Conservation closure issued for sturgeon fishing on portion of CJ Strike Reservoir

Idaho Fish and Game will post signs at access points on the Snake River arm of CJ Strike Reservoir to notify anglers of a conservation closure for sturgeon fishing.

The purpose of the closure is to minimize additional stress and mortality amid abnormally low dissolved oxygen levels and high water temperatures. In recent weeks, Fish and Game verified 16 dead sturgeon found within the closure area, ranging in size between 5 and 9 feet.

According to Fish and Game, Idaho’s sturgeon population has shrunk by 15 percent since 2022. In recent years, natural reproduction has been inconsistent at best and nonexistent at worst.

The closure will be from Aug. 2 through Sept. 25, 2026.

For more information, click HERE.