Wildlife officials are considering what waterbodies to stock fish in this year and the drought conditions are changing their usual approach. According to Monday’s announcement, the drought emergency order has prompted proactive measures to minimize drought impacts to Utah’s fisheries. Not all waterbodies will be stocked with their usual fish if there is concern over water levels. Lower water levels mean the water temperatures rise and there is less oxygen in the water. This combination can stress fish resulting in poor growth, disease, and even death. “The best management action we can take at these waterbodies is to reduce the number of fish in these waters because when water levels are low, we are more likely to maintain a fishery that has fewer fish than one that has a lot of fish,” shares DWR Sportfish Coordinator Randy Oplinger. “We try, whenever possible, to continue to provide a good fishing experience for anglers, up until we think that water levels will hit a critical level.” Wildlife officials have not yet announced specifically which waterbodies will and won’t be stocked.
