Disposing of Bait In The Trash

[SkunkedAgain]

Quote:

Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. It is illegal to release live bait into a waterbody or release aquatic animals from one waterbody into another.

This is from the DNR. I dump my bait on land if I'm not going to be able to use it all. However, I've had guests cry foul that it's cruel. My argument is always that it's against the law to release bait fish into lakes and that the reason is to prevent non-native bait fish from inhabiting lakes.

What other reasons exist, if any?

I know that one or two people have told me that if I was so concerned that I should use non-native bait (we're talking rainbows, chubs, etc.).

[CAMAN]

I love how people claim cruelty to minnows that are dumped on the ground, but have no problem shoving a hook through there mouth, head, or back, or ripping them in half.

[reinhard1]

Skunked i have done that for years. try to guess how much i need and seldom run out. they are biodegradable. i worry more about beer/pop cans plastic bottles, empty propane containers and other junk left on or near waters. good luck.

[SkunkedAgain]

Agreed but often when I go to the lake or somewhere, unfortunately it's a one-and-done opportunity until weeks later or more. Most bait shops that I frequent give you 30-50 minnows when you ask for just a dozen or a scoop. I'd love to keep the guys alive, but often don't have the means.

So back to the original point, how about some additional ammunition about why dumping bait into the lake is bad (beyond just that it's against the law).

[Down Deep]

Because dumping unused bait fish into the water could release VHS into the lake which would cause internal hemorrhaging in the fish and kill them. You may ask then why allow live bait at all? That policy was discussed by the DNR and it was decided by adopting a no dump regulation would be sufficient enough slow the spread of VHS. Additionally, selling bait and related items is a significant contributor to the economy especially for those who live in rural areas. From what I have learned if VHS ever hits our lakes big time it will decimate fish populations in short order. The possibility of spreading VHS is a good enough reason for me not to transport bait from lake to lake.

[Fish Head]

My 1st option is always to try and see if I can find someone who will use them. Usually a neighbor, someone at the boat launch, or someone fishing near by when I'm ready to leave will take my leftovers. If I can't find anyone, I dump them on land.

[Stick in Mud]

I usually just throw it away, too, if I don't use it all and there's no one around who'll take the extra. I've tried to keep minnows alive too many times to think I can do it consistnetly. I forget about them for one day--or half a day--and have a terribly stinky disgusting mess to clean out. Much better to get rid of it and spend a few $ getting new stuff. Just my .02.

[flyfisher03]

Besides the possibility of disease there could be ecological consequences as well. Fathead minnows in some wetlands will contribute to the decline of aquatic vegetation that waterfowl feed on thus decreasing the amount of ducks and geese.

I have also purchased bait that contained small bullheads before they were allowed for bait, and can do the same as fatheads, there may also be other species of minnows that could be even more detrimental.

We could have the same laws on live bait like Wyoming where you can only use bait that originated in that river basin to prevent the spread of exotics.

[biff]

I think the idea of stopping the spread of things isnt going to work as bait is going to come off the hook anyway. I'm sure some survive. If they have vhs im sure the injured or dead ones will spread it anyway.

[SkunkedAgain]

I think that there is a difference between one minnow escaping with (at best) a hole in it's mouth versus letting a school of them swim away at the launch. There is a much better survival rate with releasing the school than an injured bait fish surviving on its own.

[biff]

One minnow yes, but collectively there are thousands that escape if you think about how many are used by fisherman. Just saying the baitfish are going to be introduced regardless.

[harvey lee]

I keep all my old dead bait in a can in the freezer. Great fertilizer for the garden come spring.