Deadlines approach for ice fishing shelter removal

MADISON – Deadlines are approaching for ice anglers to remove ice fishing shelters from inland and boundary waters. Anglers should note that the regulations for removing ice shanties were changed this year. Previously the dates to remove ice shelters from inland waters were March 5 for waters south of Highway 64 and March 15 for waters north of Highway 64. Under the new regulations, shelters must be removed be the end of the first Sunday following March 1 south of Highway 64 and by the end of the first Sunday following March 12 north of Highway 64.

Dates are determined by anticipated ice melting. If not removed, shelters, also known as shanties, can sink or be carried away, creating a danger to boaters.

All ice fishing shelters must be completely removed by:

All ice fishing shelters had to be removed from Wisconsin-Iowa boundary waters by Feb. 20. This earlier date, affecting the Mississippi River south of the Minnesota-Iowa border, is set to correspond with Iowa regulations.

After the date for removing ice fishing shelters from a frozen lake or river, an angler may continue to use a portable shelter but must remove it when it is not occupied or actively being used.

Failure to remove a shanty or ice fishing shelter by these deadlines could result in a forfeiture of $248.60. Additional costs may be incurred if the shanty or ice fishing shelter breaks through the ice and must be recovered and disposed of.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Bureau of Law Enforcement - (608) 266-2141