MONTPELIER, Vt. – Vermont state law requires that ice fishing shanties be removed from the ice before the ice weakens, according the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.

The shanty must be removed before the ice becomes unsafe or loses its ability to support the shanty out of the water, or before the last Sunday in March -- the 31st this year -- whichever comes first. All contents, debris, wood, and supports must also be removed so they do not become a hazard to navigation in the spring.

The fine for leaving your ice fishing shanty on the ice can be $1,000, and shanties may not be left at state fishing access areas.

State Game Wardens are available for questions via the Vermont State Police radio dispatcher.

Caption for attached photo:

VT Fish & Wildlife photo

Ice shanties in Vermont must be removed before the ice becomes unsafe or loses its ability to support the shanty out of the water, or before the last Sunday in March -- the 31st this year.

John Hall, Outreach Division

[email] john.hall@vermont.gov

[website] www.vtfishandwildlife.com

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department

1 National Life Drive, Dewey Bld

Montpelier VT 05620