BOISE, Idaho (News Release) – Idaho Power added 50,000 pan-sized rainbow trout to C.J. Strike Reservoir on Wednesday for the benefit of area anglers.

The company alternated the release between C.J. Strike’s Cottonwood and Jack’s Creek accesses. The reservoir covers roughly 7,500 acres in Elmore and Owyhee counties. It is a popular fishing and camping spot. Idaho Power owns and maintains four campgrounds and a day-use park at the reservoir.

“These fish will provide a lot of opportunities for anglers this spring and summer,” said Idaho Power Biologist Ben Reingold. “Our trout-stocking program is one way Idaho Power balances its operations with environmental stewardship.”

Idaho Power’s federal licenses to operate its hydroelectric facilities on the Snake River require the company to preserve and enhance recreational opportunities. As part of that effort, the company stocks various locations along the Middle Snake each year.

These fish are raised at a hatchery in the Hagerman Valley, and they are about 10 inches long when released. Those that aren’t caught right away can grow several inches per year.

Some trout released previously have metal jaw tags. Anglers are asked to report any tagged fish they catch by recording the tag number, date, the reward value (if any) and the approximate location where the fish was caught.

They can call toll free, 1-800-388-6011, and provide information that includes their name, mailing address, telephone number and whether the fish was kept or released. Anglers who report tagged fish through the toll-free number are entered into a drawing for $1,000.

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