Cleaning Fish Streamside

[Outofline]

It was my understanding that it's illegal to clean your catch and discharge of the guts streamside? I know I can get a quick answer here. I thought it had something to do with whirling disease? Seen a few people do it. I prefer to throw them on ice and clean them at home. Just curious
Any input appreciated.
Matt

[Wilson]

In some states it is illegal to gut fish streamside.
I have never been hassled for it in NJ, nor have I heard that is illegal.
Of course I give all my Trout to the smoker guy and he guts them

[Outofline]

Thanks George. I guess it would make sense, that there's other creatures that would make short order of the fresh discards..raccoons, possums, mink, birds, etc..

[Wilson]

Judging by the amount of guts in the water Andy and I saw on Sunday
I'd say your ok.

[Outofline]

When I keep them, I put the stringer through the jaw, not the gills, (which keeps them alive longer, and I can cull) and have my cooler with ice, then clean them at home. Never had an issues

[Wilson]

The little lady gets peeved when I do it in the kitchen.
Had a little accident one time with a live crayfish that came out of
a Trout I gutted in the sink. Crayfish ended up in my wifes coffee cup
Don't ask