Izaak Walton League of America

How did you hear about the Clean Boats Challenge Sweepstakes (check all that apply)?

To enter the Sweepstakes, answer all four questions that are posted below by selecting the correct answer from the four choices available for each question. You must answer all questions correctly to be entered into the sweepstakes. See Official Rules.

Dump it into the water before coming ashore.
After coming ashore, pour it down the nearest storm drain.
Feed it to the sea gulls.
Empty it into a trash can or on the ground, far away from any water body.

You are correct! Releasing bait into another waterway could spread aquatic hitchhikers. The best way to dispose of bait it to empty it in a trash can or on the ground far from the waterway.

Hint: Unused live bait should never be dumped anywhere that it could end up in a body of water.

Dry all equipment.
Remove all visible mud, plants, fish and animals.
Eliminate all water from motors, jet drives, live well, etc.
Clean all equipment with hot water (greater than 104° F), salt water or high-pressure water.

Excellent choice! When cleaning equipment, remove visible debris first. Then eliminate all water, clean all equipment with hot water, and allow it to dry for at least 48 hours before using equipment in another waterway.

Hint: Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.

salt and vinegar
coffee and cream
club soda and lemon juice
cinnamon and sugar

Good answer! You can clean most equipment with hot water or high-pressure water. When hot water would cause damage, dip equipment for 20 minutes into undiluted vinegar or a table salt solution. For every 5 gallons of water, use 2/3 cup of salt.

Hint: You might also use this as a seasoning for fish and chips.

You don’t want to be seen in a dirty boat.
Many larvae of aquatic hitchhikers are microscopic and can live in mud, debris and plant fragments.
Invasive species are not attracted to clean boats.
Mud and debris make great souvenirs from your fishing trip.

Great job! Plants, fish, crustaceans, diseases and pathogens hide in mud, debris and plant fragments. It’s important to clean all equipment that’s been exposed to the water. Trailers, boots, waders, decoys and even your dog can transport hitchhikers.

Hint: Some organisms are too small to see with your naked eye.