Prevention for Anglers
Fishing equipment, waders, clothing, and other gear that comes in contact with water can transport AIS from one waterbody to another. Microscopic AIS, such as zebra mussel veligers or didymo cells, may be lurking in bait buckets, waiting to be discarded into a new area, threatening prime fishing ecosystems. Follow these guidelines to protect Pennsylvania waterways: • Avoid using felt-soled boots. • Clean waders, hip boots, dip nets, and field gear before transport. • Drain water from equipment. • Thoroughly rinse waders, hip boots, and gear with hot water,* OR • Soak in 2% bleach; or a 5% solution of salt, antiseptic hand cleaner, or dishwashing liquid for 30 minutes, OR • Dry gear for five days before reuse. * Use the highest temperature water possible; 140° F is ideal for killing AIS.