Ask the Conservation Officer (CO)

by Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer Question: "I heard some folks at Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir were issued citations for not draining their boat live wells. How can that be a violation?" Answer: Over the last several years, exotic or introduced fish species such as walleye, crappie, and small mouth bass have been detected in waters where they would not normally be found, including numerous ponds on private property. Organized fishing groups routinely encourage Department fisheries biologists to expand angling opportunities for many of these species. The "rumor mill" indicates fish were being caught by anglers and transported in live wells to distant bodies of water where they were released in the hopes of establishing new fishing populations. This "Johnny Appleseed" approach by the public to stocking fish is problematic for several reasons. The species of fish being transported and released pose a serious threat to native fish species. For example; throughout much of its range the cutthroat trout, Idaho's state fish, is being threatened by a competitor the rainbow trout. Much of this is the result of stocking efforts. Hybridization is also a concern for Department biologists concentrating on ensuring wild populations of fishes such as cutthroat and red-band trout thrive in their native streams. Transporting fish from one area to another area also moves fish diseases. Many of these diseases can be devastating to native wild fish populations. Idaho Fish and Game Commission rules in part says, "No person shall possess, transport or cause to be transported within the state of Idaho any live fish or fish eggs without having first obtained a permit from the director of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. To monitor the unlawful transport of live fish, conservation officers are using check stations. Once anglers leave lakes, reservoirs or streams, live wells and coolers are being inspected to ensure sportsmen are not unlawfully transporting live fish. Boat and bank anglers can easily comply with fishing rules by ensuring their live wells and coolers are drained before leaving the waters where the fish were obtained. Reference IDAPA 13.01.11105. If you have any further questions you may call the Magic Valley Regional Office of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at (208)324-4350 or e-mail us at the Fish and Game web site at http://fishandgame.Idaho.gov.