Help Protect a World Class Trout Fishery

Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Bureau of Land Management ask for your cooperation in protecting local trout fisheries during periods of summer heat. Hot afternoons, low flows, and elevated water temperatures can stress trout, increasing the chance of mortality and reducing overall fish health.

Water Temperature Policy

To protect trout during periods of summer heat, we monitor water temperatures closely. When afternoon water temperatures approach 68°F, we adjust the fishing plan by starting earlier, focusing on colder water, shortening sessions, and emphasizing quick landing and careful handling. If water temperatures reach 70°F, we may pause or end fishing for the day to protect fish health and reduce mortality.

Anglers are encouraged to:

• Avoid late afternoon fishing, when water temperatures are typically warmest.

• Land fish quickly and avoid playing fish to exhaustion.

• Keep fish in the water whenever possible, and shade fish from direct sun while removing hooks.

• While removing hooks, support fish upright in the water.

• Use barbless hooks or crimp barbs before fishing.

• To revive a fish, support it gently under the belly and rock it front to back to stimulate gill action.

• Release fish in cool, shaded, flowing water or deeper pools when possible.

By reducing stress during capture and handling, this trout fishery can remain healthy through challenging conditions.

Thank you for doing your part.