Just wondering how much ice there is in the bay. Fished there a couple of times last year, but I am always skittish at early ice. What is CONSIDERED safe to walk on?

I havent been there yet but i know on Upper Spunk the ice is inconsitent for me to get to my walleye hole.

depending on your weight...2-3 inches should be more than enough and i would have to say that by now hunters has it, but bring a chisle and that's it.
You can always walk back to get the gear...punch it down with a good stroke. If it goes through check it, if not you should be good. On the safe side I check about every 50 feet 'cause I hear ya, alittle skiddish early ice. I trapped minnows for a couple of winters, been through and it's cold, but i can say this, I have comfortably walked on an inch of clear ice...I don't recommend it but I have done it, myself and another guy about 10' apart. If you are a die hard but alittle chicken, there is nothing wrong with wearing a lifejacket on the way out...been there done that. GL

heading out on fri, if anyone has a report that would be great

1 Inch? Doesn't sound so comfortable to me...

yeah, want to see at least 5 to breath easy.

I was fishing on Birch last Friday but it was in a boat not on the ice. Hunters Bay probably has more than enough ice by now but the main lake will be a while.