The Division of Wildlife Resources are continuing to remind the public of issues brought on by the drought. “Drought impacts fish by reducing the amount of water available in lakes, reservoirs and streams,” shares the DWR. “Smaller amounts of water heat up more quickly and reach higher temperatures, which is problematic for fish because warm water holds less oxygen than colder water. The combination of high temperatures and low oxygen can stress fish, causing poor growth and disease, and can sometimes be fatal to fish.” To reduce the likelihood of fish die-offs in some waterbodies with anticipated low water levels, the DWR is increasing the daily fish limits in many waterbodies to allow anglers to catch and keep more fish. With drought impacting water levels at many lakes and reservoirs around the state, anglers who plan to use boats during their fishing trips should be sure to check for updates on each waterbody to see if the boat ramps are open. The boat ramps at Steinaker and Red Fleet are both listed under Advisory.
