Inspect boats to stop invasive species

“Inspect. Clean. Dry.” 

You’ll hear that a lot in Montana again this summer.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the Montana Department of Agriculture encourage Montanans and visitors to “inspect, clean, and dry,” boats, trailers and fishing gear to “stop aquatic hitchhikers.” 

1) Inspect—After leaving a lake or stream, inspect your boat, engine, trailer, anchor, waders, boots, and other fishing and boating gear for mud, water, and vegetation that could carry aquatic invasive species.

2) Clean—Completely remove all mud, water, and vegetation you find. Boaters need to drain boats and use hot water with a pressurized power sprayer, found at most do-it-yourself car washes. The hot water helps kill organisms and the pressure removes mud and vegetation. No need to use soap or chemicals.

3) Dry—Aquatic invaders can survive only in water and wet areas. By draining and drying your boat and fishing gear thoroughly, you will kill most invasive species. The longer you keep your boat, trailer, waders and other gear outside in the hot sun between trips, the better.

 Also, remember that FWP boat inspection stations are now open at key locations throughout the state. It is mandatory that resident and nonresident boaters stop at these inspection stations. 

 To learn more, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov. Click “Inspect. Clean. Dry.”