Engaging bait retailers as part of the live bait pathway: bait retailer characteristics and aquatic invasive species prevention

In the Great Plains region, the live bait industry relies on approved species of cultured and wild-harvested baitfish. The release of baitfish by anglers is prohibited in most locations, but angler compliance with these regulations can be low. Bait retailers can increase compliance with regulations by communicating with anglers about aquatic invasive species (AIS) risk and through their business practices. We conducted 66 telephone surveys with bait retailers in southeastern South Dakota from June to July 2023 to (1) characterize bait retailer practices that may influence AIS risk and (2) determine the extent and willingness of bait retailers to display educational materials to reduce AIS risk. Fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were the most sold species (96% of respondents), and most bait came from wholesale retailers (74%). However, 24% of bait retailers also occasionally bought from local bait harvesters. Non-advertised species were observed at least once in shipments by 35% of bait retailers, but retailers only encountered species they did not intend to order in 1% of their inspections. Regular inspections for non-advertised species in baitfish shipments were conducted by 74% of retailers. Most inspections occurred at the time of receiving a baitfish shipment (36%) or daily (36%). Bait retailers were interested in displaying provided AIS educational materials (80%), including posters and pamphlets (59%), stickers (41%), bait bags (39%), and keychains/boat key floats (36%). Displaying educational materials at bait retail locations may increase angler knowledge of AIS and compliance with bait disposal regulations.