In a series of three articles written for the Federation of Fly Fishers’ magazine Fly Fisher, Rick Williams and co-authors explore the concept of establishing a national series of salmon, steelhead, and trout refuges as tools for conserving and protecting declining native fish populations and their habitats. A series of native fish refuges could conserve wild fish populations, their associated water and airsheds, and act as a buffer against unwarranted ESA petitions.

The first article examined the need for refuges for Pacific salmon and steelhead populations, while the second described refuge opportunities for native inland trout in western and eastern North America. The third article described the elements needed for a fish refuge, including biological, management and political aspects. The article concludes with a proposed action agenda for FFF.

Download: Fish Refuges Part I- Salmon

Download: Fish Refuges Part II - Trout

Download: Fish Refuges Part III - Refuges Explained