a Final Ice Sailing Window
Weekend Ice Sailing Report: Spring Conditions Beckon on Winnipesaukee
A dedicated group of ice sailors is set to take on Lake Winnipesaukee this weekend, launching from Brewster Beach in Wolfeboro, N.H. Vice Commodore Charlie Silfvenius has been closely monitoring conditions and believes the spring ice is primed for action with plenty of base ice and a hard(ish) surface to sail. There are no condition guarantees except that if you don’t show up you will not get to sail for sure.
For those who have sailed spring ice, you know the drill. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, conditions can change rapidly—what starts as a firm, fast surface in the morning may soften as the day progresses. The takeaway? Arrive early, rig fast, and get on the ice while it’s at its best. Some boats are already staged in the launch area, ready to capitalize on the prime morning conditions. If you have slush runners, pack them they could prove invaluable as temperatures rise if not don’t worry.
Eyes on Moosehead: Maine’s Next Big Ride?
Bill Buchholz, and other sailors have been racking up miles this week on Lake Pushaw, taking advantage of prime conditions. Now, all eyes are on the remote and expansive Moosehead Lake—one of the NEIYA’s must-sail destinations. If current forecasts hold, Moosehead could be ready for action late next week. If you’re considering the trip, start making plans this is one you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to check The Chickawaukee Ice Boat Club website, iceboat.me, regularly for the latest happenings in Maine.
Sunapee: The Comeback Continues?
Whispers abound that Lake Sunapee may once again be sailable, with reports of sailors eyeing the ice for tomorrow. As of now, confirmation remains elusive, but we’ll provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.
Sail Fast, Sail Safe, and Embrace Spring Ice
There are no condition guarantees except that if you don’t show up you will not get to sail for sure. Spring ice sailing is a fleeting thrill. Stay safe, sail smart, and enjoy every run. More info as it materializes and we will have our regular call next Thursday 6:30 pm
This time of year is always last minute, as most of us know. The big lakes are there, waiting for the early morning attempts. Assemble a group and head north when the call goes out. Sure to be a topic tonight.
Other ice happenings this weekend: The Northern Maine Ice Busters (NMIB) are at it again with another record-breaking Ice Carousel attempt. This year, they’re going international with a spinning disk in the middle of the St. John River, spanning the United States and Canadian border.
I witnessed the world-record disk at 1,777 feet in diameter on Long Lake, St. David, Maine, back in 2023. It was quite a sight—an incredible feat of manpower, technology, and machinery.
This year’s International Ice Carousel is ready to start spinning starting tomorrow at the earliest. Good thing our Passports (Cards) have RFID chips to keep track of our entry and exit as the disk spins in the middle of the St. John.
An International Feat of Ice and Engineering
The NMIB are gearing up for their most ambitious project yet: the 2025 International Ice Carousel Attempt. March 14-16, 2025, this groundbreaking event will be held on the St. John River, bridging Van Buren, Maine, and St. Leonard, New Brunswick. Here is a link about the carousel construction
This attempt is unique not only for its scale but also for its international collaboration. NMIB plans to carve and rotate a massive 207-foot-wide ice carousel, marking the first time an ice carousel will span two countries. This effort is more than just an engineering challenge—it’s a symbol of unity and community spirit across borders.
The NMIB team hopes to attract visitors from both the U.S. and Canada, fostering cross-border connections and celebrating the region’s rich winter traditions.
So, grab your passports and keep driving past Loring AFB, site of many landsailing regattas, to the Crown of Maine—this is one icy adventure you won’t want to miss!
Think Ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
03/13/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on The 2025 International Ice Carousel Attempt
For iceboaters, planning never stops. Off-season, we build, acquire, and refine equipment. As ice forms, we tune rigs, align chocks, and keep a go-bag ready to travel at a moment’s notice.
Non-iceboaters have asked why there is a boom and sail in my dining room and boxes of runners in my hallway holds a boom and runners. The answer is simple: to be ready and well, the light is best in the dining room.
That readiness was on display last weekend at Lake Sunapee. A seasoned crew, were ready to inspect the unsailed surface. It had only been visually inspected—no skates, no sails—but their instincts said go. They were right. The ice held, and the sailing was on.
Hats off to these intrepid sailors, who embody iceboating’s core: calculated risk, trust in preparation, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect ride. Below are their experience from Sunday and Monday
Five of us sailed Sunapee on Sunday – Kate, Bob S, David, Jim and myself. Ice fisherman there had 30″ of ice. Surface was a bit rough but we were able to sail from the state beach through the narrows and across the main lake. Great day! Some of the group went back early on Monday but I’ll leave that to them to update. Peter
Sunnapee 3/10/25 – Kate Marone
We were able to sail all the way to the north end of the lake today. It was a fast trip up and back, we were done by 11:15 and the ice had turned to a soft slush fast. There were 4 of us. We didn’t waste time working our way back south covering eighteen miles round trip.
Kate Marone
Sunnapee 3/10/25 – Kate Marone
Sunrise Tuesday morning temp 27: the surface looks better than yesterday, very little wind and close to 50 today. We spoke to a fisherman yesterday, he said there is 30 inches of ice near great island, there should be more sailing in the future. The launch at the beach is very good, keep your eye on the weather and take a chance if it looks good.
