Ice huts off Lake Simcoe March 15th
Ice Anglers Required to Remove Ice Huts Before Spring Thaw

AURORA - The Ministry of Natural Resources is reminding ice anglers using Lake Simcoe to remove their ice huts and help keep the lake environment clean and safe.

Every year as spring approaches, many ice anglers have difficulty removing their ice huts because of unanticipated thaws. Huts that go through the ice pose a hazard to the environment and are a safety concern for boaters.

Ice hut owners are responsible for maintaining their huts and removing them prior to the spring thaw. The deadline for removing ice huts from Lake Simcoe is 15 March.

Owners who abandon their ice huts or store them on Crown land, islands, shore lands or access points are in violation of the Public Lands Act. Owners may be fined and could be liable for removal costs. Anglers and recreational users are also reminded to clean up and take away their garbage.

Anglers are reminded that March 15 is the closing date for walleye, whitefish and lake trout fishing on Lake Simcoe and its tributaries.

To report a natural resource violation, call 1- 877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).