Ice anglers could be fined $100 for trash on lake ice this winter thanks to new law

Detroit Lakes, Minn. (KDLM) – Anglers headed out on the ice this winter should be aware of a new state law that aims to keep lakes clean. 

The law, which took effect July 1, requires all trash to be placed in a container that’s secured to an ice house or vehicle. That includes beverage containers, cigarette butts and fish remains.

The new law gives conservation officers the ability to educate people first, and take enforcement action when necessary. Violating the law is a petty misdemeanor and could result in a $100 fine.

A MN DNR official said, in the springtime, conservation officers and lakeshore property owners routinely find beer cans, pop bottles, cardboard, and, what they described as the most concerning, human waste. 

They added they hope the new law will direct that refuse into the proper bins on shore