Closures and restrictions lifted on several western Montana rivers

HELENA – While air temperatures remain hot, smoky conditions have caused water temperatures to cool down to meet the criteria to lift fishing restrictions and closures on several rivers in western Montana. The restrictions and closures will be lifted, Wednesday, Sept. 7.

All restrictions on rivers in Region 2, including the Bitterroot and the Clark Fork, will be lifted. In addition, restrictions on the Gallatin and East Gallatin in Region 3, southwestern Montana, will be lifted.

Angling restrictions are implemented based on several considerations: stream flow, water temperatures, angling pressure and other angling restrictions in the area that may divert use to waterways where circumstances are increasing stress on the fishery.

Before you go fishing, please be aware of the conditions. Numerous other rivers in Montana are also under fishing restrictions. For a full list, visit FWP’s website: https://fwp.mt.gov/news/current-closures-restrictions/waterbody-closures.