Michigan Anglers and Boaters: You are an important partner in preventing the spread of fish diseases and other aquatic nuisance species

Anglers and boaters can take some easy steps to prevent the spread of fish diseases and other aquatic nuisance species such as zebra mussels by taking the following steps to help prevent the spread of the virus:

• Clean boats, trailers, and other equipment thoroughly between fishing trips to keep from transporting undesirable fish pathogens and organisms, from one water body to another with special care to clean fishing equipment when you are done fishing known locations of the fish diseases. A light bleach solution is an excellent disinfectant for cleaning your equipment.
• After cleaning allow boats, trailers, and other equipment to fully dry for 4 to 6 hours in the sun.
• Do not move fish or fish parts from one body of water to another.
• Do not release live bait into any water body.
• Handle fish as gently as possible if you intend to release them and release them as quickly as possible.
• Refrain from hauling the fish for long periods in live wells if you intend to release them.
• Report unusual numbers of dead or dying fish to Michigan Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division offices.
• Educate other anglers about the measure they can take to prevent the spread of fish diseases and other aquatic nuisance species.

I found this article on the DNR website. With the fishing/boating season quickly approaching, I thought it might serve as a good reminder to all of us.

Spring is in the Air!

Attention all of you anglers, sportsmen, and just plain old nature lovers!

Spring is beating a fast path to our front door. The birds are chirping, squirrels are running about, even my dog seems to have an extra bounce in her step. The clouds have parted and gave way to a most glorious sun-filled afternoon. The ice will have melted off the lakes around here soon, and that means it is time to go fishing.
I know some of you hardcore anglers haven't missed a beat all winter. You faithfully bundled up each day, grabbed your gear and trekked on down the frozen tundra. Well, there's no more of that(at least until next winter)--for now we will focus on the more enjoyable aspects of this wondrous sport. Hopefully, with some help from all of you, we can share experiences and spread the good word about fishing. I know a lot of people have mixed feelings on the subject or think that it is just flatout boring. Well, we are here to change some minds and get families out there enjoying nature while forming closer bonds with everything that is.


Until next time.....