Fishermen in eastern Idaho have a limited window to harvest fish from three Franklin County reservoirs as water levels drop due to drought conditions. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game announced salvage orders for Lamont and Johnson Reservoirs on Thursday, allowing the public to collect dead or dying fish before the bodies are drained completely.
As reported by eastidahonews.com, the Consolidated Irrigation Company is lowering water levels in Lamont and Johnson Reservoirs to meet irrigation demands during the statewide drought. Officials anticipate the reservoirs will be fully drained by September 20. Because fish cannot survive in unsuitable water conditions, the agency has suspended standard bag limits, possession limits, size restrictions, and other regulations for dead fish.
“An order of salvage is warranted to maximize public use of these fish,” Fish and Game stated in a news release.
Rules for Salvage Fishing
Anglers must possess a valid Idaho fishing license to participate. While restrictions on harvesting dead fish are lifted, live fish cannot be removed from the water. The agency strictly prohibits the use of firearms, explosives, chemicals, or electric current to remove fish.
The salvage order for Lamont and Johnson Reservoirs is effective from September 8 through December 31. A separate salvage order for Winder Reservoir, located nearby, went into effect last month and remains in place until October 31. All three reservoirs are scheduled to begin filling again on January 1, 2027.
Lamont Reservoir is located approximately three miles north of Preston. Johnson Reservoir is also within Franklin County. The rapid decrease in water levels has prompted the agency to limit watercraft use to fishing vessels only during the salvage period.
Invasive Species Inspections Required
To prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, all watercraft used at these reservoirs must have been inspected by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture within the previous five days. Anglers are required to display proof of inspection in their vehicle window or present it upon request by officials.
The salvage orders reflect a common practice during drought years when irrigation districts prioritize agricultural water needs over recreational fishing habitats. By allowing the public to harvest fish that would otherwise perish, Fish and Game aims to reduce waste and provide an opportunity for anglers despite the challenging conditions.
For more information regarding the salvage orders or specific regulations, residents can contact Fish and Game’s Southeast Regional Office at (208) 232-4703. The agency encourages anglers to check current water levels and safety conditions before heading out, as rapidly changing environments can pose hazards.
As irrigation districts manage limited supplies, recreational users must adapt to shifting priorities. The temporary suspension of fishing rules offers a pragmatic solution for both resource management and public access.