Boise, Idaho (KMVT-TV) – Anglers take note: The hot weather isn’t the only reason to head to the water this week. Idaho Power has released approximately 20,000 catfish into Milner Reservoir on the Snake River near Burley.

This is the 20th year that the company has stocked the popular fishing spot. At nine to 12 inches, this year’s crop of channel catfish is a little larger than in previous years, providing a boon to anglers.

“The fish stocking program one way that Idaho Power balances its power supply operations with environmental stewardship and providing recreational opportunities in the communities we serve,” said Idaho Power biologist Stefanie Leth.

The fish released this week are pan-sized, but catfish previously planted in the reservoir could now weigh as much as 3 pounds and be 20 inches long or more.”

Fish were stocked at two locations in Milner Reservoir: 11,000 at the Lex Kunau Park boat ramp near the Highway 27 Bridge in Burley, and 9,000 at the North Freedom Park boat ramp near the Highway 30 Bridge in Heyburn.

There is boat access to the reservoir at the two stocking points, as well as via the Bureau of Land Management access near Milner Dam on the south side of the reservoir. There is also bank access to the reservoir, but anglers should note that it is limited because of private land.

The fish release is a requirement under the terms of the company’s federal license to operate its 57.5-megawatt hydroelectric generation facility at the 105-year-old Milner Dam. Idaho Power has operated the power plant since 1992. The company conducts its fish planting operations in accordance with all applicable Idaho Department of Fish and Game regulations.