Have you used a Weed Razer before?

[St_Croix_Banks]

I have a cabin with shoreline in shallow bay. Primarily Lilly Pads are all over the place. I'd like to clear a small area in front of the doc so I can get me boat in without tangling the motor each time as well as allow my young kids to fish off the dock without a sunny taking their bait into the Lilly's and snapping of the line.

Was thinking of trying some Aquacide pellets and a Weed Razer rake this year. Any thoughts on using the Weed Razer on Lilly's?

[Scott M]

If you want the kids to catch some fish, leave the habitat in place. You need a permit to destroy above and beyond a certain area of vegetation. See the rules here: Aquatic Plant Management permitting Most anglers create plenty of space by driving into and out of their dock area.

You can do what the law allows but as one fisherman to another - if you want to be a good steward, teach your kids and grandkids the importance of aquatic plants to fish.

[St_Croix_Banks]

I understand---let me clarify. I only want to clear a narrow section--probably 15' wide near the dock. The kids can easily cast to weed edge from there or throw a scum frog up top.

Already spoken to my local DNR officer about it and I don't need a permit for that width because they are considered nuisance weeds. Just looking for best method to clear.

[timjones]

I would stay away from using the aquacide because it is to difficult to control where it goes and what it kills. Plus no matter how safe they tell you it is for the fish, it still affects them and they will stay clear of that area for a long time. Never used the weed razor but keep in mind that any weeds you cut off have to be immediately removed to above the OHM, so you still have to go out and get them after the razor cuts them off. I suppose it would be kind of hard to pull by hand but maybe give that a shot.

[JeffB]

The weed razor works great for what you are doing. Very easy and an opening in the weeds like that really draw the sun fish in.

[St_Croix_Banks]

I would stay away from using the aquacide because it is to difficult to control where it goes and what it kills. Plus no matter how safe they tell you it is for the fish, it still affects them and they will stay clear of that area for a long t.

Interesting---what do you base this on? Personal experience?

[MinnesotaMike]

I have used one to clear a 15' wide area of wild rice. Works great after you get used to it.

Good luck,

Mike

[Tom7227]

I was clearing some lily pads a few years ago and was standing in the water. I ended up with some critters on my legs that were terrible. If you do it do some research and try and avoid these hummers.

[timjones]

Interesting---what do you base this on? Personal experience?

Personal experience yes but not from my personal use. Neighbors use. Was weeks before any fish returned to the area.

[hitthebricks]

Tom you got Chiggers, pesky mites that burrow in your skin.

I grew up using a weed blade, great for temporary removal but the cuttings do replant and start new plants and create more weeds.

Whatever you do, the kids will have fun!

HTB

[iffwalleyes]

Personal experience yes but not from my personal use. Neighbors use. Was weeks before any fish returned to the area.

I never noticed any problems with the fish however the aquacide really didn't control the weeds as i had hoped it would.

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