Invasive Species Begins to Spread Across Wisconsin- How to Help
A new threat has emerged in some of Wisconsin’s rivers, raising concerns for the health of local ecosystems and native fish populations. Recently, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources confirmed that an invasive fish species has been detected in western parts of the state, particularly in the lower Chippewa and Black Rivers. This discovery has prompted officials to ramp up efforts to prevent further spread—and they’re calling on the public to help.
This invader isn’t just any ordinary fish; it’s notorious for its jumping behavior. When disturbed, it leaps dramatically from the water, an odd habit that’s both attention-grabbing and concerning, especially for boaters and water sport enthusiasts. Boaters traveling in uncovered watercraft have been reported to be injured by airborne fish while at traveling at high speed. A leaping silver carp was even known to break the jaw of a teenager being pulled on an inner tube. Water skiing in areas where silver carp are present is also extremely dangerous, and often signs are posted where densely populated areas are known to reside. We're of course speaking about the silver carp also known as the flying carp in some areas. By the way, this fish has been known to jump up to 9 feet out of the water when startled
Additionally, this invasive species has a knack for outcompeting local fish, hogging essential food sources and disrupting the delicate balance of local ecosystems. If its spread is left unchecked, Wisconsin’s fisheries, habitats, and recreational waters could face lasting impacts. For these reasons, the DNR has been closely monitoring this fish due to its ability to spread rapidly and thrive in new environments. Once settled, these invasive fish are almost impossible to remove completely, making prevention a critical priority.
Female silver carp can lay up to 2 million eggs per year. Worse yet, the fish grows rapidly and can reach over 3 feet in length and in excess of 90 pounds! Even worse, our areas do not have a natural predator that focusses in on them as a food source which would help limit their spread. Could you imagine being hit by a 90-pound fish flying through the air when you're boating along at 30 miles per hour!? It could potentially kill a person!
How Did the Silver Carp Arrive in Wisconsin?
The journey began earlier this year when anglers in western Wisconsin first spotted these jumping fish near the Dells Dam in Eau Claire. Concerned about what they saw, they notified the DNR, which took the lead on investigating the sightings. In late August, data from acoustic monitoring confirmed the fish’s presence, showing that one of the tagged fish, originally from Iowa’s Mississippi River, had indeed made its way into Wisconsin’s waterways.
By September, further tracking revealed that the fish had also been detected in the lower Black River near Melrose earlier in the summer. Experts believe that the flood-level waters of the Mississippi River created a window of opportunity for the fish to move into Wisconsin’s tributaries, where they could begin to spread unchecked and unmonitored.
So far, this invasive fish has been confirmed in parts of the Chippewa and Black Rivers, but the DNR is concerned about the possibility of further spread. Tributaries such as the Red Cedar and Eau Claire Rivers, which connect to the Chippewa River, don’t have barriers to prevent fish from swimming upstream, making them potential hot spots for future sightings.
Although sightings are currently limited to these areas, the DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are closely monitoring the rivers and sampling for any new signs. Given that prevention is the best strategy at this point, these monitoring efforts are vital in the fight against this highly-invasive species.
What’s Being Done—and How You Can Help
Under Wisconsin law (Chapter NR 40), certain invasive species like this fish are prohibited from being transported, possessed, or released without a permit. To prevent the species from spreading beyond its current range, the DNR is partnering with state and federal agencies on research and innovative control measures. Some people have even suggested making them a mainstay of our diets to help combat their spread and impact. However, many are not keen on the "flavor" of fish. Plus, silver carp are extremely bony and filleting them has its own struggles, particularly when it comes to de-boning.
If you’re out fishing or spending time on the water, there are several ways you can help make a difference:
- Stay Alert for Any Signs: If you see a fish suddenly jumping out of the water, especially in a big, startling way, take note. This unusual behavior is one of the most noticeable indicators of this invasive species, particularly if the jumping occurs near boat motors or other water disturbances.
- Report Unusual Sightings: If you suspect you’ve spotted this invasive fish, reach out to your local DNR office or a fisheries biologist. Public reports are essential to help officials understand the fish’s movements and take action.
In the event that you capture a suspected invasive fish, follow these steps to keep it from returning to the water:
- Euthanize the fish.
- Place it on ice.
- Contact local DNR staff to confirm the species and officially report the sighting.
The goal here is to protecting Wisconsin’s rivers and lakes to preserve the local wildlife and keep these waters enjoyable for recreational activities like fishing and boating. Invasive species, like the silver carp, can have long-lasting impacts if they spread, but each sighting report and preventive measure taken helps keep Wisconsin’s waters for our native species. Whether you’re an angler, boater, or nature enthusiast, stay vigilant and report unusual fish sightings. For more information or to report a sighting, contact your local Wisconsin DNR office.
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