A legislative change effective Aug. 1 extended the expiration date of 2007 fishing licenses for resident and nonresident anglers through April 30 of this year, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Any stamps or tags to harvest particular species also are valid through April 30.

Angling licenses, stamps and tags for 2008, which will be effective from March 1 through April 30, 2009, went on sale Feb. 18.

Fishing licenses are required for resident anglers age 16 and older and all nonresidents. Nonresidents younger than 16 may fish without a license if a parent or guardian who is licensed accompanies them.

Ice fishing shelter removal date today

Dark houses, fish houses and shelters must be off the ice of inland waters no later than midnight today in the southern two-thirds of the state and midnight on March 15 in the northern third, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The DNR also reminds anglers to keep waterways clean by picking up litter around their shelters. Litter on lakes tarnishes nature&8217;s beauty, destroys wildlife habitats and ruins many opportunities for recreation. Litter is a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000.

If houses or shelters are not removed, owners will be prosecuted and the structure may be confiscated and removed or destroyed by a conservation officer.