Here is the MN DNR response to the white sores we have been seeing on Mille lacs SMB…
Thank you for your information.
It looks like the fish in the picture is dealing with one or more fish parasite.
One of the naturally occurring fish parasites in Mille Lacs is called Argulus (or fish louse), I have attached a photo from some diving done on Mille Lacs last year. This parasite is very irritating and fish often rub up against things to try to scratch them off. In the process they open a wound that can be attacked by other infections like bacteria and fungus. So, it kind of looks like a wound that may have been caused by Argulus, now infected with a bacteria or fungus.
We noted the presence of similar wounds early this year while marking bass for a possible population estimate in the future. The long/warm weather may also be stressing the fish enough to give these organisms an advantage this season, making them more visible than in the typical year.
The fact that you caught the fish angling is good, it means the fish still has the energy/resources to be actively feeding.
Kevin Mott
Aitkin Area Fisheries
1200 Minnesota Ave
Aitkin, MN 56431
