Angler reports of tagged fish will help inform trout research
BOZEMAN – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff, in cooperation with Montana State University, have begun the second year of tagging trout in the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby and Madison rivers.
This effort is part of ongoing research aimed at understanding trout declines and fish health concerns in rivers in the upper Missouri River Basin. When anglers report these tags, it helps researchers better understand how environmental conditions and other factors contribute to population recruitment, survival and mortality of trout.
“This is a great chance for anglers to take an active part in this research that will benefit the fishery,” said FWP Fisheries Manager Mike Duncan. “We need your help. Please report the tagged fish you catch.”
Each tag has a unique number and will be attached to the fish near the dorsal fin. Anglers who catch a tagged fish should use clippers to remove the tag as close to the skin as possible while minimizing handling time and exposure to air for the fish, then submit a report for each tagged fish they catch from the four rivers mentioned above. These reports will include information such as the tag number, date, location, condition of the fish, gear type used, and whether the angler released or harvested the fish.
A how-to video on this process is available on FWP’s website.
Anglers who submit reports may be eligible for rewards. Anglers who report blue tags will be entered into regular drawings for gear and fishing trips. Yellow tag reports are each worth $100.
Anglers may encounter fish that are still carrying tags from last year. These tags may be covered with a thin film of algae, making them less noticeable. However, the same reporting process and reward opportunities apply to these tags.
Anglers can submit reports by visiting mtcfru.org/msutag or by calling 406-994-2384.
Anglers and other river recreationists may also meet staff from MSU while on the river. These creel clerks will be interviewing recreationists as part of the research effort.
This research kicked off in 2024 after annual sampling in 2023 found fish numbers to be at or near historical lows in sections of the Big Hole, Beaverhead and Ruby rivers. Since then, FWP has been working closely with MSU to study fish mortality, recruitment and health.
To learn more about the cooperative research, click here.
Source: FWP
Photo: Pixabay
