Invasive Species including Silver Carp, Asian Carp, and Zebra Mussels have established populations in neighboring waters that are favored by many anglers for catching wild Gizzard Shad that they prefer using as bait for Arkansas sport fish. This practice unnecessarily raises the risk of introducing invasive species to our pristine waters. These anglers can easily use locally caught shad, or commercially farmed bait fish if they feel live bait offers them an advantage.

Young invasive Carp can be mistaken for shad and inadvertently be introduced to our in-affected waterways when collected with baitfish. These carp grow rapidly and multiply quickly and endanger boaters with their habit of jumping out of the water when startled by passing watercraft.

Zebra Mussels plug water intakes, adhere to boats and docks, and consume plankton necessary for other marine life.