Summer is in full swing, which means air and water temperatures are increasing, prompting Wyoming Game and Fish Department to remind anglers to avoid catch and release or at least use proper technique. Being caught and released in the warm surface water like Flaming Gorge is stressful for fish. Green River fisheries biologist Eddie Carlson explains that pulling a cold water species like kokanee salmon from 45°F to 65°F water is life-threatening. Their chances of surviving if released are low. When it comes to trout, using the proper techniques to catch and release is crucial to ensuring fish have a chance to survive. Trout experience increased mortality at prolonged exposure to water temperatures greater than 75 degrees Fahrenheit and brief exposure to temperatures over 80 degrees can be lethal. Anglers who adjust their practices can help more trout survive the heat. Do not squeeze or touch the fish’s gills and keep fish in the water as much as possible. Fish early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Land fish rapidly to reduce exhaustion stress and consider keeping what you catch, within regulation, when water is at or above 65 degrees.
