LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan officials are reminding anglers that bait restrictions apply in some waters as a way to slow the spread of a viral fish disease.
The Department of Natural Resources said this month that the use of salmon eggs or minnows is restricted in some areas because of concerns over viral hemorrhagic septicemia, or VHS.
Anglers who purchase minnows for bait should make sure they are certified as VHS-free. Certified bait may be used anywhere for 14 days after purchase. Anglers should keep their receipts with them to verify the purchase.
All bait collected by anglers is considered uncertified. Information on where such bait can be used is in the DNR fishing guide and website.
There is no known treatment for VHS, which causes fish to die from internal bleeding.
