Check, Clean, Dry

New Zealand's pristine rivers and lakes face a serious threat from invasive freshwater pests like didymo and the invasive freshwater clams. These destructive organisms can spread with frightening ease – a single drop of water is all it takes to contaminate a new waterway.

The good news? Anglers can play a vital role in protecting our waters by following three simple steps between visits to different waterways:

CHECK Before leaving any river or lake:

South Island recreational freshwater users:
Stick to the tried-and-true, pre-clam Check Clean Dry method!

• CHECK: Remove all plant and other material from items that have been in the water
• CLEAN: Mix 10% dishwashing detergent with water, use to soak or scrub all items and leave wet for 10 minutes.
• DRY: Dry items completely and leave for at least 48 hours.

North Island recreational freshwater users:
Follow the clam-inclusive Check Clean Dry protocol that will kill the clam as well as other invasives.

• CHECK: Remove anything visible like mud, weed or clams from watercraft and gear. Drain all river or lake water.
• CLEAN: Wash down your gear (including boots) and craft with tap water, not into a stormwater system.
  Use a cleaning treatment for absorbent materials:
• Soak in hot water (55°C) for at least 5 minutes OR
  ·       Soak in 5% household bleach for an hour OR
  ·       Freeze solid overnight.
• DRY: Dry any areas where water has pooled. Then dry watercraft and gear to touch, inside and out and leave to dry for 2 days.

Remember: If you prefer not to treat your gear, simply dedicate it to a single waterway. This option eliminates any risk of cross-contamination while still allowing you to enjoy fishing.

By following these guidelines, you're helping preserve our waterways for future generations of hunters and anglers. Every precaution counts when it comes to protecting New Zealand's precious freshwater ecosystems.