In Wyoming, when it's hot and dry, water temperatures can get high enough to be lethal to trout. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department urges anglers to adjust fishing practices during the state's hottest stretch of summer. WHAT YOU CAN DO Anglers who adjust their practices can help more fish survive the heat. * Fish early in the morning while the water temperature is cooler. * Carry a pocket thermometer to monitor the water temperature. * Reel in and land fish as rapidly as possible to reduce exhaustion stress. * Keep the fish in the water as much as possible. * 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. * If the water temperature is at or above 65 degrees, consider keeping what you catch within the regulations. If the temperature is 70 degrees or higher, do not attempt to catch and release fish. * * * * Do not squeeze the fish or place fingers in the gills. * 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. If a fish is exhausted and cannot hold itself upright, and if regulations allow, consider having it for supper because the fish has a poor chance of surviving. Consider escaping the heat with a trip to another top-notch, high-country fishery where it's cooler. Inspiring the next GENERATION of wildlife enthusiasts. 307.316.3863 * THEWYLDLIFEFUND.ORG Wyoming Wildlife | 45http://www.THEWYLDLIFEFUND.ORG