Disinfection and handling of equipment to prevent the spread of disease between river systems
Parasites and bacteria can survive in moist environments for several days, and can be spread by fish, fishing gear, canoes, and water from infected river systems and facilities.
Anyone moving between different freshwater systems such as lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, must help prevent the spread of infection.
How to prevent the spread of infection
Dry and disinfect fishing gear and other water sports equipment before moving it between, or within, river systems.
Failing to follow these rules is punishable by law.
Disinfection of Fishing Equipment
You can disinfect the equipment yourself or visit a disinfection station.
If you choose to disinfect the equipment yourself:
- Use an approved disinfectant, such as Virkon S (available at Felleskjøpet and other retailers).
- Prepare a 1% Virkon S solution by dissolving the powder in water.
- Apply the solution to the equipment and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Virkon S is gentle and normally does not damage equipment.
Always follow the instructions on the package. Contact the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) if you are unsure.
Disinfection of Crayfish Traps
Crayfish traps must be disinfected after each season, even if they have been dried. You may use Virkon S, or one of the following methods:
- Rubbing alcohol: Mix 3 parts rubbing alcohol with 1 part water. Submerge the equipment for at least 20 minutes.
- Chlorine solution: Mix 1 dl chlorine with 2 liters of water. Spray or wash the equipment and let the solution sit for 10 minutes.
- Boiling: Boil the equipment with a lid on for a minimum of 5 minutes.
Drying Fishing Equipment
If the equipment has not been used in a restriction zone for crayfish plague or Gyrodactylus salaris, you may dry the equipment instead of disinfecting it:
- Air drying: At least 2 days at a temperature of 20°C or higher.
- Heat treatment: Depends on the type of equipment. One hour at over 60°C may be sufficient, but for crayfish traps, at least 5 hours at 70°C is recommended.
Regardless of the method, ensure the equipment is completely dry before using it in another river system or another location within the same river systeme.
Kayaks, packrafts, and other paddling equipment must be dried or disinfected
All equipment that has been in contact with water—such as kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and spray skirts—must be dried or disinfected before being used in other rivers or river systems. If you have paddled in an area regulated by a zone regulation, check whether the regulation requires both drying and disinfection of the equipment.