Utah is a great destination for fly fishing. With its diverse natural landscapes and abundant trout, it's no wonder this state is beloved by anglers worldwide. Utah's expansive landscape is catered to fly fishing with over 2,700 square miles of awe-inspiring water.
Some of the best places for fly fishing in Utah include:
- Beaver River
- Big Cottonwood Canyon Creek
- Blacksmith Fork River
- Boulder Mountain
- Currant Creek
- Deer Creek Reservoir
- Duchesne River
- East Canyon Reservoir
Utah offers some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the West, from crystal clear mountain streams to deep lake reservoirs. Keep reading for a guide to some of the top fly fishing spots in the state.
Best Fly Fishing locations in Utah
1. Bear River
Bearing the title of North America's longest river to not reach an ocean, the Bear River makes its way through Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah. It stretches up to 350 miles (560 km) long and serves as a critical water resource for agricultural valleys situated near both sides of the Great Salt Lake.
The Bear River plays a fundamental role in maintaining the Great Salt Lake's ecosystem and sustains both human society and nature up its course. It serves as an essential habitat for native fish, harboring rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout in Summit County; brown and rainbow trout, whitefish, carp, and suckers in Rich County
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Bear River, Utah:
2. Beaver River
Originating in the Tushar Mountains of Beaver County, close to the town of Beaver, and snaking for 110 miles across western Utah's terrain into Sevier Lake via the mighty Sevier River, lies The Beaver River.
This remarkable river is approximately 30 miles westward as a perennial stream through its namesake valley and then venturing northwards towards Escalante Desert.
For those looking to catch fish, the upper 12 miles of this river adjacent to Utah Highway 153 offer plenty of chances. Here you'll find brown and rainbow trout upwards of 14 inches long alongside native cutthroat trout in the adjacent creeks such as Merchant Creek, North Fork from Three Creeks, and Lake Stream.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Beaver River, Utah:
3. Big Cottonwood Canyon Creek
Big Cottonwood Creek is one of the mightiest rivers pouring into Salt Lake Valley from the Wasatch Mountains. It streams westward through Big Cottonwood Canyon for 18 miles (29 km) before flowing toward Salt Lake City until it reaches its final destination at Jordan River, about 5 miles (8.0 km) south of The Capital City.
If you are looking for prime spots to land yourself some small pan-sized trout, this stream offers plenty of great fishing prospects. Whether it's one of the several campgrounds or picnic areas that offer access to its waters, or a pullout on the canyon road which will get you close to some excellent locations, there is no shortage of options here! The slower-moving water near ski resorts provides ideal depths for deep pools where these fish congregate in abundance.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Big Cottonwood Canyon Creek, Utah:
4. Blacksmith Fork River
If you're up for an incredible fishing experience, the Black Smiths Forks River in Logan, UT, is your go-to spot! Filled with brown and cutthroat trout, this stream has something to offer everyone.
The journey starts with a drive north on I-15 from Salt Lake City until you hit Brigham City. Take a left onto Highway 91 and keep going east past Wellsville before turning right onto Main Street/State Road 101.
The State of Utah boasts a prestigious Class II fishing rating, making it an ideal spot for anglers. Various species can be found in its waters: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout (including the rare and endangered Bonneville cutthroat trout), brown trout, and whitefish.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Blacksmith Fork River, Utah:
- Kaufmann's Stimulators - Red - Size 12
- Zebra Midge Curved Silver - Size 18
- Hot Wing Caddis in Tan- Size 12
5. Boulder Mountain
Rising west of Capitol Reef National Park, Utah's Boulder Mountain towers over Wayne and Garfield Counties with a stunning combination of steep slopes and cliffs and 50,000 acres (200 km²) of rolling forested meadows.
Its summit is almost entirely flat, spanning around 70 square miles--a sight to behold! Popularly known by other names such as Bluebell Knoll and Boulder Top, this remarkable mountain forms half of the Aquarius Plateau in South Central Utah.
