Ice anglers can help prevent the spread of AIS

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and UW-Extension are asking anglers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers while fishing this winter. Invasive species are non-native plants, animals and diseases that cause great ecological, environmental or economic harm. They can crowd out native plants and animals and threaten the quality of boating and fishing.

Because of the possible spread of diseases like Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia that can threaten fish populations, buying minnows from a licensed Wisconsin bait dealer is also important. Up to two gallons of water may be kept for minnows provided they will be used on the same waterbody or if no lake or river water from the fishing site(s) has been added. Dead bait must be preserved in ways that do not require freezing or refrigeration. 

 Before stepping onto the ice or into a stream this winter, anglers should:

• Inspect fishing equipment for attached aquatic plants, animals or mud

• Remove all attached plants or animals

• Drain all water from buckets, containers and gear

• Never move live fish away from a waterbody (fish out of water = dead)

• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash

In addition, the DNR encourages anglers to leave fishing gear where it can freeze for eight hours or more, as this will kill most species. Other methods to kill aquatic invasive species hiding in fishing gear are to steam clean the gear or to soak it in either 140° water or a bleach solution (2.44 tablespoons per gallon) for 10 minutes.