BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) – Ice on Lake Erie is delaying business for boaters. About 70 percent of the lake is still covered.

The ice boom is typically removed by April 1st, but a spokesman for the New York Power Authority said that won’t be the case on Wednesday. It will be delayed until there’s 250-square-miles of ice.

The delay can force boaters to start the year at a loss. Depending on how good the season goes, boaters could recoup the loss. Brauns Outdoor Bass Charter Captain Tim Braun said the ice boom staying in longer could delay business for a few weeks.

“With the ice being on the lake it will prolong the perch fishing and smallmouth bass fishing. It just keeps everyone off the lake. The charter captains and all the guides from doing their business. I’d say about a two to three week delay,” said Braun.

The latest the ice boom has been released was on May 3rd, back in 1971.