Standing as the tallest wooded plateau in North America, Boulder Mountain is a part of Utah's Dixie National Forest and offers remarkable fishing opportunities for its 400,000+ anglers. Its crystal-clear waters labeled "Blue Ribbon" provide an excellent chance to fish against gorgeous views rarely found elsewhere. Among the countless areas for fly fishing in the area, you'll find common species like:
- Brook trout
- Tiger trout
- Colorado River cutthroat
- Rainbow trout
- Splake
Recommended Fly Patterns for Boulder Mountain, Utah:
- Double Bunny Black and Olive - Size 6
- Parachute Humpy Ant - Size 16
- Elk Hair Caddis CDC in Tan- Size 16
6. Currant Creek
The Currant Creek Dam was built from 1974 to 1975 by the United States Bureau of Reclamation and is 164 feet (50 m) tall with a length stretching 1,600 feet across its crest. This impressive structure controls flooding for irrigation purposes as part of the Bonneville Unit, which is within the Central Utah Project's jurisdiction. Moreover, it is owned by the U.S. Bureau and managed locally through Central Utah Water Conservancy District.
Currant Creek Reservoir spans an impressive 300 acres (121 ha) with a capacity of 15,670 acre-feet (19,330,000 m3) and provides a stunning backdrop for those seeking outdoor recreation.
Uinta National Forest owns approximately 85% of the shoreline; it's here that visitors can safely enjoy fishing for rainbow trout or cutthroat trout around sweet fishing holes and beaver dams. Boating, camping, and hiking are also popular activities at this alpine reservoir!
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Currant Creek, Utah:
7. Deer Creek Reservoir
Located approximately 16 miles from Provo, Utah, the Deer Creek Dam and Reservoir hydroelectric facilities stand in Wasatch County. This zoned earth fill structure is a whopping 235 feet tall with an extensive crest length of 1,304 ft (397 m). The reservoir has become the main highlight for visitors visiting Deer Creek State Park.
Deer Creek Reservoir in Utah provides anglers with a wealth of opportunities. Here they may cast their lines for such fish varieties as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, and more.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Deer Creek Reservoir, Utah:
8. Duchesne River
Originating in the Uinta Mountains of Utah, the Duchesne River is a 115-mile-long waterway that winds through the Northeastern corner of this western United States state before joining with its source river - The Green. Covering an area of 3,790 square miles (9,800 km2), it is a vital resource to locals and wildlife within its watershed region.
The Duchesne River flows through Uintah and Duchesne counties, with its watersheds extending into Wasatch County. The West Fork is teeming with native Colorado River cutthroat trout and a multitude of wild brown trout.
For optimal results when fishing in this area, examine the banks for terrestrial insects such as cicadas, ants, and grasshoppers - they can be incredibly helpful guides.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Duchesne River, Utah:
9. East Canyon Reservoir
In the secluded mountains of northeastern Utah lies East Canyon Reservoir, a public haven packed with activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Completed in 1966, the East Canyon Dam stands an impressive 259 feet tall and 436 feet long.
It is composed of arch concrete with its base measuring 20 feet wide and crest 7 feet wide. This incredible structure was built to regulate flow on East Canyon Creek as part of the Weber Basin Project; it has been a dependable source ever since!
Not just that, it also boasts various species of fish: Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout, Smallmouth bass, Tiger trout, Wiper, Black crappie, and Brown trout - making it an ideal location for anglers everywhere.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the East Canyon Reservoir, Utah:
10. East Fork of the Sevier River
The East Fork of the Sevier, located near Bryce Canyon National Park, offers a variety of fishing experiences. The Kingston Canyon section below Otter Creek Reservoir is an exceptional tailwater for those looking to angle in regulated waters supported by irrigation use.
Southward from there lies Black Canyon, where artificial-only regulations are placed on a significant part of the stream due to its wild nature. To restore it and its surrounding environment back to natural conditions, conservation projects have been carried out over both sections.
With stunning views of the majestic ponderosa pines, striking red rock formations, and breathtaking Pink Cliffs, Tropic Reservoir is a haven for campers, boaters, canoeists, and fishermen alike. Every year it's restocked with rainbow trout and occasional brook trout - while brown trout also make their way into the reservoir from the East Fork Sevier River.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the East Fork of the Sevier River, Utah:
11. Fish Lake
Fish Lake is a high alpine lake (elevation approximately 8,848 ft or 2,700 m) located in the Fishlake/ Southern Wasatch Plateau region of south-central Utah, United States. It lies within and is the namesake of the Fishlake National Forest.
