What anglers can do?

Anglers can help minimize the spread of LMBV virus and its activation into a lethal disease by doing the following:

• Drain all water from the bilge and livewells and clean boats, trailers, and other equipment thoroughly between fishing trips to keep from transporting LMBV -- as well as other undesirable pathogens and organisms -- from one water body to another. Recent research has determined that the virus can live for several hours in water, confirming the importance of this practice.

• Do not move fish or fish parts from one body of water to another. And do not release live bait into a fishery.

• Handle bass as gently as possible if you intend to release them.

• Stage tournaments during cooler weather, so fish caught will not be so stressed.

• Report dead or dying fish to state wildlife agencies.

• Volunteer to help agencies collect bass for LMBV monitoring.

• Educate other anglers about LMBV.