At the moment the entire northwest part of the country is experiencing unusually hot weather.  Day time temperatures are north of 100 degrees.  That's heat stroke range if you're out in the sun.  And that means water temperatures will rise during the late afternoon as well.  Water temperatures approaching seventy degrees can really stress fish. Nobody wants that.

Here are a few tips on how to protect the resource and protect yourself while still enjoying some good fishing during super hot weather.

1.  Observe hoot owl parameters.  Hoot owl parameters are often encouraged by state agencies.  Hoot owl restrictions mean fishing between daylight and 2:00 pm only.  Getting off the water by 2:00 pm is a great way to avoid stressing trout during hours of warmest water temperatures.

2.  Skip the grip and grin.  Sure, we all like to get a photo now and then.  But during times of extreme heat and warmer water temperatures it's best to play and release trout quickly, keep them submerged entirely in water, and skip the photo.

3.  Try hands free release.  In order to reduce stressing trout under hot weather conditions try using a catch and release tool or quickly release the hook without holding fish in your hands if possible.

4.  Hydrate!  Drink plenty of water if you're fishing during extreme heat.  Even if you're wading and don't feel hot throughout the day you are susceptible to heat stroke.  Consider adding a Gatorade or some other version of electrolytes to your daily liquid intake.

5.  Cover up.  Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and hats that protect you from the sun.  And re-apply sunscreen throughout the day.

6.  Take a break.  Instead of pounding away during fishing hours consider taking a more mellow approach to your fishing during extreme heat.  Take a break every couple hours.  Find some shade.  Relax.  The trout aren't going anywhere. 

During extreme heat it's possible to still enjoy a few hours of good fishing.  By keeping these six items in mind, you can protect the trout and yourself.  Good luck out there.