Fish Lake, six miles long and one mile wide, lies in a geologic structure known as a graben valley. It is bounded by the Mytoge Mountains on the southeast shore, which sharply rise about 1,000 feet (300 m) above the lake level. Along the northwest shore, the lake is bounded by Fish Lake Hightop Plateau (summit elevation 11,600 ft / 3,500 m).
The lake is stocked by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources fish hatchery in Glenwood. The region sees heavy snowfall in the winter, with snowfall occurring as late as June in any given year. For this reason, tourist activity is at its peak in the summer months.
Recommended Fly Patterns for Fish Lake, Utah:
12. Flaming Gorge
The Flaming Gorge Reservoir is an enormous body of water that stretches across southwest Wyoming and northeastern Utah. The majestic reservoir was created when construction on the Flaming Gorge Dam began in 1958, with completion occurring six years later.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a breathtaking lake located 10 miles southeast of Green River, Wyoming, and 14 mi southwest of Rock Springs. Its southern tip lies approximately 40 miles north of Vernal, Utah. Not only does the stunning body of water span across both Utah and Wyoming's border, but it also offers an array of different fish species, including:
- Lake trout
- Rainbow trout
- Kokanee salmon
- Catfish and
- Smallmouth bass
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Flaming Gorge, Utah:
13. Fremont River
Meandering southeast from its source in the Johnson Valley Reservoir on the Wasatch Plateau near Fish Lake, Utah's Fremont River spans a scenic 95-mile journey to join forces with Muddy Creek and form the Dirty Devil River - which is then carried onward by the Colorado River.
Every twist of this captivating river brings visitors closer to discovering Capitol Reef National Park, making it an alluring destination for outdoor adventurers. Featuring a 20-mile stretch of water, the Fremont River promises to be an ideal destination for anglers looking to catch trout.
The river is fed by both Sevenmile Creek from the north and Lake Creek from the southwest before it flows through Rabbit Valley & Caineville's irrigated agricultural lands in places like Fremont, Loa, Lyman Bicknell, Teasdale, and Torrey. Further downstream near Hanksville, you'll find plenty of browns & rainbow trout as well as brook trout, cutthroat tigers & splake.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Fremont River, Utah:
14. Green River
The vast and meandering Green River, the primary tributary of the Colorado River, is located in the West and spans across 730 miles (1,170 km) - traversing through Wyoming, Utah, and a 40-mile segment of western Colorado. The basin that encompasses it has become known as Green River Basin due to its size and ability to support many areas spread out over three states.
Starting from the Wind River Mountains in Wyoming down south until Utah, it then turns west towards Colorado before finally ending at Lake Powell along Arizona's border with Utah.
The Green River in Utah, with an average annual flow of 6,121 cubic feet per second (173.3 m3), presents a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts from around the globe. Its pristine emerald waters are populated by rainbow trout near Flaming Gorge Dam and browns further downstream. Cutthroats can also be found in this remarkable river.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Green River, Utah:
15. Huntington Creek
The Huntington Creek, a tributary of the San Rafael River in Emery County, Utah, is renowned for its impressive flow. Originating from Electric Lake on the Wasatch Plateau of Manti-La Sal National Forest and making its way to Castle Valley at the bottom, this creek has attracted many visitors who come to witness its magnificence over time.
Moreover, electricity generated from Electric lake also provides water supply to Huntington Power Plant located at the base of the canyon. The local creek is filled with various fish, making it an incredibly important fishery. From brown trout and cutthroat trout to tiger trout and Kokanee Salmon, not to mention Bonneville cutthroat trout and brook trout.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Huntington Creek, Utah:
16. Hyrum Reservoir
Located in the mountainous terrain of Cache County, Hyrum State Park is a scenic haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning 265 acres and surrounded by a 450-acre reservoir, this state park is an ideal destination for fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, hiking, and more! Located 4700 feet above sea level among rolling hills and lush forests, visitors flock to this breathtakingly beautiful Utah escape year after year.
