Colorado Anglers Encouraged to Catch Unlimited Fish as Reservoir Water Levels Drop

Colorado officials are encouraging anglers to take advantage of a temporary opportunity to catch and keep unlimited fish from Timnath Reservoir as drought conditions and falling water levels threaten the reservoir's fish population.

Beginning July 13, anyone with a valid Colorado fishing license can catch and keep an unlimited number of fish under an emergency public salvage authorization issued by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The temporary measure removes normal bag and possession limits in an effort to reduce the number of fish expected to die as water levels continue to decline.

Timnath officials said the reservoir serves as an agricultural water source, and water releases to downstream farmers are expected to significantly lower water levels through the summer.

The town partnered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to create the emergency fishing opportunity, hoping anglers can harvest fish before deteriorating conditions lead to a large fish kill.

Officials say reducing the number of fish remaining in the reservoir could help protect water quality, minimize nuisance conditions and lessen impacts on wildlife, visitors and reservoir operations.

The reservoir is expected to reach its lowest water level in September. The emergency authorization will remain in effect until Colorado Parks and Wildlife determines it is no longer necessary.

Fishing is allowed daily from 6 a.m. until 8:30 p.m., or dusk, whichever comes first, and anglers with a valid Colorado fishing license may keep all fish they legally catch while the emergency order remains in place.

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