B.A.S.S. and CSF have been in discussions with the USDA concerning the pending interim rule on viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS). VHS is a pathogen affecting 37 species freshwater fish that has already caused major fish kills in several portions of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. A Federal Order from the USDA issued in November prohibits the transport of live fish from states at risk for VHS.

The order is causing a stir among tournament anglers in northern waters, as it bans the transport of live fish caught in one state to a weigh-in in another state. “This makes no biological sense if the fish is caught and released in the same water body. If a fish can physically swim across borders, the virus will not discriminate as to which political boundary it infects,” commented Chris Horton, Director of Conservation for B.A.S.S. CSF and B.A.S.S. have had discussions to address this unnecessary restriction on recreational fishing. Currently, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is preparing permanent regulations to replace the order. CSF and B.A.S.S. plan to support efforts to contain the spread of the disease, but will advocate for reasonable, scientifically sound regulations as permanent replacement regulations are developed.