The Wyoming Game and Fish Department announced today that it is actively seeking information about the individual or individuals responsible for illegally introducing northern pike into Lake DeSmet, a popular fishing spot near Buffalo. The fish was discovered during the agency’s routine fall netting survey conducted by Sheridan Region fisheries biologists.
Why the Release Is a Problem
State law expressly forbids the transport of any live fish from its original water body and bars the release of any fish without prior written approval from Game and Fish. Northern pike are classified in Wyoming as a nongame species with no harvest limit, meaning anglers are required to kill any pike they catch immediately. The Department stresses that illegal fish introductions are selfish decisions that impact everyone who uses the shared public resource.
What Anglers Should Do
Anyone who catches a northern pike in Lake DeSmet is urged to report the catch to Sheridan Region Fisheries Supervisor Stephen Siddons at (307) 672‑7418. Anglers should also retain the carcass so biologists can gather biological data. This helps the Department monitor the extent of the invasion and plan any necessary removal actions.
Potential Penalties
Game and Fish reminds the public that illegal fish stockings constitute a high misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $10,000. Violators may also face civil penalties that cover the full cost of removing the illegally introduced species. In other parts of Wyoming, eradication efforts have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How to Provide a Tip
Anyone with information about the release is encouraged to call the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1‑877‑WGFD‑TIP. Tips that lead to a conviction may be eligible for a financial reward of up to $5,000, and callers can remain anonymous if they wish.
Agency Perspective
“Illegal fish introductions are selfish decisions that impact everybody using a shared public resource,” said Sheridan Region Fisheries Biologist Gordon Edwards. He added that the Department will continue to monitor Lake DeSmet during its annual netting operations to assess whether additional pike are present.
The agency’s proactive outreach reflects its commitment to protecting Wyoming’s waters for families, anglers, and future generations. By involving the community in reporting and deterring illegal releases, Game and Fish aims to preserve the natural balance of the state’s fisheries while upholding the rule of law.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
