Fishing shanties, waterfowl blinds must be removed

Vermont state law requires that ice fishing shanties be removed from the ice before the ice weakens, according to 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, whichever comes first. This year, that date is March 29. All contents, debris, wood, and supports must also be removed so they do not become a hazard to navigation in the spring.

Leaving an ice fishing shanty on the ice can result in a fine and points assessed against fishing licenses. Also, shanties may not be left at state fishing access areas.

Additionally, waterfowl hunters who did not remove their hunting blind from the waters of the state earlier must do so before Sunday, February 15, on Lake Champlain or Friday, May 15, on inland waters.

State law requires removal of the blind together with its contents and any surrounding debris located on or in the water before these deadlines to protect natural areas and to prevent boating accidents after the ice melts.

State game warden Col. Justin Stedman notes that wardens annually record names and addresses of blind owners and will follow up with inspections.