Partial spring fish population estimates completed for Big Hole River

Fisheries staff with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are conducting annual fish population estimates in the Big Hole River. Estimates from two of the four sampling areas are completed, showing several increases in trout numbers from historic lows last year.

In the Melrose section, which is immediately downstream of Salmon Fly Fishing Access Site, biologists found an estimated 192 rainbow trout per mile and 506 brown trout per mile. These figures are increases from 2023 estimates, which were 161 rainbow trout and 324 brown trout. Both estimates for 2024 still remain well below the long-term aver...