Idaho boaters are in for an interesting requirement this season. It looks like fishing, kayaking, sailing – essentially all water recreation — just got a little harder as, according Idaho Fish and Game, a new state law requires the owner of any boat and any non-motorized vessel to buy and display an Idaho Invasive Species Fund sticker.
The sticker is required to legally launch and operate your vessel in Idaho. Only inflatable, non-motorized vessels less than 10 feet long are exempt, says Fish and Game.
And to clarify, the sticker and fee are in addition to any annual boat registration fees already paid.
Stickers cost $10 for motorized vessels registered in Idaho, $20 for out-of-state motorized vessels, and $5 for non-motorized vessels. Discounts for non-motorized commercial fleets are available.
The fees generated from the sale of stickers will fund a variety of services that will help Idaho prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species, such as quagga mussels.
Furthermore, Fish and Game recommends all boaters do the following in order to prevent the spread of invasive species:
- Inspect all exposed surfaces – small mussels feel like sandpaper.
- Wash the boat thoroughly with high pressure or hot water.
- Remove all plant and animal material.
- Drain all water and dry all areas.
- Dispose of all bait.
- Wait five days and keep boat dry between launches.
For more information, contact Idaho Fish and Game.
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Tags: boating, Fishing, Idaho Fish and Game
