5/7/2007

ASK THE GAME & FISH

A. The disease is present in some waters in most major river drainages, and the Game and Fish wants to prevent it from spreading. After the disease was detected in several hatcheries and their water supplies, the Game and Fish invested in new water supplies and facilities to prevent it from reoccurring. Whirling disease is caused by a microscopic parasite that infects trout and often kills young fish. Anglers can help prevent the spread of whirling disease by thoroughly cleaning mud from their waders, boats, trailers, float tubes and any other equipment before leaving the stream or lake. Anglers should also refrain from transferring river or lake water from one water to another and throwing fish parts back into the water following cleaning. Further explanation on whirling disease and preventing its spread is found on page 13 of the fishing regulations and the Whirling Disease Initiative Web site at http://whirlingdisease.montana.edu/.

-WGFD-