MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges anglers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by draining water from their boats and equipment this fishing season.
The first full weekend of June is all about fishing in Wisconsin, a perfect pairing for the DNR’s Free Fun Weekend (June 7-8) and the Clean Boats, Clean Waters annual Drain Campaign (June 6-8). The campaign focuses on the importance of boaters and anglers draining water from their livewells, boats and equipment before leaving boat launches and fishing access points.
Unfortunately, some of our Wisconsin lakes and rivers are known to contain aquatic diseases or small invasive species like spiny water fleas and zebra mussel larvae. Wisconsin has various laws in place to prevent the introduction and control the spread of aquatic invasive species and diseases in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin law requires boaters and anglers to drain livewells, motors and containers before leaving a boat launch or fishing spot to prevent the transport of diseases and invasive species from one waterbody to the next. Since water cannot be used to transport fish away from the shore, it’s recommended to use ice instead.
If you are using live bait, Wisconsin fishing regulations state that minnows can only be purchased from a licensed Wisconsin bait dealer, and no more than two gallons of water may be used to transport them. Minnows may only be used on a different waterbody if no lake or river water or previously used minnows have been added to the container.
No other fish can be held in the minnow container, and dead bait must be preserved in ways that do not require freezing or refrigeration. Never dispose of unwanted bait in a lake or river. If you have worms that you will not use before they die, dispose of them in a closed container in the trash, never on the ground.
Before and after you cast your line, protect our fishing future by doing your part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Remember to:
- Inspect all fishing equipment for attached aquatic plants, animals or mud.
- Remove all attached plants or animals.
- Drain all water from containers and equipment (maximum of 2 gallons of water allowed for minnows).
- Never move live fish away from a waterbody (fish out of water = dead).
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
To learn more about Wisconsin bait fishing regulations, visit the DNR website.
