In response to unusually mild conditions, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) has issued a warning for anglers about quickly worsening ice conditions.
“Conservation officers are strongly recommending that all ice hut owners start developing a plan now on how they will remove their ice huts and implement it before the ice conditions deteriorate and removal becomes unsafe or impossible,” wrote the MNRF. “Do not wait until the last minute to move them.”
In addition to removing huts, owners are also required to remove any garbage or debris left behind to avoid creating hazards come spring and summer.
“Leaving debris frozen in the ice becomes an environmental and public safety concern. E.g. boaters colliding with wooden blocks, tarps, ice hut parts, etc.),” says the MNRF. Those who fail to remove their ice huts before their respective deadline could face charges of up to $15,000 for a first offence.
Before you head out on the ice, be sure to review our ice safety tips.
Ontario ice hut removal deadlines vary depending on location.
- Huts in Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and Lake Ontario had a deadline of March 1.
- Georgian Bay, the North Channel of Lake Huron, Southwestern Ontario, Lake Simcoe, Eastern Ontario, Lake Erie, and Ottawa River below Lake Timiskaming dam have a deadline of March 15.
- Lake Superior, Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay, Temagami, and Ottawa River above Lake Timiskaming dam have a deadline of March 31.
Find out what fishing management zone you’re in by clicking here.
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