ORLEANS — One of Vermont’s premier wildlife watching opportunities is underway as steelhead rainbow trout begin their upstream migration, leaping up waterfalls on their way to spawning grounds.
The fish can be spotted making their spectacular jumps during warmer days in mid-to-late April and sometimes into early May.
“Many people may not realize we have opportunities to watch fish in Vermont just like there are for birds and mammals,” said Jud Kratzer, fisheries biologist for the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
The Willoughby River in Orleans is a prime viewing location, though a section from the Tarbox Hill Road Bridge to just above the natural falls is closed to fishing until June 1.
Outside that protected area, the migration creates excellent fishing opportunities for anglers when Vermont’s trout season opens April 12.
“Witnessing these trout migrate is a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining healthy and connected waters to allow fish to thrive,” Kratzer said. “While the annual migration occurs over several weeks, the best opportunities for seeing jumping fish only last for a few days when flows and water temperatures are just right.”
Wildlife officials are working to conserve Vermont’s waterways and surrounding habitats to ensure future generations can witness the natural phenomenon.
