Have You Ever Heard Of Ice Boating Because It’s Huge In Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, ice boating is huge, have you ever heard of it?

Wisconsin Does Things Differently

Do not take this the wrong way, but the state of Wisconsin just does things a little bit differently. They are not afraid to be themselves, which is a good thing. That means at times, people from other places will shake their heads and give them a weird look. It is because they just do not understand.

Citizens of Wisconsin are definitely not afraid of a little bad weather and will not let it get in the way of their fun. They just layer up the winter clothes, throw some beer in a cooler, and they are all set to go. It does not matter if it is a Green Bay Packers game, ice fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, or any other outdoor winter activity. That includes ice boating.

What Is Ice Boating?

Yes, you read that correctly I said ice boating. Not only is it a "thing" but it is also huge in Madison, the capital of Wisconsin.

According to iceboat.org, 

"An ice boat is a hull attached to a perpendicular crosspiece called a runner plank. Three skates, or runners, are attached to the boat, one on each end of the plank and at the fore-end of the hull. Ice boats are strictly wind-powered and need relatively snow-free ice to sail."

 

Ice Boating In Madison, Wisconsin

You can do it competitively and race ice boats or you can just participate for fun. Locally, the Four Lakes Yacht Club runs the show in Madison. They are one of the top ice boat clubs in the United States. For over one hundred years, they have been building and racing ice boats.

Getting Started In Ice Boating

The ice boating club suggests getting started slowly. Purchase a simple beginner's boat and never sail alone. Make sure you are in a group. It looks amazing. Check it out for yourself.

If you are interested in more info, HERE.