State of Nevada Department of Wildlife Mason Valley Fish Hatchery released 500 Tiger Trout into the Rose Creek Reservoir last week. Courtesy photo.
More than 500 Tiger Trout recently stocked by the State of Nevada Department of Wildlife Mason Valley Fish Hatchery mark an important step toward opening the Rose Creek Reservoir once again to the public. John Peterson, HWAD Facilities Management Specialist, helped make these arrangements which included an assessment of the viability to bring back to life this important recreational resource in Mineral County. Rose Creek, which is located in the Mt. Grant area and part of the Hawthorne Army Depot, was known as a favorite fishing spot for Mineral County residents for years. Many children (who are now adults) cast their first fishing hook at Rose Creek and they were generally rewarded — with a fish.
The excitement of family fishing trips and the passing down of outdoor traditions at Rose Creek Reservoir will officially resume this May according to HWAD Commander Lt. Col. Gregory Gibbons. Prior to the official reopening, several items that still need to be completed include a volunteer effort by members of the Mineral County Sportsmen’s Association to clean up the area and the installation of Port-a-John’s. The cost of the portable facilities is being graciously covered by the Sportsmen’s Association. This action fits in nicely with the organization’s mission: “To maintain, benefit, and secure recreational use of our lands in Mineral County.”
George Gram, General Manager of SOC Nevada, LLC has been a part of the effort to reopen Rose Creek Reservoir and is assisting in getting the final details of the access and permit procedure in place. Gram indicated that access will be by a process of providing daily permits and access keys by the SOC Security Pass and ID office in Building 37 on the depot.
After the inaugural opening of Rose Creek fishing this year, the fishing season will be from May 1 until Sept. 30 and daily from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. It is anticipated that camping at the newly renovated Rose Creek cabin will be open to the public for weekend reservations beginning sometime this summer.
“The opening of this recreational area highlights how the community can benefit from the cooperative efforts of the Army, SOC and private citizens,” Gram said.
For information, contact the SOC Pass and ID office (after May 1) at 945-7101 or by email to marianina.macpherson.ctr@mail.mil for a copy of the access and fishing permit procedure.
In order for the recreational area to remain open to the public, it will be important that permitees adhere to the guidelines and prohibitions which include no alcohol, firearms or glass containers. The use of live bait is also strictly prohibited.
