The number of kokanee salmon in Flaming Gorge are down this year for a number of reasons and the concerns of anglers are being heard by wildlife officials. During the DWR Northeastern Region RAC meeting on September 7th, Aquatics Manager Trina Hedrick acknowledged the concerns that they have been hearing and provided an update. She said that they have collected a significant amount of data this year and they need time to analyze it as they work towards the right course of action. They are working with Wyoming to be on the same page about implementing regulations and just need more time to make sure they understand what is happening with the kokanee population so they can be sure to take the right action. In the meantime, there are opportunities for those hoping to see red kokanee salmon this fall, including in northeastern Utah. DWR Outreach Manager Tonya Kieffer-Selby explains, “There are some kokanee to view in this location, just not in the large numbers we have seen in the past. This week, a few were visible at the bridge near the Sheep Creek Geological Loop turnoff. Otherwise, for viewing kokanee in larger numbers, we encourage folks to travel to Strawberry Reservoir’s walking trail near the fish hatchery building or attend their viewing event on September 16th by signing up on Eventbrite.” For more information on viewing events, visit www.wildlife.utah.gov.
