Ice shanty removal deadlines begin Feb. 20 across Wisconsin. Here’s when anglers must remove shelters from state waters.
3 Things To Know:
- First shanty removal deadline begins Feb. 20 on Wisconsin–Iowa boundary waters.
- Most inland waters south of Highway 64 must be cleared by March 8.
- Portable shelters are still allowed if removed daily.
MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding anglers that ice shanty removal deadlines are now underway across the state.
Friday, Feb. 20 marks the first of several key dates for removing permanent ice shanties from Wisconsin waters. These deadlines are designed to prevent shelters from breaking through weakening ice and creating hazards or cleanup costs as late-winter conditions set in.
Permanent ice shanties — defined as those not removed daily — must be taken off state waters by the following dates:
- Wisconsin–Iowa boundary waters: On or before Feb. 20
- Wisconsin–Minnesota boundary waters: On or before March 1
- Inland waters south of Highway 64: On or before March 8 (first Sunday after March 1)
- Wisconsin–Michigan boundary waters: On or before March 15
- Lake Michigan, Green Bay, Lake Superior and inland waters north of Highway 64: On or before March 15 (first Sunday after March 12)
One exception applies to the Fox River downstream of the De Pere dam in Brown County, where shelters must always be removed daily when not in use.
Portable Shanties Still Allowed
Anglers may continue using portable ice shelters after the deadlines, provided they are removed from the ice at the end of each day and whenever they are not actively in use.
The DNR emphasizes that no ice is ever 100% safe. The agency does not monitor ice thickness statewide and recommends anglers check with local bait shops and fishing clubs for up-to-date ice conditions.
Why The Deadlines Matter
The annual removal schedule helps prevent abandoned or stranded shanties from breaking through deteriorating ice as temperatures rise heading into March. Once frozen into the lake or submerged, removal becomes dangerous and costly.
Anyone needing assistance removing a shelter is encouraged to contact local fishing clubs, vendors or fellow anglers for help.
Residents can report abandoned or unremoved shanties by calling or texting the DNR Violation Hotline at 1-800-TIP-WDNR (1-800-847-9367).
As Wisconsin transitions toward late winter and early spring, anglers are urged to plan ahead and ensure their shelters are off the ice by the required dates.
Story based on a release from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
