Best Places to Fish in Utah
The Definitive Guide
Looking for the best places to fish in Utah? Offering undoubtedly some of the best rivers, reservoirs, and lakes in the West.
From fly-fishing to spinning, all framed by natural stunning views, to regular competitions being held, challenging all anglers, Utah has it all. Be it that you’re out in the mountain wilderness with lakes and streams climbing 10,000 feet above sea level all the way to the famous Red Rock.
Let’s take a look at the top 7 best places to fish in Utah, what fish you will be catching at each, the stunning locations you will be surrounded by and of course, what bait, tackle and tricks the locals recommend to reel in the best catches.
Provo River (Provo)
Catch of the Day in One of the Best Places to Fish in Utah
- Brown Trout
- Common Carp
- Cutthroat Trout
- Mountain Whitefish
- Rainbow Trout.
Provo River is one of the most well-known fishing locations in Utah, which is no surprise as it’s brimming with fish.
Here you will enjoy over 15 miles of angling access, prolific hatches as well as breath-taking views of Mount Timpanogos. The middle and lower parts of the Provo River are notable for being home to plentiful amounts of Rainbows and Browns, with many measuring in over 18 inches.
This is the average that can be expected, as they gorge themselves on the midge larva and sow bugs all year round. Dry fly, nymph, and streamer will provide you with the best opportunities here.
If you’re nearer to the dam, then make sure you check out ‘Lunker Lane’ and ‘Rickety Bridge’ which average almost 3,000 fish per mile, with Brown Trouts consistently coming in at lengths of around 12 inches throughout this stretch.
Bunny Farm Meadows is an ideal area for those in search of Rainbows and feeders, with River Road providing plenty of trophy browns.
Local Tip: Trout are far more active in the morning. I would suggest trying size 18 to 22 flies. Out of hours, you will find fewer crowds, while still experiencing a good amount of bites on the line.
Green River (Flaming Gorge)
Catch of the Day in One of the Best Places to Fish in Utah
- Brown Trout
- Cutthroat Trout
- Mountain Whitefish
- Rainbow Trout.
Famous for holding the biggest trout per mile ratio in the whole of the US, there is no doubt you will be happy with your photo opportunities and catches along the Green River.
There are limited access points, only 3 in fact, below the dam; at Little Hole and Browns Park. The most common option is to use a drift boat (known locally as A Section) or wade along the streamside trail between Flaming Gorge Dam and Little Hole.
The real magic here though is the crystal clear, emerald waters, meaning you can make an informed decision regarding your choice of location along the bank.
Locals and Pro’s alike flock here to improve their technique, understand how the fish move, with steep-walled canyons reflecting in the water, making for perfect social media ready snaps.
Local tip: dry flies and top/bottom combinations are best suited here for catching Browns and Rainbows. Be aware there is no bait fishing along Green River.