12.7.541    IMPORTATION OF BAIT LEECHES - REQUIREMENTS

(1) Bait leeches may be imported into Montana from a permitted out-of-state bait dealer under the following conditions:

(a) leeches must be held in clean well water at the place of collection for a minimum of two days (48 hours) prior to being shipped into Montana;

(b) leeches must be shipped into the state in well water;

(c) authorized bait dealers must notify the department of each shipment of leeches to be sent to Montana. Notification will be made in writing prior to, or at the same time of shipment to Montana. The notification shall be sent to the following address: Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, 4801 Giant Springs Road, Great Falls, Montana 59405.

(2) Out-of-state bait dealers shipping bait leeches to Montana must notify the party receiving the leeches in Montana that they must comply with the following conditions:

(a) leeches must be washed in clean water upon arrival in the state;

(b) all water in which leeches are shipped must be disinfected with chlorine, one-fourth cup of bleach for each gallon of water, prior to disposal; and

(c) bait leeches not attached to a hook and line for fish bait may not be released into Montana waters.

History: 87-5-704, MCA; IMP, 87-5-713, MCA; NEW, 2000 MAR p. 827, Eff. 3/31/00.