CPW lifts final voluntary fishing closure in Northwest Region

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  John Livingston
Southwest Region Public Information Officer
970-759-9590 / [email protected]
@CPW_SW

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. – Recent weather patterns combined with cooler overnight temperatures have led to improved conditions on the Yampa River, prompting Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to lift the voluntary fishing closure. 

Effective immediately, CPW has removed the full-day voluntary fishing closure on the Yampa River from the Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area to the western edge of Steamboat Springs city limits. This was the final voluntary fishing closure in effect for the Northwest Region. 

“I would like to thank our anglers for complying with fishing closures throughout the region this year,” said Northwest Region Senior Aquatic Biologist Ben Felt. “Closures are a necessary measure to ensure the resiliency of these fisheries. Without your help, we wouldn’t be able to conserve them for our future generations.”

A recent collaborative effort involving CPW, Colorado Division of Water Resources, Colorado Water Trust, the Catamount Metro Water District, the Upper Yampa Water Conservancy District and the City of Steamboat Springs finalized a water release plan out of Stagecoach Reservoir for the near term. 

“During a meeting Wednesday afternoon, CPW’s recommendations were adopted regarding releases out of Stagecoach Reservoir for the coming weeks that should maintain conditions such that voluntary fishing closures can be lifted,” said Area Aquatic Biologist Billy Atkinson. “We are very appreciative of the opportunity to provide input on water release strategies and want to recognize our partners for their efforts to engage with CPW to develop a plan that is beneficial to the Yampa River.”

Anglers are encouraged to check current fishing conditions and fishing closure information on the CPW website or by calling their local CPW Office. 

To learn more about fishing in Colorado, go to our website.