SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources issues a stern reminder to the public against illegally introducing fish into water bodies after the recent discovery of an unlawfully released walleye at Strawberry Reservoir.

The DWR received a report on Dec. 21, from an angler who had caught a walleye at Strawberry Reservoir. Following verification, the DWR believes that someone illegally introduced this fish species into the reservoir. Only one walleye has been reported at this time.

Illegally transporting live fish between water bodies or taking them home alive is strictly prohibited in Utah. Dumping unwanted aquarium fish into a water body is also against the law, carrying the potential for a class A misdemeanor.

When a fish species is introduced unlawfully, it can have detrimental effects on the local fishery, including preying on and outcompeting other fish species, introducing diseases, and negatively impacting water quality.

DWR Sportfish Coordinator Trina Hedrick emphasizes the extensive and expensive efforts required to restore a water body after illegal fish introductions, often involving rotenone treatments that result in the eradication of all fish. Plans are underway for comprehensive monitoring of Strawberry Reservoir in the spring, focusing on potential walleye spawning locations. Anglers are urged to report any walleye sightings to assist in gauging the extent of the issue.

Strawberry Reservoir, recognized as a Blue Ribbon Fishery, offers some of Utah’s finest fishing experiences. The DWR annually stocks cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon in the reservoir.

DWR Fisheries Biologist Alan Ward expresses concern that walleye could disrupt the management of current trout and salmon populations through competition and predation. Ward highlights extensive surveys indicating that 98% of anglers prefer the existing trout and salmon species, making the illegal introduction of walleye a threat to the carefully cultivated fishery.

Anglers who catch additional walleye at Strawberry Reservoir are urged to promptly kill them and report the incident to the DWR at 800-662-3337, including a photo of the fish and its GPS coordinates. A reward is offered by Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife for information leading to the conviction of the individual responsible for the illegal introduction.

Utah residents are encouraged to report any invasive fish findings or instances of illegal fish introduction by calling 800-662-3337. Concerns about fisheries can also be reported to the nearest DWR office.

To learn more about the repercussions of illegal fish introductions, visit the “Don’t Ditch a Fish” page on the DWR website.

Newsletter