The Division of Wildlife Resources has some tips for summer time fishing expeditions in the heat. Skip midday fishing and head out in the mornings or evenings when temperatures are cooler. Be sure to pick a fishing spot that has deeper, cooler water, so you can release the fish you catch into an area where they are more likely to survive. Avoid stagnant, shallow water. Consider heading to high-elevation waterbodies where temperatures are cooler and water levels are higher. Plan accordingly to minimize handling time for coldwater fish species and try to avoid posing and snapping pictures during the heat of the day. It is advisable to carry a thermometer and call it quits for the day when water surface temperatures reach 70 degrees. If fish seem lethargic, it’s probably too warm to be fishing. Try to keep the fish in the water when you remove the hook. Get more tips at www.wildlife.utah.gov.