Completed by the United States Bureau of Reclamation in April 1935, the dam constructing Hyrum Reservoir was erected after settlers had dug a 9-mile (14 km) canal from Little Bear River to Hyrum for irrigating their crops.
This pristine body of water is now populated with yellow perch, channel catfish, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill - making it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Recommended Fly Patterns for Hyrum Reservoir, Utah:
17. Joes Valley Reservoir
Joe's Valley Reservoir Campground is nestled at 7,000 feet in elevation in a picturesque mountain valley next to its namesake reservoir. Visitors are drawn to the area for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and off-road vehicle trails exploring.
Utah's Department of Wildlife Resources has stocked the 1,192-acre reservoir with Splake (hybrid between Brook and Lake Trout) and Muskie Tiger species; anglers have reported catches of trophy splake up to 16 pounds! Other common fishes found here include Cutthroat Trouts and Tiger Trouts - making this an ideal location for keen fishermen looking for a catch!
Recommended Fly Patterns for Joes Valley Reservoir, Utah:
18. Jordanelle Reservoir
Jordanelle Reservoir is a stunning body of water located in Wasatch County, Utah. Fed and drained by the Provo River, Jordanelle Dam provides an earthen dam that impounds this beauty.
The dam's construction entailed rerouting on U.S. Route 40 and 189 (now running concurrently over nearby mountains) and forcing some towns like Keetley, Hailstone, and Jordanelle to be submerged under its crystal blue waters!
Jordanelle Reservoir is renowned for exceptional smallmouth bass. Still, this area also houses other varieties, such as brown trout, rainbow trout, walleye, and yellow perch – all of which make it an ideal spot for fishing!
Recommended Fly Patterns for Jordanelle Reservoir, Utah:
19. Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a renowned tourist destination, hosting over two million visitors annually. Straddling the border between Utah and Arizona in the United States, Lake Powell is situated along the Colorado River, mainly across Garfield, Kane, and San Juan counties of southern Utah, with a fraction spilling over into Coconino County of northern Arizona.
The Hite Crossing Bridge serves as the northern boundary of the lake, and numerous fish species living here are included on the U.S. Endangered Species List. To help preserve their existence, various restoration efforts from local organizations have been put into place to conserve native species throughout the Colorado River Basin. You find a wide array of fish species in Lake Powell, including:
- Smallmouth bass
- Largemouth bass
- Crappie
- Sunfish
- Channel catfish
- Northern pike
- Walleye
- Common carp
- Razorback sucker
- Brown trout
Recommended Fly Patterns for Lake Powell, Utah:
- Zonker in Grizzly- Size 10
- Double Bunny Olive & White - Size 6
- Clouser Minnow - Size 6
20. Logan River
The Logan River, located in Utah and spanning 53.7 miles (86.4 km), is a tributary of the Little Bear River that has been undergoing an examination to determine if it meets standards for designation as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
Originating in the Bear River Mountains of Idaho, the Logan River meanders southward and then southwest through majestic Logan Canyon to enter Cache Valley near its prominent city - Logan. Upon arrival, it converges with Little Bear River at a location approximately five miles from where Little Bear meets up with the mighty Bear River.
At three locations along its path - first, second, and third gorge dams located within mouths of Logan Canyon – this river is impounded for fishing purposes; particularly useful for anglers who seek out Brook trout, Brownie Trout, Cutthroat Rainbow Trout or White Fish. North Utah's region around the scenic banks of The Logan is definitely worth discovering!
Recommended Fly Patterns for Logan River, Utah:
21. Lower Barker Reservoir
Lower Barker Reservoir, located near the North Creek Lakes region, is a prime destination for anglers. It's stocked by Utah's Department of Wildlife Resources with Brook Trout, and its vicinity includes Flat Lake, Yellow Lake Joe Lay Reservoir, Blue Lake Upper Barker Reservoir, and Dougherty Basin.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Lower Barker Reservoir, Utah:
22. Lower Fish Creek
Located in the foothills of Utah's Wasatch Mountains, Lower Fish Creek is a renowned Blue Ribbon Fishery that draws fishermen from all over to catch some of the most sought-after brown trout. The area also bustles with hunters eager to bag ducks or traverse through while elk hunting.
