Trout populations in the Big Hole river increased slightly after hitting historic lows last year, according to preliminary estimates released by Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks.
Estimates from FWP were completed for sections in the middle stretch of the river. Rainbow trout numbers counted by researchers increased by about one percent. Brown trout numbers doubled from 2023’s lows. However, both populations are still well below historic averages.
FWP reports a good water year in 2023 explained the population growth, as it resulted in increased survival rates for juvenile fish.
Scientists with FWP and Montana State University are working on a mortality study this summer, hoping to identify causes behind a population crash affecting trout in the Jefferson basin.
-
The Milk River Project provides drinking and irrigation water to thousands of people along the Hi-Line. After a catastrophic failure in 2024, managers say irrigation will soon be restored in part. And, a lawsuit filed by conservation groups alleges water quality violations in Big Hole River management. -
State biologists have been tagging trout across southwest Montana to better understand the population’s health after years of declines. They report encouraging signs, but populations are still below average due in large part to an extended drought. -
State environmental regulators have denied a petition to list the Big Hole River as impaired. Water conservation groups worry this will continue to harm the river, and its aquatic life. -
In the '90s, whirling disease hit trout populations hard in Montana, at one point leading to a 95% decline in rainbow trout in the Madison River. It sparked concern among biologists, anger in tourist towns and even played a role in a murder mystery novel. It also inspired this week's question: What's happening with whirling disease and other threats to trout? -
Four people were fined $135 each by Montana game wardens for riding off-road vehicles across a closed stretch of the Big Hole river. -
The National Weather Service is forecasting a powerful windstorm across much of Montana Friday. Wind speeds between between 20 and 30 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph are predicted.; Wildlife officials are reminding anglers of seasonal fishing closures in the Jefferson Basin.
