Threatened and Endangered Species
A number of fish species in the West have been listed or are candidates for listing under the 1973 federal Endangered Species Act (ESA).  The ESA was established to protect species from extinction.  Species are listed when population levels drop so low that they are at high risk of extinction.  Species already listed under the ESA as either "Threatened" or "Endangered" are protected from any form of take.  Protected fish should not be removed from the water and any caught must be released immediately unharmed.

Be Aware and Know the Difference
Threatened or endangered species may be encountered in waters throughout the West.  Accurate identification is critical.  While in the juvenile stage, a number of protected species appear very similar to non-protected fish.  Make certain that you know the difference and can distinguish each protected species - at each stage of growth - from other species with similar features.  Refer to regulations for the area where you are fishing.  All state fishing regulations provide illustrations of protected and regulated species and also include descriptions of distinguishing features.

Releasing Fish
Carefully and quickly release any protected species caught. Fish survival can be increased significantly by following these procedures:

• Leave the fish in the water while removing the hook.
• Avoid excessive and unnecessary handling.
• Avoid handling with dry hands.
• Avoid squeezing.
• Do not touch the gills or hold by the gill covers.
• Avoid holding the fish against rocks or other hard surfaces.
• If the hook can not be removed easily, cut the leader.  The hook will rust out rapidly.
• If the fish is exhausted, hold it in a swimming position in the water and move it back and forth gently until released.