Ice fishing is coming to an end with the spring weather approaching, which means it's time to remove the ice fishing shelters from the ice surface.

If ice shelters are left on the ice of Saskatchewan lakes they can pose a danger to boaters and water-skiers and others during the summer season. Pieces of the shelters can also wash up onto shore and cause environmental hazards. 

All fishing shelters south of Highway 16 must be removed by March 16th, and shelters in areas north of Highway 16 must be removed by March 31. 

If shelters are not removed the owners can be prosecuted and the structure and contents can be confiscated and removed by the ministry. 

When removing the shelters anglers must also remove any garbage that is there. The shelter must be moved to above the high water mark.

When travelling on the ice one should do so with extreme caution. Slush is a sign that ice is eroding from above and below at an advanced rate. Changing temperatures can cause thermal cracks and pressure ridges, which are signs of unsafe conditions.