Bob S P.S. On the way home there was a nordic skater at Newbury, the ice looked good.
A thaw-and-refreeze cycle provided prime—if fleeting—conditions across New England. Sailors took to the ice in multiple locations, making the most of what could be one of the season’s final rides.
Massabesic Lake, NH: A Morning of Speed Before the Slush
A dozen or so iceboats—DNs, Whizzes, Skimmers, and skate sailors—buzzed across Massabesic Lake in the early hours, powered by a strong morning breeze. As is often the case with late-season ice, conditions deteriorated quickly, with the surface softening by midday and turning the gathering into a social affair.
Special thanks go to Dick B. for scouting and relaying intel for the group. Without his keen eye and timely reports, the sailing wouldn’t have been possible.
Massabesic Lake 3-9-25 – Chip Goodhue Massabesic Lake 3-9-25 – Chip Goodhue
The early hours provided prime conditions for speed, but by 11 a.m., the westerly gusts and slushy surface made control increasingly difficult. The ice, though rough, was deemed safe aside from a few small open patches in the northeast corner. Remember no ice is completely safe. Writup based on info relayed by Chip Goodhue. DN 1300.
Lake Champlain, NY: Scratch Racing on Black Ice
Lake Champlain, Westport NY 3/9/25
On the western shore of Lake Champlain, DNers Paul Chamberland (KC5700) and Jeff Roseberry (US5687) continued their relentless pursuit of speed and precision. The duo spent the day locked in a series of scratch races, pushing their boats and skills on an expanse of stunning black ice. Few sailors have logged as much time on the course this season, and their commitment was evident in every tack and gybe. And I am sure will show on the starting line next season.
Lake Champlain, VT: Inner Malletts Bay Delivers Miles
Further north in Vermont, John Zierman and a small contingent took to Inner Malletts Bay, determined to make the most of what could be the season’s final weekend. With miles under their blades, they sailed deep into the afternoon, and hope the ice will hold for just a little longer.
Elsewhere in New England and the Northeast
Reports of sailing on Damariscotta Lake in Maine are still incoming, though details remain scarce. Lake George in NY was sailed from nearly end to end in epic winds. Look for info in Facebook Group “Iceboats of Saratoga NY region“
For those who made the effort to venture out on Sunday, the rewards were well worth it. Iceboating is never a sport of convenience; it demands patience, persistence, and a willingness to chase fleeting windows of ideal conditions. As temperatures fluctuate in the coming days, the larger lakes may still offer another chance. For those craving one last ride, the time is now.
Carpe Glacies, more opportunities may materialize but only if you show up and yes it will likely be last minute. Don’t pack up your gear just yet and be ready to travel at a moments notice.
Think Ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
03/09/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Fast, Fleeting, and Frozen Rewards
Couple more ice reports to consider for tomorrow or Monday. From VP Charles Silfvenius.
Rechecked Wentworth. Top layer is more solid. I can still chop through but it takes effort. Checked off Albee beach and the 109 launch. I would call it sailable. Still tight to shoreline. I think I’ll try a sail there tomorrow probably in the skimmer.
Will try to round someone up to check Winni too.
Jeff Roseberry with Paul Chamberlain are out scouting Champlain at Button Bay.
Jeff Roseberry Button Bay VT Jeff Roseberry Button Bay
And do not forget Bill Buchholz has called Damariscotta. Details on iceboat.me
Think Ice and get it while it lasts. It’s gonna get warm next week.
Inner Mallets Bay: According to John Zierman, Inner Mallets Bay is currently sailable, with a decent surface and no known hazards. However, the launch area at the state boat ramp is somewhat rough.
Lake Massabesic: The ice remains sailable with a solid base measuring between 10 and 18 inches. However, sailors should remain cautious, as drain holes and other hazards have been reported. A full scouting of the area is recommended before sheeting in for speed.
Wolfeboro Bay, Lake Winnipesaukee: Conditions are rough, with shell ice in some areas and slush or water trapped between the base ice and surface. Sailors are advised to seek better conditions elsewhere.
As always, safety is paramount. With spring approaching, ice conditions can change rapidly. Stay alert and sail with caution.
Our call last night reaffirmed a familiar pattern: Recent weather has once again pushed our potential ice conditions into “must-check-and-confirm” status. That’s exactly what we’ll be doing today and Saturday.
Several lakes have experienced surface wetting and are undergoing inspections over the next 36 hours. Areas of focus include Webster, Quaboag, Massabesic, Winnipesaukee, and Great Sacandaga (N.Y.), with potential assessments also in Dameriscotta and Bantam.
Be sure to monitor iceboat.me for conditions in Maine as well as Facebook group Iceboats of Saratoga NY region for Adirondack NY regional ice info.
Expect further updates through Saturday as conditions develop. If the outlook holds, Sunday and the coming week could present fresh opportunities.
There may be an icy kind of flu spreading in the region next week. Stay tuned.
Remember, ice is never 100% safe, particularly as we enter into spring conditions. Our ice can turn to nothing in a very short time, so be vigilant and be safe.
Think Ice,
John DN5023 John@neiya.org
03/07/2025 | Categories: 2025 Season | Comments Off on Conditions Under Review
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
New England Ice Yacht Association 