In some parts of the state minnow fishing (use of small fish for 

 bait) has been a chief factor in unwise introductions. This is a popular 



means of taking fish, and regulations prohibiting 

 The Danger the use of small fish for bait are often given a 



Of Minnows great deal of opposition. Fishermen in Western 



P"or Bait Montana have seen the danger of introductions 



by minnow fishing and have given the support 

 needed by the Commission to prohibit the use of minnows for bait 

 in this area. 



Many fine waters in the balance of the State are in jeopardy of 

 being contaminated year by year through this means. Until fishermen 

 realize that they can catch fish by other means, and in so doing, keep 

 these waters clean for their own later enjoyment and for the enjoy- 

 ment of future generations, restrictions cannot be placed success- 

 fully on this type of fishing. 



Other steps which have been taken to eliminate unwise intro- 

 ductions are given elsewhere in this report under "Fish Stocking and 

 Management Policy of the Fish and Game Department, State of 

 Montana" on pages 52-53. 



The second step being taken to correct the problem of unwise 



introduction of fishes is rehabilitation of waters. 



Some Waters Can This is simply the introduction of a material. 



Be Rehabilitated which is toxic to fish, into the water in such a 



With Toxicants manner that all fish life in that body of water 



will be killed. When that water again becomes 

 non-toxic, it is restocked with a suitable fish from hatcheries. This 

 is an excellent management measure and has been much used 



► 



► 



Rehabilitation ol a Montana lake by aerial distribution oi toxicants. 



— 60 — 



