05-21-2017, 10:15 PM
Leaches are becoming a problem with a lot of states no longer allowing the importation of leaches. Many states, like Washington, specifically prohibit leaches or waterdogs crossing states lines due to a disease that they have been [#ff0000]alleged[/#ff0000] to have in some states.
[url "http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fish_diseases/vhs.html"]http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fish_diseases/vhs.html[/url]
[url "http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/fisheries/vhs_virus_facts"]http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/fisheries/vhs_virus_facts[/url]
It should be noted that I have never heard of any confirmed cases where leeches or waterdogs have been infected or spread the disease but states are not taking chances.
Now, back to your question, Bait. It is getting harder and harder to transfer live bait over state lines. Currently Utah has no restrictions as such (although tiger salamander restrictions pretty much prohibit waterdogs for other reasons). But, bait suppliers are getting shy. Also, it is tough to keep leeches alive for a season when a lot of fishermen in the West don't know just how awesome they are.
Otherwise, your best bets are the as suggested. Keep in mind you will never ever find a bait shop here like you found in the Midwest. Been there and done that, and I miss them to.
[url "http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fish_diseases/vhs.html"]http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fish_diseases/vhs.html[/url]
[url "http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/fisheries/vhs_virus_facts"]http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/fisheries/vhs_virus_facts[/url]
It should be noted that I have never heard of any confirmed cases where leeches or waterdogs have been infected or spread the disease but states are not taking chances.
Now, back to your question, Bait. It is getting harder and harder to transfer live bait over state lines. Currently Utah has no restrictions as such (although tiger salamander restrictions pretty much prohibit waterdogs for other reasons). But, bait suppliers are getting shy. Also, it is tough to keep leeches alive for a season when a lot of fishermen in the West don't know just how awesome they are.
Otherwise, your best bets are the as suggested. Keep in mind you will never ever find a bait shop here like you found in the Midwest. Been there and done that, and I miss them to.