The province is taking the unusual step of closing several fishing spots to protect fish populations as temperatures soar.

Alberta Environment and Parks says the heat and low water levels are a threat to many species.

The water is low on the Elbow River at Sandy Beach park in southwest Calgary. (Mike Spenrath/CBC)

These areas are closed to all fishing until further notice:

Sheep River from headwaters to Highwood River.

Highwood River from headwaters to Bow River.

St. Mary River, downstream of the St. Mary Reservoir and tributaries.

Belly River, downstream of Secondary Road 800.

Bow River from Bearspaw Reservoir to the W.H.D. Weir.

Bow River from W.H.D Weir to the Carseland Weir.

Bow River from Carseland Weir to Highway 24 bridge.

Bow River from Highway 24 bridge downstream to Bassano Dam.

Elbow River from Glenmore Reservoir to the Bow River confluence.

"Angling in these areas presents a high risk to fish populations and may result in mortalities, even when using catch and release practices," the province said in a release.

All fisheries research licenses for these areas have also been temporarily suspended.

The province is also extending its July 30 advisory to fish with extra caution in these areas: