Montana

High water temperature leads to fishing restrictions

Posted: Jul 26, 2012 1:14 PM by Angela Douglas - Q2 News
Updated: Jul 26, 2012 1:15 PM

BILLINGS - Consistent high temperatures have led to fishing restrictions on three Montana Rivers.

FWP Public Information Officer Bob Gibson said the Dear Born River, Smith River, and Sun River are all closed to fishing between the hours of Noon and 12 a.m. All three rivers are in the Great Falls area.

Fishing restrictions are ordered when the temperature of the water rises to 73 degrees for three consistent days.

Catch and release is also not allowed. According to Gibson, if the water is 73 degrees or higher catch and release is very stressful on fish like trout. 55-57 degrees is ideal for trout.

Currently, the Yellowstone River does not have any fishing restrictions. According to Gibson, if high temps continue, restrictions in the near future are likely.

On another note, Cooney Dam is currently closed to all recreation on the water due to the Skibstad Fire. Air support crews are using the water from the dam to refill helicopters.

In an effort to limit congestion, no boating, swimming, or fishing is allowed at Cooney Dam.

It is unknown when the dam will be reopened.