Utah’s Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) announced a record-breaking milestone this year: nearly 13 million fish were stocked in waterways across the state. This significant effort aims to enhance recreational fishing opportunities while supporting aquatic ecosystems.
Among the fish introduced, approximately two million are larvae, which will take about two years to grow to a catchable size. These baby walleye and wipers were released into Willard Bay, though their survival rate is expected to be low. “Maybe only about 5% of those are going to turn into adults,” explained Craig Schaugaard of DWR’s Aquatics section.
Despite this natural attrition, the rest of the stocked fish—including trout, Kokanee salmon, and bass—are ready for anglers to catch in Utah’s lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. A total of 722 bodies of water were stocked this year, highlighting the extensive reach of the DWR’s efforts.
Schaugaard emphasized that changes in stocking methods have contributed to this success. Adjustments, such as shifting release schedules to account for warmer water temperatures, help improve the survival rates of fish during their transition into the wild.
The state’s 13 fish hatcheries play a crucial role in maintaining fish populations. Without these facilities, natural reproduction alone would not sustain Utah’s vibrant sport fishing industry. By cultivating and releasing millions of fish annually, these hatcheries ensure that anglers have access to diverse and abundant fishing opportunities.
This year’s achievement underscores the DWR’s commitment to supporting both the state’s fishing enthusiasts and the overall health of its aquatic ecosystems. With new practices in place and a focus on sustainability, Utah’s waterways are set to remain a thriving destination for anglers of all skill levels.
Whether casting a line for trout, bass, or salmon, anglers can look forward to a robust fishing season, thanks to this record-setting initiative.
Image/Source: kslnewsradio
