Hard to believe, but there are more reasons to visit the Gunnison high country other than the magnificent fall colors that have turned the region into a photographer’s dream.

Kokanee salmon, a landlocked version of Pacific salmon, are making their annual fall run out of Blue Mesa Reservoir to Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery a few miles north of Almont. There, biologists with the Colorado Division of Wildlife spawn the salmon to raise future generations of the popular game fish. Because the fish die after spawning, the spawned-out salmon are given away to licensed anglers.

Roaring Judy hatchery plans to give away salmon on the final three Fridays of October, starting this week. Similar giveaways are scheduled at hatcheries in Durango and Hot Sulphur Springs.

• Information: Gunnison Division of Wildlife, 970-641-7060.