DNR Recommends Cleaning, Draining And Disposing During Fishing Opener Weekend

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding anglers and boaters to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species during walleye season.

For most, the standard steps are to clean, drain and dispose every time they leave a lake or river. According to Kelly Pennington, invasive species program supervisor for the DNR, these steps should be followed regardless of whether a watercraft inspector or enforcement officer is present.

Under Minnesota law, boaters must clean their watercraft and trailers to remove invasive species and aquatic plants. All water must be drained, and drain plugs must be removed during transport. Any unwanted bait must be disposed of in the trash.

Anglers and boaters should never release bait, aquarium pets or plants into Minnesota waters. Lifts, rafts and docks must also be dried for at least 21 days before being moved to another lake.

To prevent further spread, all watercraft and trailers should be decontaminated at courtesy stations located at various lakes around the state. Watercraft must be dried for at least five days before being placed in another body of water. A full list of free decontamination sites is available on the DNR website.

Anyone who believes they have discovered a previously unreported invasive species is encouraged to contact the Minnesota DNR’s aquatic invasive species program. More information can be found at mndnr.gov/ais.

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