Kids will love this ice fishing science experiment, a fun winter activity you can do indoors no matter the weather. Winter science doesn’t need freezing temperatures or real snow—this easy ice cube fishing experiment is perfect for home, classrooms, or indoor STEM time.
Using simple materials, kids explore how salt melts ice and causes it to refreeze, making this a hands-on way to learn about freezing points and physical changes.
Ice Science Experiment: Let’s Go Fishing!
This ice science experiment requires very little prep (just ice cubes!). You can even use novelty ice cube trays to make it more fun. Kids will quickly discover that ice fishing isn’t as easy as it looks—until science steps in.
📹 Watch the video below to see the experiment in action.
Supplies Needed
- Ice cubes
- Glass or cup of water
- Salt
- String or twine
- Food coloring (optional)
How to Set Up the Ice Fishing Experiment
Let’s get started with ice fishing science in the comfort of your warm home or classroom!
Try This First:
Before adding salt, have kids try to “fish” for an ice cube using just the string. What happens?
Step-by-Step Instructions
STEP 1. Add several ice cubes to a glass and fill it with water.
STEP 2. Lay the string across the top of one ice cube.
STEP 3. Sprinkle salt directly over the string and ice cube. Wait 30–60 seconds.
STEP 4. Slowly lift the string. The ice cube should come up with it!
Repeat the experiment to test different wait times or amounts of salt.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Timing matters. Too short, and the string won’t stick. Too long, and the ice may melt too much.
- Salt amount matters. A small sprinkle works best. Too much salt melts the ice too quickly.
- Try measuring both time and salt amounts and compare results.
👉 Also try: What makes ice melt faster?
The Science Behind Ice Fishing
Salt lowers the freezing point of water, which causes ice to melt even when temperatures are cold.
When salt is sprinkled on the ice:
- A thin layer of ice melts into liquid water.
- That water refreezes around the string.
- The refrozen ice bonds to the string, allowing you to lift the cube.
This is a physical (reversible) change, not a chemical reaction. The ice melts and refreezes without changing what it’s made of—just like icy roads refreeze after being salted.
NGSS Guiding Questions
- What happens to ice when salt is added?
- How does salt change the freezing point of water?
- Why does the ice refreeze around the string?
- How does this experiment relate to icy roads and winter weather?
Ice and Salt Bridge Challenge (Extension Activity)
Concept: Explore how salt affects melting and refreezing—similar to winter road conditions.
How It Works
Salt lowers the freezing point of ice, causing melting. As the water refreezes, it can bond objects together.
Try This:
- Place two ice cubes on a plate with a string between them.
- Sprinkle salt where the string touches the ice.
- Wait a few minutes, then gently lift the string.
- The ice cubes should stick together!
Real-World Connection: This process mirrors how salt keeps icy roads safer while allowing refreezing to occur later.
FAQ: Ice Fishing Science Experiment
Why does salt make ice melt faster?
Salt lowers the freezing point of water, causing ice to melt even in cold conditions.
How long should the string sit on the ice?
About 30–60 seconds works best, depending on how much salt is used.
What age is this experiment best for?
This activity works well for preschool through early elementary, with supervision.
More Fun Winter Science Activities
Looking for more hands-on winter science experiments to try next?
- Make frost on a can
- Explore how polar bears stay warm with a blubber experiment
- Create a snowstorm in a jar
- Investigate why ice is sticky or slippery
- Race melting ice cubes
Free Printable Winter Science Guide
Click here to grab your printable science guide and STEM cards!
Extend Your Winter Learning
If you’d like everything organized in one place, our Printable Winter STEM Pack includes 250+ pages of winter-themed science, STEM, and art projects, complete with instructions, printables, and kid-friendly learning prompts.
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