Released on March 24, 2011
Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment would like to remind anglers that the 2010-11 ice fishing season ends on March 31 in the Southern and Central Zones and April 15 in the Northern Zone.
For 2011 and in future years new fixed opening season dates will be replacing the variable season opening dates. In the Southern Zone fishing season will be opening on May 5, the Central Zone on May 15 and the Northern Zone will open May 25. Additionally, the 2011 Angler's Guide is now available online at http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca.
The ministry would like to remind anglers that all ice-fishing shacks South of Highway 16 were to be removed by March 15. Areas North of Highway 16 must be removed by March 31. Any litter, including fish offal, must be taken away when ice shacks are removed from the ice.
Anyone travelling on the ice should take extreme caution. Slush indicates that ice is eroding from above and below at an advanced rate and changing temperatures can cause thermal cracks and pressure ridges, which are indicators of unsafe ice. The province has received an above average accumulation of snowfall this season which can also reduce the bearing capacity of the ice.
If you know of, or suspect a fisheries, wildlife, environmental or forestry violation, contact your nearest Ministry of Environment Office or call the province's TIP line at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 from any SaskTel cell phone. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to a conviction.
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For more information, contact:
Bonnie Greene
Environment
Phone: 306-953-3499
Email: Bonnie.greene@gov.sk.ca