Upper Big Hole River Fishing Closure Lifted

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BOZEMAN—The upper Big Hole River from Rock Creek Road to the North Fork will reopen to fishing beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, October 6, 2007.

This 19-mile stretch of river was closed to all fishing on July 5 due to low flows and high water temperatures. The closure was focused on protecting critical Arctic grayling habitats.

 

The river reached the reopening criteria established by the Big Hole River Watershed Committee on Oct. 5 with average daily flows over 40 cfs flow (measured at Wisdom) for seven days in a row.

 

“Recent rain and snow storms, accompanied by a welcomed cooling trend have substantially increased flow despite some continued fall irrigation demand,” said Peter Lamothe, FWP grayling habitat biologist.

 

“The sacrifices made by irrigators and anglers have helped get the fishery through this difficult summer and we appreciate their contributions,” said Dick Oswald, FWP fisheries biologist. “We also recognize the efforts of the Big Hole Watershed Committee to help protect the unparalleled fisheries resources of the Big Hole through these periods of extreme drought.”

 

The Big Hole Watershed Committee developed the Drought Plan in cooperation with FWP and Big Hole landowners and area sportsman’s organizations. The Committee was formed in 1995 out of an interest in protecting and preserving the outstanding natural resources of the Big Hole drainage.

 

For additional information on all fishing restrictions and other drought updates, visit fwp.mt.gov and click on Drought & Fire Updates.