News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government is reminding ice fishers to be good stewards of the environment.

“Ice fishing is a popular way to enjoy time with friends and family and appreciate the natural environment and our waterways during the winter,” said Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle. “As with any outdoor recreation, there is a responsibility to ensure that they do not harm the environment.”

Signs are posted at popular ice fishing sites to ensure owners of shelters respect waterways regulations and know how to properly maintain their shelters until the end of the fishing season, which is March 31.

“It is important that these regulations be observed and that the shelters are properly removed at the end of the season,” said Rousselle. “By protecting our waterways, we help ensure this fishing tradition continues to be enjoyed by many generations to come.”

Under the Clean Environment Act the owners of ice fishing shelters must:

• post their name and address clearly on the outside of the shelter;

• mount shelters on skids or runners to allow for easy removal;

• remove all shelters and contents before the spring thaw or otherwise prior to midnight April 2 or earlier as stipulated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada; and

• dispose properly of all waste on land.

Owners of ice fishing shelters who do not comply are subject to regulatory enforcement actions.

Regulations and the designated inland, tidal and international waters list for 2017 are available online.