DRAKESVILLE, Iowa – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Bureau investigation into the presence of gizzard shad in Lake Wapello has eliminated all possibilities other than intentional stocking, and has state officials asking the public for information on the case.

Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) has joined the effort by offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to a successful prosecution of the individual or individuals involved in reintroducing gizzard shad into the newly renovated Lake Wapello. The TIP number is 1-800-532-2020. Callers can remain anonymous.

As part of the investigation, fisheries staff surveyed the ponds and basins in the watershed and found no gizzard shad, leaving the only way for the problem fish species to have gotten into Lake Wapello was by intentional stocking. It is against the law to introduce any live fish to any public waters in the state.

“We are confident that a person or persons intentionally put live gizzard shad in Lake Wapello, and that it happened after the project was completed on April 1,” said Mark Flammang, fisheries biologist for Lake Wapello. “This lake means a lot to the area economically and recreationally. We held fish for a year specifically for Lake Wapello to speed its return as a fishery and the lake was well on its way back until the shad were added. Now, not only do we have to lower the lake again, but we have to eliminate the fishery to get the shad.”
The incident remains under investigation.

“I would encourage anyone with any information to come forward so those responsible can be held accountable for their actions,” said Bob Stuchel, conservation officer with the DNR for Wapello and Davis counties. “It is by their hand that the fishery will need to be renovated again and that takes away the recreation and enjoyment from everyone.”

Fishing at Lake Wapello contributes an estimated $700,000 per year to the local economy. According to Iowa State University’s Center for Agriculture and Rural Development, Lake Wapello hosts more than 81,000 fishing trips annually. The DNR had just completed a $400,000 lake renovation, dam repair and watershed improvement project in April.

The public may also call Conservation Officer Matt Rush, at 641-777-7805, Park Ranger Chad Horn, at 641-777-7445 or Stuchel at 641-777-2169 directly with information on the case.


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