Invasive smallmouth bass being removed near Campbell River lake

The province is continuing to eradicate smallmouth bass from Echo Lake near Campbell River, to protect native species.

Smallmouth bass are an invasive species that were illegally introduced into Echo Lake, according to the province. Preying on smaller fish, smallmouth bass are threatening native fish populations like salmon and trout, which could worsen if introduced into the Campbell River watershed.

Monitoring and eradication of the invasive fish were conducted last year by the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), using gill netting and electrofishing.

Another round of eradication is being conducted through October 2024.

“Anglers are encouraged to fish Echo Lake during the next few months and are asked to retain (freeze) and report any smallmouth bass caught in Echo Lake to FrontCounterBC,” said the Ministry in a statement.

Moving fish to different bodies of water is illegal, according to WLRS, which can result in up to $100,000 in fines and imprisonment for up to 12 months under the Wildlife Act and Freshwater Fishing Regulation.

Punishment doubles for second-time offenders.

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