The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources issued an emergency fishing limit increase for two Uintah County reservoirs on May 12, citing low water levels caused by poor snowpack and anticipated drought impacts.
According to a statement from the Division of Wildlife Resources, the daily fishing limits at Crouse Reservoir and Nine Mile Reservoir have been increased to ensure anglers can harvest fish before water levels decline further throughout the summer. DWR Director Riley Peck said the agency wants to allow for harvesting so that fish are used rather than wasted as drought conditions persist.
The emergency increase for Crouse Reservoir allows for a daily limit of eight trout of any species and remains in effect from May 11 through December 31. Peck noted that increased harvest is intended to improve the survival rate of any remaining fish populations in these waterbodies.
While Uintah County faces emergency management due to drought, other Utah waterbodies maintain established seasonal traditions. At Bear Lake, the annual Cisco Disco features a mid-winter cookout centered around the Bonneville Cisco, a fish species unique to the northern Utah body of water.
The Cisco run occurs during a short 10-day window in late January when fishermen gather to reach a 30-fish limit. The event, which includes community traditions like fried fish and scones, serves as a significant seasonal fixture for the Bear Lake area.