Anglers looking to cast a line in the river's lower reaches can access 5.5 miles via Utah's Department of Wildlife Resources' Lower Fish Creek Wildlife Management Area. Highway 6 near Colton Bridge at mile marker 218 is your gateway to this area - follow the road up and over an undulating ridge, eventually leading you down steep slopes blanketed by conifers 2 miles south of Scofield Reservoir.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Lower Fish Creek, Utah:
23. Middle Provo
Meandering ten miles through the spectacularly beautiful Heber Valley, the Middle Provo River teems with 3,000 fish per mile - making it one of America's greatest blue ribbon fisheries. After its comprehensive restoration over a decade ago, this renowned trout stream has become well-known for being among the premier freshwater spots in all 48 continental states!
Boasting many aquatic species and consistent river temperatures, the Middle Provo River is an ideal fishery all year round. Even during frigid winter days, you'll spot abundant bug activity and fish feeding on the surface! What truly makes this riverside unique is its accessibility; within ten miles, there are seven different public access points - making it easier to cast your line.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Middle Provo, Utah:
24. Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake, nestled in the majestic Uinta Mountains of Utah, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Offering a wide range of recreational activities and ample opportunities for fishing with three species of trout (rainbow, brook, tiger), Mirror Lake also features a Forest Service campground complete with picnic facilities and access to non-motorized watercraft via its own boat ramp.
Located adjacent to Mirror Lake Campground, the crystal-clear waters of Mirror Lake are brimming with some of the best catches in town! Inhabiting its depths, you'll find a wealth of aquatic life, including Tiger trout, Rainbow trout, Brook trout, Steelhead, and Arctic grayling.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Mirror Lake, Utah:
25. Ogden River
The Ogden River, located in Weber County, Utah, and running for a total of 35 miles (56 km), is composed of three forks - North Fork, Central Fork, and South Fork. All three streams originate from the Wasatch Range in Weber County before uniting together at Pineview Reservoir close to Huntsville.
Afterward, it winds its way southwest through Ogden Canyon and the city of Ogden itself until finally reaching West Haven-Marriott Slaterville, where it meets up with the Weber River.
Home to decades of geological history, the Ogden River weaves through 15 million years of rock formation in a magnificent 6-mile (9.7 km) long canyon—Ogden Canyon. Alongside an array of side canyons and pocket waters, this river is home to brown trout, cutthroat trout, and hatchery rainbow trout. With every turn around each stone lies an opportunity for a successful catch.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Ogden River, Utah:
26. Ostler Lake
In the Uinta Mountains of northeastern Utah, Ostler Lake is a pristine alpine lake with crystal clear waters and rushing streams. Its picturesque surroundings are perfect for fishing - boasting an abundance of trout, including cutthroat and rainbow varieties.
From its rocky shorelines, anglers can savor a breathtaking view of the lake's vast expanse and the surrounding alpine peaks. You can spend your days exploring its depths or wading along its edges to increase your chances of landing a prize-winning trout! With Ostler Lake, every cast counts. Ostler Lake boasts many fish species, including the Tiger trout, Cutthroat trout, and Brook trout.
Recommended Fly Patterns for Ostler Lake, Utah:
27. Pineview Reservoir
Pineview is a fishing haven for even the most experienced angler, with its unique combination of sport fish, like tough-fighting and trophy-sized tiger muskie. These hybrids are created by blending together northern pike and muskie; due to their strength and size, they offer an unforgettable experience.
The Utah state record tiger muskie was caught in Pineview - this 49" giant weighing 33 lbs 9 oz. Also, home to a plethora of smallmouth bass, crappie, perch, and bullhead catfish with the occasional trout thrown in, too, Pineview Reservoir is nestled quietly at the foot of majestic mountains.
The waters within this valley experience minimal winds, making them glassy calm - perfect for water skiing and wakeboarding! Moreover, the reservoir offers stunning sandy beaches and paved launch ramps for easy access. Modern campgrounds are located directly around its boundaries along Scenic Byway Hwy 39 - or right by South Fork Ogden River!
Recommended Fly Patterns for Pineview Reservoir, Utah:
28. Provo River
From the Uinta Mountains at Wall Lake to Utah Lake in Provo, Utah, the majestic 71-mile (114 km) Provo River offers stunning scenery for locals and tourists alike. Made up of both North Fork Provo River and South Fork Provo River, this treasured natural wonder is a must-see destination with its well-known Jordanelle Reservoir near Heber Valley's north end.
