Koosharem Reservoir Survey — Fat Rainbo..

This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Michael Hadley, a fisheries biologist in the DWR's Southern Region, sent in this report on a Koosharem Reservoir Survey conducted April 26:

Even snow and a cold wind couldn't dampen spirits at seeing fat, healthy trout return to Koosharem Reservoir. Though numbers are still not high, all trout are in great condition and should provide some improved fish opportunities this year. Cutthroat trout made up the majority of the fish caught, while several rainbow trout and even a couple of brook trout were also sampled. We saw more fish in the 15-18 inch range than in recent years. The largest fish caught was a cutthroat trout that measured nearly 24 inches and weighed 5.5 lbs. The cold weather and water temperatures reduced our ability to catch Utah chubs, so it is difficult to say whether their numbers have been significantly reduced. What is clear, however, is that recent good water years have improved the ability of trout to compete with chubs and thrive. Photos:This cutthroat trout sampled at Koosharem Reservoir on April 26, 2011, measured nearly 24 inches and weighed 5.5 pounds

A pile of fat, healthy rainbow trout collected at Koosharem Reservoir on April 26, 2011.

Various sizes of cutthroat trout collected at Koosharem Reservoir on April 26, 2011.

Koosharem Reservoir Survey — Fat Rainbow Trout Up to 5 pounds