An unusual fish has been found in East Okoboji recently, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is not sure how it ended up there. A recent reports says 26, three- to five-inch gizzard shad were found on Aug. 11 during a routine sampling. “It’s possible someone put them in the lake,” says Mike Hawkins, fisheries biologist for the Iowa DNR at Spirit Lake. The area is on the northern edge of the species range, according to Hawkins, who says they are usually found in southern Iowa, but warmer winters the past few years could have aided in their survival this far north. He expects the winter weather will also help in controlling their numbers. “We can’t predict their impact in the Iowa Great Lakes at this point,” Hawkins says. “Gizzards can reproduce in large numbers and our continued mild seasons could favor this species.” Gizzards disrupt fisheries and compete with native fish like bluegill and yellow perch. Hawkins reminds everyone that it is important to not transport and release any fish species into any public body of water as this can reduce the native fish populations, decrease water quality and limit fishing. Iowa law makes it illegal to possess live gizzard shad or to stock fish in any public water in the state. The public is asked to report any of this illegal activity by calling the Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) hotline at 800-532-2020. Callers remain anonymous.