The Middle Provo boasts a spectacular self-sustaining brown trout fishery, where all the fish reproduce on their own without any stocking. Further downstream, you'll find Snake Creek and Midway Fish Hatchery to its right; Deer creek Reservoir also feeds into it. This vibrant river is home to an array of aquatic life - not only Brown Trout but also Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brook Trout in some parts!
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Provo River, Utah:
29. Right Fork Huntington Creek
Set in a picturesque area of Utah, Right Fork Cedar Creek is an ideal spot for fly fishermen. The upper portion (between Electric Lake Dam and Flood and Engineers Canyons) spans around 5 miles before the creek opens up to other angling methods. Whether you prefer casting with bait, spinning, or using flies on your rod - this 9.5-mile stretch from Huntington has something for everyone!
The Right Fork Huntington Creek is known for its abundance of wild rainbow trout, though you may also find smallmouth bass and channel catfish - with even an occasional brook or cutthroat. Its shallow waters make it the perfect spot for wading, while the riparian habitat provides a natural sanctuary for wildlife and vegetation alike.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Right Fork Huntington Creek, Utah:
30. Rockport Reservoir
Rockport Reservoir, or Wanship Reservoir as it is sometimes called, is situated along the Weber River in Rockport State Park of southwestern Summit County. Just south of the town of Waship lies this picturesque reservoir formed by a man-made structure known as Waship Dam.
Utah State Route 32 provides access to visitors looking to explore and enjoy all that Rockport Reservoir offers. A wide array of fish can be found in this lake, such as rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, cutthroat trout, brown trout, and tiger trout, to name a few.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Rockport Reservoir, Utah:
31. Sevier River
The Sevier River is an impressive 400-mile river that flows through southwestern Utah in the United States. It begins at Bryce Canyon National Park and weaves its way north between farming valleys and canyons situated on the west side of the Sevier Plateau before arriving in the evaporation basin known as Sevier Lake, located within the arid boundaries of the Sevier Desert. The waterway has been heavily used for irrigation throughout its course, which has resulted in a generally dry lake bed.
Anglers flock to the Sevier River for its renowned brown and rainbow trout fishing. The East Fork of the Sevier, which is north of Bryce Canyon, promises a great catch of browns, cutthroat trout, and rainbows alike. Angling enthusiasts also frequent Panguitch Creek below Panguitch Lake and Beaver River, close to Beaver, for their trips out on the water.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Sevier River, Utah:
32. Strawberry Reservoir
Boasting more than 1.5 million angling hours annually, Strawberry Reservoir is Utah's most beloved fishery and a part of the prestigious Blue Ribbon Fisheries program. The reservoir harbors luscious sterilized rainbow trout, formidable bear lake cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon, and crayfish.
Located 23 miles (37 km) from Heber on U.S. Route 40 in picturesque Strawberry Valley, which belongs to the Colorado River drainage basin, this remarkable reservoir was created to divert water into Utah Valley.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Strawberry Reservoir, Utah:
33. Strawberry River
The source of the Strawberry River is nestled in the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains of Utah's Uintah Basin. This spectacular waterway meanders south, empties into the majestic Strawberry Reservoir, and then flows through Soldier Creek Dam.
The first 8 miles (13 km) downstream from Soldier Creek are managed by BLM, making it one of Utah's most prosperous cutthroat trout fisheries and among its earliest quality fishing streams.
The Strawberry River is the perfect place to take advantage of its prime riparian habitat and immaculate fisheries. It's full of various fish, including Colorado River cutthroat trout, flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, and many more!
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Strawberry River, Utah:
34. Uinta Mountains North Slope
The Uinta Mountains North Slope, part of the Wasatch Range, is located in northeastern Utah and contains high-elevation lakes that provide anglers with a unique opportunity to fly fish. Nestled between the northern boundaries of the Uinta National Forest, these alpine lakes are fed by snowmelt and rainwater and can be accessed by car or on foot via the many trails that cut through the area.
