Against the Odds: The Historic Recovery of the Apache Trout

Articles

Oct 2

The Apache trout made U.S. history this summer as the first trout or salmon species to be removed from the Endangered Species list, signaling a tremendous conservation success.

More than a century ago, when Arizona marked the western edge of the American frontier, Apache trout and thrived in over 700 miles of rivers and streams. These waters, though vast, are an often-overlooked trout habitat, particularly in a state better known for its deserts than its cold-water fisheries. Over the years, however, their numbers dwindled due to overfishing, habitat degradation, and the introduction of non-native species.

Listed as endangered in 1966 and later under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, the Apache trout once faced dire circumstances. Its habitat in Arizona's rugged White Mountains, where the fish are subjected to harsh, warm conditions, was thought to be beyond saving by some conservationists.

The Apache trout found refuge in the headwaters, and in 1955, the White Mountain Apache Tribe took action, closing off these crucial areas from fishing. This marked the beginning of a nearly 70-year effort to protect and rebuild populations of these amazing creatures in there native habitat. Collaboration between the Tribe, Trout Unlimited (TU), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies led to restoration projects aimed at reducing pressure from non-native trout and improving the waters. Thanks to these efforts, Apache trout populations have slowly but surly rebounded.

While delisting the Apache trout is a monumental achievement for the trout world, the work isn’t done yet. TU will continue restoration efforts to improve high water temperatures, increase spawning habitats, and open up fish passageways. With ongoing monitoring and projects supported by funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, conservationists are determined to ensure the long-term health of these rivers and the species that call them home.

Learn more about how partnerships, restoration projects, and dedicated volunteers made this success story possible by visiting Trout Unlimited’s official article here.