Imagine a winter wonderland where colorful, custom-built shacks dot the frozen landscape, creating a unique cultural hub that draws locals and tourists alike. But what if this cherished tradition were suddenly under threat? That’s exactly what’s happening in Rothesay, New Brunswick, where the town’s decision to ban traditional ice-fishing shacks has sparked both frustration and debate. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the shacks—it’s about a community’s identity and the delicate balance between preservation and progress.
For decades, the Renforth Wharf area on the Kennebecasis River has been a winter village of sorts, with anglers setting up their shacks to fish for smelt and hake. These structures, often brightly painted and personalized, have become a beloved part of the local culture. Tourists from as far as Africa, Asia, and Europe have flocked to see this unique sight, with some even painting the shacks or taking countless photos. But here’s where it gets controversial: the town claims these shacks have become a liability, with many left abandoned and filled with garbage at the end of each season.
Mike Donovan, a seasoned ice fisherman who’s been part of this tradition for over 40 years, prefers the open-air approach—fishing from a lawn chair or pop-up tent. He believes it fosters a more social experience, allowing him to connect with fellow anglers and visitors. Yet, even he is disappointed by the town’s decision to install a gate, preventing trucks and shacks from accessing the ice. ‘It’s almost like the streets of Newfoundland, with all the brightly colored houses,’ Donovan reflects. ‘It was really unique.’
Deputy Mayor Matt Alexander explains that the town has been struggling for years to address the issue of abandoned shacks and debris. ‘We’ve tried working with ice fishers to keep the area clean, but it’s been an uphill battle,’ he says. One particularly egregious example involved a shack that became a dumping ground for everything from trash to a hide-a-bed. Is this a case of a few bad apples spoiling it for everyone? Donovan thinks so, arguing that instead of banning shacks outright, the town should work with the fishing community and authorities to hold violators accountable.
Alexander isn’t entirely closed off to the idea of bringing shacks back, but he insists the fishing community must take responsibility. ‘If there were an association that could work with us to ensure the ice stays pristine and materials are removed, we’d be open to it,’ he says. Meanwhile, businesses like Kennebecasis Ice Adventures have seen a surge in pop-up tent rentals, though owner Jack Ross hopes a compromise can be reached. ‘There still should be hard shacks,’ he insists.
The concern now is whether this decision will lead to the decline of the winter village. Donovan worries that anglers will simply fish elsewhere rather than adapt to tents, erasing a cultural landmark. So, what do you think? Is the town’s ban justified, or should they have found a middle ground? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
