Officials close Jeff to fishing

Consistent high water temperatures and low stream flows have prompted Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to close the entire Jefferson River to all fishing.

The announcement was made Monday afternoon.

Regional Fisheries Manager Travis Horton warns water levels are so critically low that restrictions may remain in place for weeks or even longer.

“What has us so concerned right now is the lack of water. It’s all about water when it comes to sustaining healthy fish populations. Even if the temperatures drop for a while, we still need to wait for flows to improve before adding back the stress of angling,” he said.