FLW Red Wing - Boat Inspection

[wondering]

The entry confirmation says that there is a mandatory boat inspection for exotic species. Does anyone know when and where this will take place? Does this imply that we can't put our boats on the water until after the inspection (i.e. this would imply a closed period)?

Thanks in advance.

[Burr]

Typically, in Minnesota when they are doing the exotic species boat inspections, they set up at the ramps, and check your boat before you can put it in the water.

No closed period on the water - just allow a few minutes at the access. For the most part, I don't think they even slow you down.

I don't know what happens if you fail the inspection - I'm thinking you shouldn't put yourself in the position to find out.

[wondering]

Thanks for the info. I assume the Minnesota DNR does the inspections? Are they at all ramps at all times, or do you need to make arrangments to have the inspection done in some cases?

Thanks in advance

[Jig Bite]

Generally the inspection is a self inspection (unless a group has an inspection station set-up) to control invasive species. The DNR will probably not have inspection stations set-up. Best thing to do is buy a gallon of Clorox and mix it 50/50 with water and flush your boats bilge and live well. This is what the DNR recommends. Also make sure your trailer doesn’t have any weeds on it that are green and have any life in them that are from another body of water. This will take care of anything that could be considered an "Invasive Species."

[Muleskinner]

In the past we have checked in at Four seasons sports and signed a roster which in effect left you on an honor system to make sure your boat and livewell system have been disinfected and flushed. Please make sure to do this as the mighty miss already has enough critters in it.

[erieeyes]

When I fished the RCL Red Wing Championship in 2002 the boat inspection was at one of the local bait shops. You stopped by and they had you sign a roster sheet. If I remember correctly all they did was dump some chlorinated water into the livewell.

[hmm]

This sounds rather loose. I think I'll call Sonny and ask him exactly what his expectation for this is. After I get that info, I'll post it.