ODFW Enacting "Hoot Owl" Regulations

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) yesterday announced the lower Deschutes River from the mouth to Sherars Falls will be under “hoot owl” regulations to protect fish. The announcement can be found here. 

In collaboration with the Conservation Angler and Native Fish Society, the Deschutes River Alliance submitted a letter to the ODFW in support of these actions in an effort to protect the fish of the lower Deschutes River. You can read the letter in full here. The recorded temperatures at the Moody gauge have reached as high as 74 degrees Fahrenheit which adds extreme stress to cold water fish.

ODFW reminds anglers to use best practices when fishing in areas that may require release of the fish:

• Use appropriate gear and land fish quickly. The longer the fight, the less likely the fish will survive.
• Avoid removing the fish from the water. 
• If taking a photo, cradle the fish at water level and quickly take the picture.
• Remove hooks quickly and gently while keeping the fish under water.
• Use long-nosed pliers or hemostats to back out a hook.
• If a fish is hooked deeply, cut the line near the hook.
• Revive fish (point them into slow current or move them back and forth until gills are working).
• When possible, let the fish swim out of your hands.

The DRA will continue to monitor this and other water quality issues and to advocate for healthy fisheries.