Ice Shanty Removal Deadlines Are Quickly Approaching In Wisconsin

Just a few weeks ago, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued a public ice safety warning after several tragic incidents had occurred this year including:

• A 65-year-old angler from Kewaunee died after breaking through thin ice on the Kewaunee River.
• An 87-year-old man: Died after breaking through ice on lower Green Bay near Suamico.
• An ice fisherman: Died after falling through ice while riding a UTV on Lawrence Lake in Marquette County.
• Two boys: Died after falling through ice on a Madison-area pond.

That public warning focused on snowmobilers and ATV/UTV riders and now the DNR is reminding ice anglers about important ice shanty removal deadlines throughout Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Ice Shanty Removal Deadlines

The DNR issued a reminder this week about the deadlines to remove permanent ice shanties or those that aren’t removed daily, on inland and boundary waters.

It's important to note that the February 20 deadline to remove ice shanties on Wisconsin - Iowa boundary waters has passed

Now, the following deadlines are fast approaching in other areas:

• Wisconsin - Minnesota boundary waters on or before March 1
• Inland waters south of Highway 64 by March 2
• Wisconsin - Michigan boundary waters on or before March 15
• Lake Michigan, Green Bay, Lake Superior, and inland waters north of Highway 64 by March 16

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The DNR says that portable ice shanties can still be used after these dates, as long as they are removed from the ice when they are not actively being used.

Details on when all shanties need to be removed are in the Guide to Wisconsin’s 2024-2025 Hook and Line Fishing Regulations. 

Ice anglers who need help removing their shanty are encouraged to contact local fishing clubs, vendors, and other anglers.

Owners who don’t take responsibility for removing their shanty should be reported to the DNR Violation Hotline by calling or texting 1-800-TIP-WNDR or 1-800-847-9367.

SEE NOW: 7 Things You Never Keep In Wisconsin Garages During Winter

Lastly, the DNR again stresses to everyone that no ice is 100% safe and the DNR does not monitor ice conditions. Ice anglers should check with local fishing clubs and bait shops for current ice conditions before removing their shanties.