RIFLE I The Silt Water Conservancy District is announcing that they will need to drain Harvey Gap Reservoir to inspect the dam outlet structure, and to save as many fish as possible, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has authorized an emergency fish salvage at the reservoir located north of Silt, effective immediately.
Using conventional, legal tackle only, anglers are encouraged to catch and keep as many fish as they can, including tiger muskie, northern pike, channel catfish, black crappie, trout, yellow perch, bluegill and largemouth and smallmouth bass.
The use of explosives, toxicants, firearms, spearfishing, jugs or trotlines, archery, gigs or electricity will remain illegal.
Anglers can fish at night to encourage the salvage of channel catfish.
All anglers are required to have a valid Colorado fishing license and the usual restrictions will remain in place at all other lakes in the area, as well as throughout the state.
According to the Silt Water Conservancy District, the reservoir will remain mostly empty until the dam is thoroughly inspected. Once the reservoir is permanently refilled, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will restock the popular fishery with approved species. However, when that will occur is undetermined.
The public is advised to use caution as deep mud will be present as the reservoir is drained.
Signs alerting anglers about the fish salvage will be posted.
Anglers are advised to call Rifle Gap State Park at 970-625-1607 to get the latest conditions if they plan to launch a boat.
Harvey Gap State Park is a day-use area only; however, fishing is allowed throughout the night. Overnight camping and pets are prohibited.
A valid park pass is required, available at self service stations at Harvey Gap State Park or at the Visitor Center at nearby Rifle Gap State Park.
For questions about the reservoir draining, inspection and repairs, contact the Silt Water Conservancy District at 970-876-2393 or by email at [email protected].
