JACKSON, Wyo. — On Friday, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) announced that it is investigating a widespread fish die-off along the Salt River in Star Valley. Mortalities have been reported between the Salt River Range and the Palisades Reservoir in Alpine.
Local anglers flagged the problem, which prompted biologists to look into the die-off. Biologists have collected fish to be analyzed at WGFD Fish Health Laboratory in Laramie. No specific cause for the mortality event has been identified yet.
Water temperatures remain cool — around 62°F — and according to WGFD, observations show that the issue appears to be primarily affecting mountain whitefish.
“We appreciate the anglers who quickly brought this to our attention,” said Jackson Region Fisheries Biologist Darren Rhea in a press release. “Prompt reporting is critical for our effective response. We are gathering necessary samples to better understand the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.”
The Salt River remains open for all recreational activities, including fishing, although anglers can expect to see “significant numbers” of dead or dying fish.
Game and Fish has requested that the public report any fish mortalities observed in regional waterways by contacting the Jackson regional office.
