The Big Wood Canal Company recently notified Fish and Game that they will be closing the gates in Magic Dam in late August or early September, functionally de-watering the Big Wood River below the dam and the Richfield Canal. The gates are closing earlier than normal due to a low winter snowpack, regional drought conditions and since Magic Reservoir has delivered its entire active storage capacity this summer.
Water control gates that provide water into the Richfield Canal
Effective August 30, 2020 Fish and Game has ordered that bag and possession limits be removed on portions of the Big Wood River below the dam. The boundaries of the fish salvage are from a point beginning at the railroad trestle, approximately 1.25 miles downstream of the dam, extending to the State Highway 75 Bridge. The order also includes the Richfield Canal from the upstream point of diversion from the Big Wood River to its confluence with the Little Wood River near Richfield, Idaho. Anglers are reminded that some areas of the Richfield Canal may be on private property so permission must be obtained from the landowner prior to fishing in these areas. The fish salvage order is in effect from August 30, 2020 through October 1, 2020.
A valid fishing license is required to salvage fish.
Fish may be taken by any method, except by firearms, explosives, chemicals or electric current.
If you have questions, please contact the Magic Valley Regional Office at (208) 324-4359.