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Idaho Power releases 120,000 trout at popular fishing spots

Idaho Power releases 120,000 trout
Idaho Power releases 120,000 trout
Posted at 10:34 AM, Oct 05, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-05 12:34:49-04

Anglers looking forward to fall fishing on the Snake River got some good news this week, as Idaho Power added more than 120,000 pan-sized rainbow trout to popular spots.

More than 52,000 rainbow trout were released at C.J. Strike Reservoir south of Mountain Home, officials said. The release was split between the Cottonwood and Jack’s Creek access points. An additional 15,000 fish were released into the Lower Salmon Falls Reservoir near Bell Rapids and 4,000 fish went to Centennial Park near Twin Falls.

Some of the fish released at Centennial Park and Bell Rapids have jaw tags. Anglers who report catching one of these tagged fish will have their names entered in an annual drawing for $1,000, according to Idaho Power.

“The tagging program helps the company evaluate the success of our stocking efforts,” said Idaho Power fisheries biologist Ben Reingold.

Idaho Power’s federal licenses to operate hydroelectric facilities on the Snake River require the company to provide recreational opportunities for the public.

The fish released this week were raised in the Hagerman Valley and average 10 to 12 inches long. Fish that aren’t caught right away can grow several inches per year, especially in C.J. Strike, which provides excellent food and habitat for trout and other game species, officials pointed out.

Anglers who catch a jaw-tagged fish should note the tag number, the date the fish was caught, the location and whether the fish was released. Call 1-800-388-6011 to be eligible for the drawing. For more information about tagged trout or Idaho Power’s numerous fish programs, visit idahopower.com/fish[idahopower.com].