Disinfection Techniques for Fishing and Boating Equipment
If your boating and fishing equipment cannot be dried before its use in another body of water, it must be disinfected. Disinfection recommendations vary depending on the type of equipment and disease of concern. Be particularly aware of bilge areas, livewells and baitwells in boats. These areas are difficult to dry and can harbor invasive species.
Effective disinfection techniques include:
Hot Water: Soak equipment in water kept above 140°F (hotter than most tap water) for one minute or for 20 minutes in water that is at least 110°F. Note that hot water can delaminate Gore-Tex® fabric and damage other sensitive clothing items. Household steamers may also be used for disinfection by exposing equipment to steam for 1 minute. Commercial hot-water car washes are effective for disinfecting boats and vehicles.
Bleach: Soak or spray equipment for at least one minute with a 2% bleach solution (3 ounces of household bleach mixed with 1 gallon of water). If whirling disease is suspected, a 10% solution should be used (13 ounces of household bleach mixed with 1 gallon of water). Note that bleach is an extremely effective disinfection agent, but it is a caustic substance that can be corrosive to aluminum and other sensitive fishing and boating equipment.
Cleaning Agents: Of the materials traditionally used to disinfect for human or animal health purposes, quaternary ammonium compounds have been found to be effective in controlling fish viruses and pathogens, including whirling disease. Commercial formulations, such as Parvasol® and Kennelsol®, are available through laboratory or veterinary supply companies. Household cleansers/disinfectants, such as Formula 409® and Fantastic®, that contain the quaternary ammonium compound alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride can also be used to disinfect equipment. These solutions can be used full strength as a spray, or diluted for soaking with 2 parts water to 1 part disinfectant. For all materials, follow label instructions and be sure to soak equipment for a minimum of 10 minutes. Be sure to dispose of materials away from surface waters in accordance with label restrictions.
Special Note to Wading Anglers: Felt-soled waders and wading shoes, which have been identified as an important means by which whirling disease spores and didymo can be transported, are difficult to disinfect. Rubber or studded soles are now readily available that provide similar traction, and are much less likely to transport these invasives.
Inspect your boat, trailer, and other equipment for attached
plants and animals and dispose on dry land before leaving
a water body.
