Quick heads up from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department: back in March they intercepted a boat carrying mussels at an AIS check station.

That boat was headed through Wyoming and got flagged before it ever hit the water, which is exactly why these inspections exist. Because once zebra mussels show up in a fishery, they’re basically there for good. That’s bad news. So, between March 1–Nov 30, just a reminder that inspections are mandatory before launch. In the case you’ve been on infested water in the last 30 days, you’ll need one anytime of year. It’s quick, and it’s all in the name of protecting our waters.

This is also a good reminder to bring it back to the basics. Clean. Drain. Dry. every time you leave the water. That means fully draining water from boats and gear, removing any plant material, and letting everything dry completely. Below is a link to the WGF website with all the AIS inspection locations in Wyoming. Happy fishing!