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• Temperature Related Fishing Advisories and Closures
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Temperature Related Fishing Advisories and Closures

In Wyoming, when it’s hot and dry, the state’s streams and rivers flow with less water and high air temperatures cause water temperatures to rise. The higher water temperatures and loss of deep pool habitats can prove lethal to trout. In lower elevation reservoirs, lakes and ponds, trout and salmon may also become stressed; particularly when hooked and pulled up into the warm surface waters.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department urges anglers to adjust fishing practices during the state’s hottest stretch of summer to help fish beat the heat.

Current Temperature Related Advisories and Closures

Currently, there are no closures or advisories.

Anglers who adjust their practices can help more fish survive the heat.

Change Your Destination

• Follow voluntary closure guidance (see above for active closures and advisories).
• Pursue some of Wyoming’s warm and coolwater game fish like walleye, bass and catfish instead of trout.
• Escape the heat by fishing Wyoming’s high country where temperatures are cooler.

 

  Change Your Fishing Time

• Carry a pocket thermometer to monitor the water temperature.
• If the water temperature is above 65 degrees, consider keeping what you catch within the regulations.
• Don’t release trout once water temperatures reach 70 degrees – often about noon on warm summer days.

 

 Improve Your Fish Handling 

• As water temperature increases, using the proper techniques to catch and release a fish become increasingly more important to help insure the fish has a chance to survive.
• Avoid using any bait if fish are being caught and released.
• Consider barbless hooks for easier hook removal.
• Play and land fish as rapidly as possible to reduce exhaustion stress.
• Do not squeeze the fish or place fingers in the gills.
• Remove hooks gently. If hooked deeply, cut the leader.
• Release fish gently in the water. If a fish is exhausted and cannot hold itself upright, and if regulations allow, consider having it for supper as the fish has a poor chance of surviving.