MISSOULA — Low water levels have state wildlife officials reducing fishing hours in certain western and southwestern Montana waterways heading into Independence Day weekend.
Beginning Friday, fishing won’t be allowed from 2 p.m. to midnight on Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers, as well as certain parts of Silver Bow and Flint creeks and the Clark Fork River. The restrictions also apply to the entire length of the Jefferson River and the entire length of the Big Hole River except for the stretch from Dickey Bridge to the Maiden Rock fishing access site.
Fish, Wildlife and Parks fisheries managers say afternoon heat combined with low water flows stress the fish.
Fisheries Manager Pat Saffel says the restrictions are being put into place earlier in the year than usual.
The reduced fishing hours will be in place until further notice.