Latest Big Hole Closure: Melrose Bridge To Notch Bottom FAS

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will now be imposing a full closure to fishing on the Big Hole River from Melrose Bridge to Notch Bottom Fishing Access Site (southeast of Glen) effective Tuesday, August 20, until conditions improve. Here's a full look at current closures and restrictions on the Big Hole:

Flows on this stretch of the Big Hole (Melrose Bridge to Notch Bottom FAS) have reached, and dropped below 150 cubic feet per second -  the trigger listed in the Big Hole River Drought Management Plan as the point of full fishing closure.

Here's a look at the extent of current closures and restrictions on the Big Hole River:

• Headwaters to the mouth of the North Fork Big Hole - FULL CLOSURE
• Mouth of the North Fork Big Hole to Dickie Bridge - Closed 2 pm - midnight
• Melrose Bridge to the mouth (confluence with Jefferson River) - FULL CLOSURE

In addition, in Region 3, the entire Jefferson and Lower Madison River remain under "hoot owl" closures (2 pm - midnight)

FWP biologists will continue to monitor all southwest Montana rivers to ensure the health of local fish populations. FWP appreciates the patience of the angling community.