NORTHEAST WISCONSIN – With temperatures rising and ice conditions deteriorating, DNR Warden Mark Schraufnagel is delivering a strong message to anglers across Wisconsin. Schraufnagel says anyone who still has an ice shanty on the lake should remove it immediately as warm weather rapidly weakens ice.
He reminded fishermen that March 8th is the statewide deadline to have all ice shanties removed from Wisconsin lakes. However, with unseasonably warm temperatures, he says waiting until the deadline could create both safety risks and compliance issues.
Schraufnagel is also encouraging extra caution for anyone heading out to retrieve shelters. He advises limiting travel to walking only, carrying a cellphone, and letting someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
He also warns anglers to avoid creeks, inlets, outlets, and any areas with current, noting those spots are typically the first to weaken during warm spells. Officials say changing conditions this time of year can make late-season ice especially unpredictable.
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