The deadline to remove ice fishing shacks, from lakes and bodies of water, is looming.

In all areas of Saskatchewan south of Highway 16, ice fishing shelters must be removed from waterbodies by March 15, and by March 31 in the north.

The Ministry of Environment stress that whatever the deadline, know the conditions in your area and plan to remove your shelter while the ice is still safe.

The government says every year, ice fishing shelters are abandoned on Saskatchewan lakes, and they can break up and wash up on shore along with litter that’s often left behind, “creating environmental hazards and an ugly mess.”

Officials also point out that submerged debris is dangerous to boaters, water skiers and others who want to enjoy the lakes in the summer.

There can be other costs too, negligent owners can face hefty fines, and the structures and contents can be confiscated.
Ice fishing shelters must be marked on the outside with the owner’s complete name, address and phone number in legible letters at least 2.5 cm high. If it doesn’t get pulled off the lake owners can face hefty fines.

Ice fishing season closes on March 31 in southern and central Saskatchewan and on April 15 in the north.