Drought-related closures still in effect for Beaverhead and Big Hole rivers
BOZEMAN – Daily fishing restrictions, commonly known as hoot-owl restrictions, have been lifted for portions of the Madison and Beaverhead rivers due to cooling water temperatures.
A hoot-owl restriction has been lifted for the Beaverhead River from Selway Bridge Fishing Access Site to the confluence with the Big Hole River. A hoot-owl restriction has also been lifted for the Madison River from the Warm Springs Boat Launch to the confluence with the Jefferson River.
These restrictions were implemented because of warm water temperatures. Hoot-owl restrictions prohibit fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight each day to prevent excessive fish mortality from angling when water temperatures are warm. Full closures prohibit angling for the entire day.
Drought-related fishing closures remain in effect for portions of the Beaverhead and Big Hole rivers. To view current fishing restrictions and closures statewide, click here.
Water conservation efforts continue to be important to Montana's fisheries. Staff with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are working with irrigators and other partners to improve flows and other instream conditions where possible.
Anglers can reduce stress on fish at all times of the year by getting the fish to the net or in hand quickly, keeping them in the water, and reviving them before releasing them back into the river.
Note: The information above includes a correction about the hoot-owl restriction lifted for the Beaverhead River.