The figure below shows the change over time of the lake trout condition rating at Blue Mesa Reservoir. The trout condition is markedly reduced in 2009 because overpopulation caused a depletion of important food sources. The condition in 2010 and 2011 shows significant increases because the sporting limit on trout under 38" long has been completely removed, so sportsman can keep every one they catch, and because the Division of Wildlife has also started an agressive culling operation, removing thousands of trout with nets. Continued improvement in condition and growth rates are expected as the current management approach brings the population under control in the coming years.
