CPW invites anglers to discuss a potential regulation change for Fish Creek and a short reach of the Yampa River

Rachael Gonzales
Northwest Region Public Information Officer
970-773-8587 / [email protected]
Twitter: @CPW_NW CPW invites anglers to discuss a potential regulation change for Fish Creek and a short reach of the Yampa River

STEAMBOAT  SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Parks and Wildlife invites anglers to attend an in-person fishery management public meeting on Thurs., June 20 in Steamboat Springs. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about a proposed fishing regulation change on Fish Creek and a short reach of the Yampa River.

Meeting Details:
When: Thurs., June 20 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. 
Where: CPW Steamboat Springs Office, 925 Weiss Dr, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487

CPW is proposing to improve protections of the Yampa River Mountain Whitefish population by formalizing a fall fishing closure from Oct. 1 through Nov. 15 on Fish Creek, a tributary to the Yampa River, and 300 feet of the mainstem Yampa River at the confluence.

“We have been monitoring the whitefish spawn run in this section of the Yampa River system for several years,” said Bill Atkinson, Steamboat Springs Area Aquatic Biologist. “Through these observations, CPW has determined this tributary to be a critical spawning habitat for the Mountain Whitefish, which is why we feel going from a voluntary fishing closure to a mandatory closure is going to be crucial as we strive to expand this native fish population.”

The meeting will begin with a brief presentation by CPW Aquatic Biologist Bill Atkinson followed by an opportunity for attendees to ask questions on the presentation and the proposed regulation change.

“Getting public feedback on draft proposals is critical in formulating new regulations. This will be an opportunity for CPW to hear from our angling community before finalizing any proposed recommendations,” said Atkinson.

For more information about fishing in Colorado, please visit the CPW website.