ANGLERS, BOATERS, BASS TOURNAMENT COMPETITORS ALERT -
NEW INSPECTION AND STICKER PROGRAM AT CLEAR LAKE

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) advises anglers visiting Clear Lake to be aware of Lake County watercraft inspections currently under way. All Western Outdoor News (WON) Bass fishing tournament competitors should also be prepared for the inspection.

Under a new county ordinance passed by the Lake County Board of Supervisors, all motorized and non-motorized vessels including kayaks, canoes, jet skis, and inflatable rafts will be inspected by county officials at designated inspection stations prior to launch in county waterways. The ordinance is designed to help halt the spread of invasive species like Quagga mussels.

To qualify for inspection, vessel bilges, live wells, bait wells, and any other areas that collect water must be cleaned, drained, and dry. To streamline the inspection process, watercraft users are urged to complete a required Inspection Sticker Application prior to arrival at Clear Lake. The form is available at www.co.lake.ca.us/mussels.

Watercraft free of the invasive mollusks will receive a mandatory inspection sticker indicating they can launch; boaters with suspect or contaminated vessels could be turned away. The sticker is valid for all Lake County waters until Dec. 31, 2008 and, if obtained before June 30, 2008, is free.

For more information about inspections and a complete list of inspection locations visit www.co.lake.ca.us/mussels or call Lake County's Mussel Hotline at 707-263-2556.