Why do some rivers and streams have Artificial fly only sections?

Why do some rivers and streams Artificial fly only sections?

I have learned that restrictions on the use of live bait are usually intended to prevent the

introduction of undesirable species into new waters.

There are many river and stream sections where the use or possession of live fish as bait is prohibited. In other waters the use of live fish, dead fish or fish parts may be prohibited.

There is some evidence that fish caught using live or organic baits are more likely to be deep hooked, and thereby less likely to survive on release, than those caught on artificial lures.

Bait and gear restrictions make angling more challenging, thereby, reducing the harvest while maintaining or improving fishing opportunities

Gear restrictions are most commonly used to provide unique fisheries on some waters or portions thereof. Examples include a specified portion of a stream which is designated for “fly fishing only” or a waterbody which is restricted to the use of “artificial lures only”.

What is an Artificial fly?

Artificial fly is an angling term closely associated with the sport of fly fishing although artificial flies may be used in other forms of angling. In general, artificial flies are the bait which fly fishers present to their target species of fish while fly fishing. Artificial flies are constructed by the practice of fly tying.

By Sherri Russell