Horsehead Lake P&R District

Lake Tomahawk, WI
 

Guidelines for VHS

 

Horsehead Lake is NOT currently on the DNR's list of lakes affected by VHS

These recommendations apply statewide, even though the rule
only applies to affected waters.
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/rbnews/BreakingNews_Lookup.asp?id=554

The best source for information on VHSv at this point is the DNR
website--it is not always entirely current, but it is the most complete
clearinghouse for information.
http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/pages/vhs.html
 

The DNR is asking for the public’s help in curbing the spread of the virus.

“Wisconsin’s natural resources belong to all of us, and we all have a stake in protecting them,” Secretary Hassett said.

The DNR is asking the public to take precautions similar to those used in stopping the spread of invasive species:

  • Put your catch on ice and do not move live fish (including unused bait minnows) away from the landing or shore;
  • Drain all water from bilges, bait buckets, live wells and other containers when leaving the landing or shore;
  • Use live minnows purchased only from registered bait dealers in Wisconsin or catch it yourself in the same water you fish; and
  • Before launching and before leaving for the day, inspect and clean all watercraft for visible plants and animals.

VHS is not a public health threat – people can still keep and eat the fish they catch – but it can kill a broad range of Wisconsin’s native fish and was responsible for fish kills in several eastern Great Lakes in 2005 and 2006.