WILLIAMS LAKE - Unseasonably warm water temperatures have prompted the Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection to temporarily close sport fishing on the Horsefly River.

Warm air temperatures and low water levels have contributed to water temperatures exceeding 20 C on the river that offers a catch-and-release fishery of large rainbow trout. Evidence shows that water temperatures over 18 C result in high catch-and-release mortality rates ­ sometimes as high as 40 per cent.

The closure commences July 25 and affects the Horsefly River and tributaries downstream from the Horsefly River Falls.

The temporary ban will affect five authorized guides on the river as well as resident anglers.

Ministry officials will monitor the Horsefly River and the ban will be lifted when conditions return to normal.

Contact:

Liz Bicknell
Director of Communications
250 387-9973