Spring Trout Surveys Estimates for Upper Jefferson River Basin

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is continuing its focus on trout health and population monitoring in the upper Jefferson River basin as part of a cooperative research effort that began last year.

Trout surveys in 2023 found population estimates to be at or near historical lows in sections of the Big Hole, Beaverhead and Ruby rivers, coupled with observations of sick trout. Since then, FWP has collaborated with Montana State University in three PhD studies looking at causes of mortality for adult trout, how tributaries contribute to mainstem trout populations, and ways to enhance proactive fish...