Colorado River trout population impacted by warmer water temperatures
The fishing on the Colorado River near Lee’s Ferry on the Fly is world-renowned – taking people to fish under Horseshoe Bend and near Glen Canyon Dam. However, increasing river temperatures have hurt fish, causing a ripple effect among local fishing businesses. Lake Powell is just under 40% full, so the water flowing into the Colorado River is much warmer. This has caused native fish numbers to dwindle and hurt local fishing companies. … Scott Rogers, Arizona Game and Fish Aquatic Wildlife Program manager, said warm water attracts nonnative fish and harms the trout population. “The problem is all these issues have impacted the fishery through primarily there the Trout’s ability to produce offspring,” Roger said. Foster said this has caused many fishing companies to go out of business. “There was as many as 20 fishing guides working this piece of river but now there are only five of us left. It’s due to catch rates and the size of the fish,” he said.
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