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C.J. Strike Reservoir stocked with trout from Idaho Power
Idaho Power added 50,000 pan-sized rainbow trout to C.J. Strike Reservoir late last week to benefit local anglers.
The company alternated the releases between Cottonwood and Jack's Creek accesses at the reservoir, which covers roughly 7,500 acres in Elmore and Owyhee counties.
A popular fishing and camping spot, Idaho Power owns and maintains four campgrounds and a day-use park at the reservoir.
"These fish will provide a lot of opportunities for anglers this spring and summer," said Idaho Power biologist Ben Reingold.
"Our trout-stocking program is one way Idaho Power balances its operations with environmental stewardship," he added.
The utility company's federal licenses to operate its hydroelectric facilities on the Snake River require the company to preserve and enhance recreational opportunities. As part of that effort, the company stocks fish at various locations along the Middle Snake each year.
The fish are raised at a hatchery in the Hagerman Valley and released when they reach about 10 inches in length. Those that aren't caught right away can grow several inches per year.
Some trout released previously have metal jaw tags. Anglers are asked to report any tagged fish they catch by recording the tag number, date, the reward value (if any) and the approximate location where the fish was caught.
People that catch these fish are asked to call toll free 1-800-388-6011 and provide their name, mailing address, telephone number and whether the fish was kept or released. Those who report tagged fish through the toll-free number are entered into a drawing for $1,000.