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Low Water Threatens Fish at Dry Fork Reservoir
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CHINOOK, Mont. - Area anglers are being urged to quickly harvest several species of game fish that will likely die this summer due to low water levels at Dry Fork Reservoir north of Chinook.

Extremely low water levels and rising temperatures are expected to cause a die-off of the reservoir's rainbow trout, northern pike, walleye, black crappie and yellow perch stocks. The reservoir is especially known for its pike, and large fish are fairly common.

"Eventually, we're going to lose it," said Tim Roth, a Region 6 fisheries technician with the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks. "We're encouraging folks to keep fish they catch there, no matter the size."

While the department is encouraging utilization of the game fish for food, anglers are reminded that all state regulations remain in effect at Dry Fork Reservoir, including daily and possession limits.

At full pool, the reservoir covers about 300 surface acres. But unpredictable inflows and prolonged drought have plagued the impoundment. Region 6 Fisheries Manager Bill Wiedenheft said the fishery there was destroyed in 2001 because of low water. Subsequent re-introductions and more stable water levels helped rejuvenate fish stocks, but additional storage issues have occurred the past few years.

To find the reservoir, take U.S. Highway 2 to the east side of Chinook and turn north on Elloam Road. After traveling north about four miles, turn right at the sign on Middle Road, stay on the main two-track, and cross an old steel bridge.

The first spur road to the reservoir leads to the earthen dam. Roth said the dam is on private property and should not be driven across or parked on. Other spur roads in the vicinity lead to federal Bureau of Land Management lands, which are open to the public down to the water's edge.

There is no boat ramp at Dry Fork Reservoir, and shore conditions are too steep and muddy to use a boat trailer. However, the water body is suitable for other portable small watercraft, including rowboats, canoes and float tubes. Fishing also can be productive from shore, especially during morning and evening hours. For more information, call (406) 265-6177, extension 225 or 226.

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