OUTDOORS: Fresno is open, as day use at Fishing Access Sites begins to increase

The weather is warming up, and in some areas of Montana, that's going to mean the springtime fishing will get good. And that includes at Fresno Reservoir west of Havre.

Of course, COVID-19 has played a part in fishing access, as well as many other outdoor activities since spring arrived, but, with Montana Gov. Steve Bullock's Phase I re-opening of the state, fishing access has been opened up.

Fresno currently has no fishing access restrictions, according to Fresno's site on the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website. However, overnight camping, group sites and public restrooms are still closed, according to an FWP posting. The site also says: Please check the FWP website for specific site restrictions or closures. Group sites, including fishing piers, will open May 1. At all sites, as in other aspects of life, social distancing guidelines must be strictly followed. Visitor centers, park offices and FWP lobbies are still closed to the public at this time.

FWP also recently released a press release noting that day use at Fishing Access Sites around the state has started to, and will continue to, pick up.

Though visitation numbers at FWP's 338 Fishing Access Sites across the state are not available, anecdotal evidence certainly suggests visitation is up at these sites as well. Higher than normal user rates for this time of year have been observed at many sites spanning all corners of the state, especially near urban centers.

"Our FAS system is such an amazing resource for Montanans, and it's obvious they're enjoying them in increasing numbers this spring," FWP Fisheries Division Administrator Eileen Ryce said.

State park usage is also expected to increase during the month of May.

"We understand that our parks and trails play a critical role in how people deal with the stress and uncertainty that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought," Montana State Parks Administrator Beth Shumate said. "Keeping our parks open for all Montanans is a priority as our sites provide invaluable mental and physical health benefits."

Of course, whether it's fishing, hikling, camping or any other use of public lands and waterways in Montana, Bullock and the state are strong emphasizing continued coronavirus safety practices, even on the outdoors. Visitors to Fishing Access Sites and state parks should remember to practice social distancing and leave-no-trace principles, including packing out all trash.

And while Fresno is open, and will see increased fishing activity as the weather continues to chug toward summer, the Fresno Chapter of Walleyes Unlimited is hopeful about holding its annual Fresno Challenge.

According to the Fresno Walleye's website, the annual Fresno Youth Challenge (June 12) and the Fresno Challenge Fishing Tournament (June 13-14) have yet to be canceled or postponed due to COVID-19, unlike the 2020 Fresno Chapter Banquet, which was scheduled for last month.