The emergency order, issued May 11 by DWR Director Riley Peck, comes in response to extremely low water levels caused by poor snowpack and ongoing drought conditions impacting reservoirs across Utah.

Under the temporary rule change, the daily fish limit at Nine Mile Reservoir has been increased to 16 trout per angler. The change will remain in effect through Oct. 1.

DWR officials say the increase is intended to help anglers make use of the fish population before declining water levels create more difficult survival conditions later this summer.

“With the drought-related low water levels at Crouse Reservoir and Nine Mile Reservoir, we want anglers to be able to harvest these fish so they can be used and not wasted as water levels continue to decline throughout the summer,” Peck said. “We hope anglers can prioritize fishing at these waterbodies because increased harvest will hopefully improve the survival of any remaining fish, as well.”

For many local residents, Nine Mile Reservoir has long been a favorite destination for family fishing trips and weekend recreation. The reservoir, located in Sanpete County’s scenic foothills, often attracts anglers seeking rainbow trout and cooler mountain temperatures during the summer months.

The DWR said current drought conditions and reduced runoff have significantly lowered water levels at the reservoir, creating concerns about fish habitat and oxygen levels as temperatures continue to rise.

Officials are encouraging anglers to take advantage of the expanded limit while conditions allow.

The emergency changes also apply to Crouse Reservoir in Uintah County, where the daily limit has been increased to eight trout of any species through Dec. 31.

All other rules and regulations outlined in the 2026 Utah Fishing Guidebook remain in effect.

Additional information about drought impacts on Utah fisheries and fishing opportunities can be found through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.