FWP cites four people for driving side-by-sides through Big Hole River

Game wardens with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks cited four people for driving their side-by-sides, or off road vehicles, through an area of the Big Hole River that is a common spawning ground for trout in late September.

The four people were cited for operating a vehicle off an authorized route and fined $135 each, according to FWP.

The incident happened on Sept. 28 at the Salmon Fly Fishing Access Site near Melrose. Video was posted online of the incident, then reported by NBC Montana, which led to public tips to identify the culprits.

The fishing access site has signs posted that tell visitors they cannot drive off-road in the area, and annual fishing closures to protect spawning trout on that stretch of the Big Hole and other southwestern Montana rivers where trout numbers have fallen in the past decade went into effect just days later, on Oct. 1.

Portions of the river have been closed for various parts of the summer because of warm water temperatures and low flows.

FWP said along with protecting spawning fish, staying on designated roads and trails helps protect the landscape and animals that live there.

“We want people to go out and have fun, but make sure you know and follow the rules. Please stay on open, designated roads and trails,” game warden Regan Dean said.