Beaverhead River Fishing Closure Begins Sept. 1 Due to Drought

DILLON, Mont. — A portion of the Beaverhead River will close to fishing earlier than usual as drought conditions force a reduction in flows.

A full fishing closure will take effect Sept. 1 from Clark Canyon Dam downstream to Pipe Organ Fishing Access Site.

The seasonal spawning closure for the same stretch of river, normally in effect from Oct. 1 through the third Saturday in May, will remain in place regardless of river conditions.

The early closure follows coordination among dam operators, irrigators and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. After several years of drought and declining water levels in Clark Canyon Reservoir, dam operators plan to reduce outflows beginning Sept. 1—about one month earlier than the normal transition to winter flows.

Inflows to Clark Canyon Reservoir are currently 157 cubic feet per second, and the reservoir is at less than 30% of its capacity. Several large downstream water users will also stop irrigation operations Sept. 1, in part to help limit impacts on the Beaverhead River fishery.

Low streamflows create stressful conditions for fish and make them more vulnerable to mortality associated with angling. FWP’s drought criteria allow fishing restrictions and closures when streamflows or water temperatures reach established thresholds.

FWP staff will continue monitoring flows and water temperatures in coordination with dam operators. Officials hope to avoid additional fishing closures downstream of Pipe Organ Fishing Access Site.

Other fishing regulations remain in effect on the Beaverhead River. Anglers can review Montana’s current fishing regulations and check the latest waterbody restrictions and closures before heading out.