Arkansas Game & Fish Encourages Boaters to Clean, Drain and Dry

During winter, anglers often visit new bodies of water to track down the hot bite. But you may harbor a stowaway in your boat or equipment. Invasive species like zebra mussels can hitch rides on your equipment and spread to new bodies of water where they can take over. Before moving to a new body of water, follow the Clean, Drain and Dry motto:

• Clean all equipment -- Be sure to remove all mud, seeds and pieces of vegetation from your boat, trailer and vehicle.
• Drain your boat -- Pull all drain plugs at the ramp before you leave each time you go fishing. Also let the water drain from your outboard motor's water intake.
• Dry -- Let all gear and the bilge area of your boat dry for at least five days before visiting a different body of water. If you can't wait that long, spray the area with a high-pressure, hot water sprayer and let it drain thoroughly.

Photo Courtesy Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory.