Texas Warns Hunters, Clean Your Gear To Protect Lakes From Invaders

Duck hunting season is here, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has a warning for hunters across the state, including those of us in West Texas.

Something you accidentally bring home from a hunting trip could damage Texas lakes, threaten wildlife and even cost you $500.

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And no, I'm not talking about forgetting to buy a hunting license.

I'm talking about invasive species that can hitch a ride on your boat, trailer, waders and even your duck decoys.

closeup photo of gray and white seashell

What's the Big Deal With Invasive Species?

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, aquatic invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels can cause serious problems for Texas waterways.

Giant salvinia is an aggressive floating plant that can double the area it covers in just one week.

It creates thick mats across the water's surface, making it difficult for hunters and boaters to access certain areas.

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It can also crowd out native plants that ducks and other waterfowl depend on for food.

Zebra mussels are another major concern. These tiny shellfish attach themselves to boats and equipment, damage infrastructure and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

Even microscopic mussel larvae can travel in leftover water inside boats or decoys.

green plant in macro shot

What Texas Hunters Need to Do

TPWD says preventing the spread is surprisingly simple.

Clean, drain and dry your equipment before traveling between lakes.

That includes:

• Removing plants and mud from boats, trailers and waders.
• Checking decoys, bags and other hunting equipment.
• Draining water from boats and hollow decoys.
• Using a wet/dry vacuum to remove plant fragments before rinsing equipment.

Basically, don't let your hunting gear become an Uber for invasive species.

You Could Face a $500 Fine

Here's where things get serious.

Transporting prohibited aquatic invasive species in Texas is illegal and can result in fines of up to $500 per violation.

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Boaters must also drain water from their boats and onboard containers before leaving or approaching freshwater.

A close-up view of a pile of mussels

Help Protect Texas Lakes

TPWD says giant salvinia has already been found in 30 East Texas lakes, while zebra mussels are present in 40 lakes statewide.

Hunters who spot invasive species can report them to TPWD at 512-389-4848.

For more information, visit Texas Parks and Wildlife's Stop Invasives website.

A few minutes cleaning your gear could save Texas lakes a whole lot of trouble.