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Aquatic invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels and invasive plants spread between waters on boats and gear. Many states require boats, including kayaks, to be cleaned, drained and dried, and some require inspections or permits. Rules vary, so check local regulations.
Clean
Remove plants, mud and animals from your kayak, paddle, trailer and gear before leaving the launch.
Drain
Drain all water from hulls, hatches, bilges and bait wells. Remove drain plugs as required.
Dry
Dry everything thoroughly before visiting another water body.
Inspection stations
Some states operate inspection stations, and some require stopping. Follow instructions.
Permits
Some states require invasive species permits or stickers for kayaks. See registration and permit rules.
Gear to consider
Brushes, sponges and towels help clean and dry.
Why paddlers matter
Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards are often carried between many lakes and rivers, sometimes on the same day. Zebra and quagga mussels can attach to hulls, hide in hatches and cockpit water, and survive for days out of water in the right conditions. Their microscopic larvae live in water, so even a small amount left in a bilge or bait bucket can carry them. Invasive plants like hydrilla and Eurasian watermilfoil can regrow from small fragments caught on rudders, anchors and trailer bunks. Once established, these species can alter ecosystems, clog water intakes and damage fisheries, and they're very hard to remove.
A practical Clean, Drain, Dry routine
- At the take-out: inspect the hull, cockpit, rudder, skeg box, paddle, PFD, anchor, anchor trolley and cart. Remove any plants, mud and animals, and dispose of them in the trash or on land away from the water.
- Drain: tip the kayak to drain cockpits and hatches, open drain plugs, sponge out standing water and empty live wells, bait buckets and cooler meltwater as local rules direct.
- At home: rinse the kayak and gear, open hatches and let everything dry fully in the sun.
- Before the next water body: make sure everything is completely dry, especially if you're moving between waters with known infestations.
Fishing kayaks need extra attention
Fishing kayaks carry more places for water and organisms to hide: live wells, crates, bait containers, scupper holes, transducer mounts, anchor lines and cart wheels. Empty and dry them all. Don't release unused live bait into the water, and follow local rules on bait disposal. See kayak live wells and bait storage.
Inflatable kayaks and gear
Inflatables have seams, valves and floor chambers where water and debris can collect. Rinse, open valves as the maker allows, and dry fully before packing. Packing a damp inflatable also invites mildew. PFDs, spray skirts, dry bags and wetsuits should dry fully too.
Rules vary by place
Some states require watercraft inspections at entry points or launches, some require all watercraft including kayaks to stop at open inspection stations, and some charge fees or require stickers or permits for non-motorized boats. Certain lakes have their own decontamination requirements. Check your state's natural resources or wildlife agency before traveling, especially when crossing state lines. See registration and launch permit rules.
Hot water and decontamination
Some agencies recommend hot water rinses to kill organisms before moving between waters, and some inspection stations perform decontamination with hot water. Follow official guidance for your area, especially for waters with known mussel infestations.
Common invasive species paddlers spread
- Zebra and quagga mussels: small freshwater mussels that attach to hard surfaces, reproduce rapidly and have spread through many U.S. waterways.
- Invasive aquatic plants: such as Eurasian watermilfoil and hydrilla, which can regrow from fragments.
- Spiny water flea and other small invertebrates: can hitch rides on fishing line and gear.
- Diseases and parasites: some fish diseases spread through water and bait.
Species of concern vary by region. State agencies publish lists and maps.
Gear that's easy to forget
Anchor ropes and trolleys, cart wheels, paddle leashes, fishing line, waders, water shoes, spray skirts, and the inside of hatches all trap water and debris. Include them in your routine.
Storing kayaks to support drying
Store kayaks with hatches open and upside down or on their sides so water drains and air circulates. See how to store a kayak.
Why rules keep getting stricter
As invasive species spread, more states and water bodies add inspection and permit requirements, including for non-motorized boats. Expect rules to change, and check before each season.
What an inspection involves
At an inspection station, staff typically ask where your boat has been recently, look over the hull, cockpit, hatches and gear, and check for standing water or attached organisms. If they find a concern, they may decontaminate the boat, often with hot water, or require it to dry for a period before launching. Kayaks are usually quick to inspect, especially if they arrive clean and dry. Cooperating and arriving prepared keeps lines moving and protects the water you're about to enjoy.
Our bottom line
Clean off plants and mud, drain every drop of water, and dry everything before the next water body. Check your state's rules before you travel, and treat inspection stations as partners in protecting the waters you paddle.
Teaching others
Share Clean, Drain, Dry habits with friends and family who paddle. The more paddlers follow them, the better protected our lakes and rivers are.
Clean-drain-dry gear
1. Kayak sponge and bilge pump
$Best for: Removing water
A sponge and bilge pump remove water.
What we like
- Cheap
Watch out for
- Manual
2. Stiff brush
$Best for: Removing debris
A stiff brush removes mud and plants.
What we like
- Effective
Watch out for
- None
Frequently asked questions
Do kayaks need to be inspected?
In some states and water bodies.
What is Clean, Drain, Dry?
A practice to prevent spreading invasive species.
Do I need a permit?
Some states require one.
How long should I dry my kayak?
Thoroughly, per local guidance.
Can kayaks spread mussels?
Yes, through water and attached organisms.
Do I need to clean my kayak between trips on the same lake?
It's good practice, and required in some places, especially if you store the kayak near other waters.
Can I use bleach to clean my kayak?
Follow local agency guidance. Many recommend hot water and drying rather than chemicals, which can harm gear and the environment.
Do inflatable kayaks need to be cleaned and dried too?
Yes. Inflatables can carry water and organisms in seams, valves and floors.
What if I can't dry my kayak before the next launch?
Follow local guidance, which may include hot water rinsing or decontamination at an inspection station.
Are paddleboards included in Clean, Drain, Dry rules?
Yes. Paddleboards, canoes and kayaks can all carry invasive species, and many state rules apply to all watercraft.