Ruffe

The ruffe is another aquatic invasive species in Lake Michigan that we must keep out of our inland lakes. The ruffe is a member of the perch family and could be confused with young native fish such as yellow perch and walleye. Ruffe are 4-6 inches in length and tend to be quite spiny, which helps distinguish them from other species. Ruffe compete with native fish for food and habitat, and populations have the potential to increase rapidly.

If you catch a ruffe, DO NOT THROW IT BACK ALIVE.