Anglers Advised To Adjust Fishing Habits During Utah’s Drought

As drought conditions continue across Utah, anglers are being urged to adjust their fishing habits to help protect fish populations during the hot, dry summer months. In April, Gov. Spencer Cox issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in 17 Utah counties due to ongoing drought. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is now reminding residents that these conditions can significantly impact fish and fishing.

Drought leads to lower water levels in lakes, reservoirs, and streams, which are essential habitats for fish. “This smaller amount of water heats more quickly and warms to higher temperatures than when there is more water available,” said Trina Hedrick, sportfish coordinator for the DWR, in a press release. “Warm water also holds less oxygen than colder water. The combination of high temperatures and low oxygen can stress many coldwater fish species — like trout — which causes poor growth and disease. Fish can also die when temperatures are too warm or the oxygen levels get too low.”

Southern Utah Is Especially At Risk

In southern Utah, trout in low-elevation waterbodies are especially at risk this year. However, all fish species can be affected by warm, oxygen-poor conditions. The DWR recommends that anglers visit their favorite lakes and reservoirs earlier in the summer, as some boat ramps may become unusable later due to falling water levels.

“As part of our long-term planning for the future of fishing in Utah, we are also working to adapt our management strategies to ensure the long-term health and viability of our aquatic resources,” Hedrick said. These strategies include stocking more warmwater species that are better suited to the evolving conditions.

Read More: DWR Claims Southern Utah Good For Bass Fishing

Anglers can help fish survive by fishing during cooler parts of the day and choosing spots with deeper water. “Basically, try not to fish near little coves that have shallow, stagnant warm water,” Hedrick said. “Instead, pick a spot where you can release your fish into better quality water to increase their survival rates during this hot, drought year.”

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To further reduce stress on fish, the DWR recommends using single hooks, minimizing handling time, keeping fish in the water when possible, and using rubber nets. Responsible fishing practices are more important than ever as Utah’s waters face the strain of continued drought.