- Contact information
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For information on Lakes in Wisconsin, contact:
- DNR Lake
Division of Water
Bureau of Water Quality
- Aquatic Invasive Species Contacts
Rusty Crayfish - Virgin Lake
- Status
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Verified
- Date First Found
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9/1/2011
About
Rusty Crayfish
Rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) are native to streams in the Ohio River Basin states of Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, and Tennessee. They were likely introduced to Wisconsin waters primarily by anglers who used them as live bait. They are still sold as bait and by biological supply companies. It is illegal to possess both live crayfish and angling equipment simultaneously on any inland Wisconsin water (except the Mississippi River). It is also illegal to release crayfish into a water of the state without a permit.