The popular Renforth Wharf ice fishing location in Rothesay, New Brunswick, is undergoing a significant change this winter season. The Town of Rothesay has installed a new gate that blocks vehicle access to the frozen waters of the Kennebecasis River, a move that effectively prohibits the placement of permanent ice fishing shelters.
New Gate Ends Era of Permanent Shacks
The installation, which was completed recently, physically prevents trucks and other vehicles from driving onto the ice at the wharf. This action directly targets the longstanding practice of anglers leaving large, insulated shacks on the ice for the entire season. The gate was installed by the Town of Rothesay, with the apparent goal of managing the site and preventing the accumulation of semi-permanent structures.
While the gate stops vehicles, it does not necessarily stop fishing. Anglers can still access the ice on foot to fish with portable shelters or by drilling holes. However, the inability to bring a heavy shack onto the ice by truck means the familiar sight of a small village of shacks at Renforth Wharf will likely not appear this year.
Community Impact and Reaction
Renforth Wharf has been a cherished and accessible spot for local ice fishing enthusiasts for generations. The decision to install the gate is expected to generate mixed reactions within the community. Some residents and anglers may welcome reduced vehicle traffic and a cleaner, less cluttered shoreline. Others will likely view it as an unnecessary restriction on a traditional winter pastime.
The town's move reflects a broader trend in managing public recreational spaces, balancing access with environmental and safety concerns. The gate's installation date was confirmed in January 2026, marking the start of a new policy for the wharf. No official statement from the town regarding specific reasoning or potential penalties for non-compliance was detailed in the initial report.
What This Means for Local Anglers
For the ice fishing community, the new rule necessitates a shift in strategy. The key changes are clear:
- No Vehicle Access: Trucks and ATVs cannot be driven onto the ice from the wharf.
- No Permanent Shacks: Heavy shacks that require vehicle transport cannot be deployed.
- Foot Access Only: Fishing is still permitted for those carrying gear by hand.
- Portable Shelters Allowed: Lightweight, collapsible ice fishing tents or hubs can still be used.
This policy may encourage more day-trippers and discourage those who preferred to leave a shack in place for weeks. It also raises questions about enforcement and whether similar measures might be considered for other popular ice fishing locations in the Maritimes facing similar management challenges.
As the winter of 2026 progresses, the impact of Rothesay's decision on the local ice fishing culture at Renforth Wharf will become fully apparent.
