TIP OF THE WEEK: Fishing and Fighting Trout in Warm Water Conditions

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As the summer sun climbs high and temperatures soar, anglers face a significant challenge: how to ethically and effectively catch trout in warm water conditions. Trout are sensitive to rising water temperatures, which can significantly impact their health and survival after being caught. Here’s a detailed guide on understanding these challenges and best practices to ensure both an enjoyable and responsible fishing experience.

Understanding Trout and Warm Water Stress
Trout thrive in cold, oxygen-rich waters. As temperatures rise above 65°F (18°C), the dissolved oxygen levels in water decrease, leading to stressful conditions for trout. When water temperatures exceed 70°F (21°C), the stress on trout increases exponentially, making them more vulnerable to exhaustion and mortality.

Warm water exacerbates the metabolic rate of trout, making it harder for them to recover from the exertion of being caught. This is particularly true for catch-and-release practices, where the goal is to return the fish to the water unharmed.

Best Practices for Fishing Trout in Warm Water
1. Know Your Water Temperature: If the temperature is above 68°F (20°C), consider postponing your fishing trip or targeting a different species less sensitive to warm water.

2. Fish During Cooler Times: Plan your fishing trips during the early morning or late evening when water temperatures are at their lowest.

3. Seek Out Cold-Water Refuges: Look for cold-water springs, deeper pools, and shaded areas. These spots tend to have cooler temperatures and higher oxygen levels, providing a better environment for trout.

4. Use Heavier Gear: Opt for heavier rods, stronger lines, and barbless hooks. This allows you to land fish quickly, reducing the fight time and subsequent stress on the trout.

4b. Learn to fight fish efficiently with SIDE-PRESSURE as in video above.

5. Minimize Handling Time or Don’t at all: Wet your hands before handling the fish to protect their slime coat, which helps prevent infections. Use a rubberized net to reduce injury, and keep the fish in the water as much as possible while removing the hook.

6. Properly Revive Fish: Take the time to properly revive it. Hold the fish gently in the water, facing into the current, until it swims away on its own. This process helps re-oxygenate their gills and recover from the stress of the catch.

We teach this and many other tips in all of our FISHALONG Courses. 

SUMMARY:

Take note of water temperature when fishing and then apply the above techniques to conserve the resource.

UPCOMING COURSES TO HIGHLIGHT 

All of our Tributaries are open!  These are the greens and the blues of the fishing slopes.  Check available dates out HERE. 

ENTIRE COURSE CALENDAR HERE 

Our University of Fly Fishing is the most unique, comprehensive fly fishing education available.    

With current flows, now is a perfect time to float the Yakima in a personal watercraft!  You can learn how to best use a PWC in one of our PWC Fishalongs! They are one of my favorite classes to teach!  

• July 2nd             Drift Boat Rowing
• July 3rd.             PWC Fishalong
• July 6th              Fly Fishing 101/201
• July 7th              Fly Fishing 301