Lake Berryessa Quarantine and Red Tags - FAQ
Protecting Lake Berryessa: What Boaters Need to Know About the Invasive Mussel Quarantine
Watercraft Decontaminations coming soon - please check back later for more info!
At Gone Fishin’ Marine, we care deeply about preserving the health of our local waterways — especially Lake Berryessa, a favorite destination for our boating community. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the quarantine regulations put in place to prevent the spread of invasive mussels, such as the golden mussel, and to explain how our red tag placement service makes it easier for you to stay compliant.
At Gone Fishin’ Marine, we care deeply about preserving the health of our local waterways — especially Lake Berryessa, a favorite destination for our boating community. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the quarantine regulations put in place to prevent the spread of invasive mussels, such as the golden mussel, and to explain how our red tag placement service makes it easier for you to stay compliant.
Why the Quarantine Matters
Invasive mussels pose a serious threat to California’s water systems. These small but destructive mollusks can:
* Clog water intake systems
* Damage boat engines and trailers
* Outcompete native species
* Disrupt entire aquatic ecosystems
Once established, they’re incredibly difficult and costly to remove. That’s why Lake Berryessa has strict inspection and quarantine protocols in place to prevent infestation.
What Is the Red Tag Program?
The red tag program is a preventive measure that allows boaters to bypass on-site inspections at Lake Berryessa after completing a mandatory 30-day dry-out period. Here’s how it works:
1. Get Tagged at Gone Fishin’ Marine
After cleaning and fully draining your boat and trailer, visit us to have a red quarantine tag placed. This tag seals your boat to your trailer and serves as proof that your vessel has not been launched in any other body of water.
2. Observe the 30-Day Waiting Period
The tag must remain intact and unbroken for at least 30 consecutive days. During this time, your boat must stay dry and unused.
3. Launch at Lake Berryessa Without Delay
Once the 30-day period has passed, and your tag remains unbroken, you’re cleared to launch at Lake Berryessa without undergoing an inspection at the lake.
Why Use Gone Fishin’ Marine for Red Tags?
We are an official red tag placement location, offering this service as a convenience to our customers and fellow boaters. Our team is knowledgeable about the local regulations and can help ensure your boat is properly prepped and sealed for quarantine.
By using our service, you’re:
* Saving time at the ramp
* Staying compliant with local rules
* Helping protect Lake Berryessa from invasive species
Additional Tips for Mussel Prevention
* Always clean, drain, and dry your boat after every outing.
* Avoid launching in multiple bodies of water within a short timeframe.
* If you're traveling from out of the area, check local inspection requirements ahead of time.
Visit Us Before You Launch
Stop by Gone Fishin’ Marine to get your red tag and make sure you’re ready for a safe, compliant launch at Lake Berryessa. If you have any questions about the quarantine rules or boat prep, our team is happy to help.
Let’s work together to keep our waters clean and accessible for generations to come.
Gone Fishin’ Marine
1180 N Lincoln St
Dixon, CA
(707) 678-1600
www.gfmarine.com
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