Administrative Rules of Montana
Department 12 - FISH, WILDLIFE, AND PARKS
Chapter 12.5 - RESOURCE PROTECTION
Subchapter 12.5.5 - Angling Restrictions and Fishing Closures
Rule 12.5.508 - REOPENING WATERS

Universal Citation: MT Admin Rules 12.5.508

Current through Register Vol. 6, March 22, 2024

(1) Except on waters with a drought management plan, an angling restriction or fishing closure will remain in effect until reopening criteria described in (2), (3), or (4) have been met.

(2) The department may reopen streams managed for nonnative salmonids when the department determines in its discretion that daily maximum water temperature does not exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days.

(3) The department may reopen streams managed for cutthroat trout when the department determines that daily maximum water temperature does not exceed 66 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days.

(4) Streams designated by the department to have bull trout shall remain closed until the following conditions occur:

(a) daily maximum water temperature equals or does not exceed 60 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days; and

(b) when flow regimes provide adequate security habitat.

(5) Reopening waters may be delayed by the department if:

(a) reopening criteria is forecast to be met for a short duration;

(b) conditions on priority waters defined by the department in the Statewide Fisheries Management Plan do not provide adequate security habitat; or

(c) angling pressure due to restrictions and closures on other waterbodies has the potential to contribute to excessive fish mortality.

AUTH: 87-1-301, MCA; IMP: 87-1-301, MCA

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