2024 Fishing Regulations - 36

HOW TO FISH IN THE
WYOMING HEAT
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.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Anglers who adjust their practices can help more fish survive the heat.
Reel in and land
fish as rapidly as
possible to reduce
exhaustion stress.
Keep the fish
in the water
as much as
possible.
Do not squeeze
the fish or place
fingers in the gills.
Fish early in the morning
while the water temperature
is cooler.
Carry a pocket
thermometer to
monitor the water
temperature.
If the water temperature is at or above 65
degrees, consider keeping what you catch within
the regulations. As a general rule, do not attempt
to release trout when water temperatures reach
70 degrees.
As water temperature increases, using the
proper techniques to catch-and-release a fish
becomes increasingly more important to help
insure the fish has a chance to survive.
Remove the hook gently. If
hooked deeply, cut the leader.
Barbless hooks
allow easier
hook removal.
Flies and lures are
recommended whenever
many fish are being
caught and released.
Consider escaping the heat with a trip
to a top notch, high country fishery
where it's cooler or take advantage
of one of the state's premier walleye,
bass, catfish or panfish fisheries.
If a fish is exhausted and cannot hold itself
upright, and if regulations allow, consider
having it for dinner because the fish has a
poor chance of surviving.

2024 Fishing Regulations

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2024 Fishing Regulations