For some, winter is a time to hibernate in the comfort of a warm home, enjoying a hot drink by a crackling fire. For others, winter offers a unique opportunity to try their hand at landing the native and once rare burbot in the Kootenai River. By reporting tags on these fish, you can help Fish and Game better understand burbot catch rates, harvest rates, and survival rates. This information helps improve the fishery for everyone who enjoys fishing in the area.
Reporting tags is easy and can be done over the phone (1-866-258-0338), online or as part of the Angler Science Program creel packet. If you see a tag while fishing for burbot in the Kootenai River this winter, please report the tag number and location of where you caught the fish to Fish and Game. This will help improve our understanding of these fish and ensure that they continue to thrive in their natural habitat. So don’t just sit by your fire this winter – get out there and start catching some burbot!