Ratio method
The default method starts with practical ice-to-fish ratios for the temperature band and trip duration, then adjusts them for insulation and ice type.
Fish ice calculator | Ice for catch cooling and transport
Estimate the ice needed to cool and transport a catch from fish weight, temperature, and transport time.
This is a field estimate. Follow local food-safety and temperature-control requirements.
Fast estimate from fish amount, temperature, and trip time
Visible calculation basis with ratios and field corrections
Shareable URL and CSV for field use
How to use it
- Enter the fish amount, field temperature, and transport time.
- Keep the ratio method selected unless you need the experimental target-temperature view.
- Match the insulation and ice type to your actual handling conditions.
- Review the recommended ice, calculation-basis table, and warnings before sharing or exporting.
How the calculator works
Reach target temperature (experimental)
This simplified view estimates the initial cooling ice needed to reach the target temperature, but never goes below the practical holding ratio.
Ice-to-fish ratio guide
| Temperature band | 0-6h | 6-12h | 12-24h | 24h+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <10C | 0.5 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 1.0 |
| 10-25C | 0.8 | 1.0 | 1.2 | 1.5 |
| >25C | 1.2 | 1.5 | 2.0 | 3.0 |
Example cases
Hot day, same-day market trip
Input
Fish 120 kg Temperature 28C Transport 8h Ratio auto Insulation normal Ice crushed Safe-side ON
Result
Base ratio 1.5 Recommended ice 180.0 kg Safe-side amount 216.0 kg
Cool short haul
Input
Fish 80 kg Temperature band <10C Transport 3h Ratio auto Insulation normal Ice block Safe-side OFF
Result
Base ratio 0.5 Final ratio 0.55 Recommended ice 44.0 kg
Experimental target cooling
Input
Fish 120 kg Temperature 28C Transport 8h Method target Initial 28C Target 1C
Result
Initial cooling ice 34.0 kg Holding floor 180.0 kg Adopted base ratio 1.5
Frequently asked questions
Is this an exact thermal calculation?
No. This is a field estimate. The default ratio method is intentionally simple and shows the selected ratio and correction factors so the result is easy to review and reuse.
Can I use this for slurry ice?
Yes. Choose slurry ice in the ice-type field. The calculator applies a smaller correction because close contact usually improves cooling efficiency.
What if I do not have enough ice?
Improve insulation, reduce gaps in the box, avoid direct sun, and aim to have some ice remaining on arrival. When in doubt, use the safe-side amount.
Which is better: block ice or crushed ice?
Crushed ice usually cools faster because it contacts the fish more closely. Block ice lasts longer in storage, but should usually be crushed before use.
Important notes
- This tool provides a reference estimate. Follow local regulations and buyer requirements for food safety, hygiene, and temperature control.
- Species, fish size, packing density, direct sun, door-opening frequency, and drainage can all change the required ice.
- In hot or long-haul conditions, aim to arrive with at least some ice remaining.
- If you are unsure, leave the safe-side amount enabled.