Reminder: Fishing closures during spawning begin for sections of Big Hole, Ruby and Beaverhead rivers

BOZEMAN – Annual fishing closures began Oct. 1 for sections of the Big Hole, Ruby and Beaverhead rivers to protect trout during spawning seasons.

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted new regulations last year in response to struggling fish populations in the three rivers. These restrictions limit fall and spring angling during trout spawning season in some stretches of the rivers.

To see where these spawning-related fishing closures apply, check the current fishing regulations here.

Some flow-related fishing closures remain in effect for the rest of the Big Hole River. Thus the entire Big Hole River is closed to fishing at this time. Flow-related closures will be in effect until flows improve, or until Nov. 1.

Trout abundances in several areas of the three rivers have steadily declined since 2011 and are at or near historical lows. Meanwhile, fishing pressure in these areas has increased. Current fishing regulations aim to be responsive to fish populations in accordance with Montana’s statewide fisheries management plan.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is conducting new research with Montana State University to better understand and manage trout mortality, recruitment and health. To learn more about this research, click here.

For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/fish.