The Uinta Mountains North Slope is home to various fish, including rainbow trout, whitefish, Yellowstone cutthroat trout, brook trout, brown trout, and lake trout. With its remote location and challenging terrain, the North Slope provides anglers with the perfect environment for a remote and adventurous fly fishing experience.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Uinta Mountains, Utah:
35. Utah Lake
Utah Lake is a picturesque body of freshwater located in Utah County, United States, at the heart of Utah Valley. It is encircled by the bustling Provo-Orem metropolitan area, and its sole river outlet, the Jordan River, leads to the Great Salt lake.
At least 25 foreign species were introduced to Utah Lake, yet only 13 of those introductions were successful. Carp, largemouth bass, white bass, black bullhead, channel catfish, and more can now be found in abundance there. The rare golden shiner and fathead minnow, too, have made their home at the lake's depths.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Utah Lake, Utah:
36. Weber River
The Weber River is an impressive 125 miles (201 km) long and gets its start in the northern region of Utah, United States. Its source lies within the Uinta Mountains, situated at the base of notable peaks such as Bald Mountain, Notch Mountain, and Mount Watson.
As it continues to flow northward towards the Great Salt Lake, it passes by Oakley before eventually filling Rockport Lake's reservoir and receiving two major tributaries - Silver Creek and Chalk Creek near Coalville. Home to the likes of rainbows, browns, cutthroats, whitefish, brook trout, and even graylings near its headwaters, the Weber serves as a haven for trout.
Recommended Fly Patterns for the Weber River, Utah:
What Gear Do I Need to Fly Fish in Utah?
The most important piece of gear for fly fishing in Utah is a good-quality rod and reel. Whether you're planning to fish in freshwater or saltwater, you'll need a lightweight rod with medium or fast action. You'll also want to consider the type of line that best suits your needs – either floating, sinking, or intermediate lines.
In addition to the rod and reel, you'll need a variety of fly patterns that match the types of fish you're targeting. You'll also need leaders, tippet material, weight-forward floating lines, strike indicators, nippers, and split shot weights.
Additional Facts about Fly Fishing in Utah
Fly fishing in Utah is a great way to enjoy the spectacular scenery and experience some of the best trout fishing in the United States. There are also plenty of opportunities to catch warm water species like bass, pike, crappie, and sunfish.
Utah is home to a number of expansive fisheries, including the Great Salt Lake and its thousands of acres of water. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources also stocks several rivers and streams throughout the state with native fish species.
Anglers should keep in mind that certain regulations apply when fishing in Utah. Be sure to obtain a valid state fishing license and familiarize yourself with the rules in the area you intend to fish.
Where Is the Best Place to Fly Fish In Utah?
The best place to fly fish in Utah depends on the type of fishing you're interested in. If you're looking for world-class trout fishing, then the Uinta Mountains North Slope is an excellent option. For warm water species like bass or pike, Utah Lake and the Weber River are both popular destinations.
Where Is the Best Trout Fishing In Utah?
For the best trout fishing in Utah, the Uinta Mountains North Slope is one of the top destinations. Here, anglers can find various species, including cutthroat, rainbow, brown, and lake trout. With its remote location and challenging terrain, the North Slope provides anglers with the perfect environment for a remote and challenging trout fishing experience.
The Provo River is another excellent spot for trout fishing in Utah. This river, which runs from the mountains to Utah Lake, is home to a wide variety of native and non-native species, including rainbows, browns, and cutthroats. The river also has several tributaries that offer anglers the chance to catch various species and an abundance of stocked rainbow trout.
Where Are the Biggest Trout In Utah?
Utah is renowned for its various rivers, and none are more impressive than the one that produces an abundance of massive brown trout, the Green River. Few places in Utah can guarantee such a consistent number of large browns as this river does, but occasionally, you may be lucky enough to spot an absolute giant. The Green River winds through the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and is teeming with browns, rainbows, cutthroats, and even lake trout.
Utah has some of the best fly fishing in the United States. From remote mountain streams to expansive lakes and rivers, anglers can find a variety of trout species as well as warm water species like bass, pike, and sunfish.
Whether you're looking for an overnight adventure or a quick day trip, there are plenty of opportunities for a successful fishing trip in Utah. Before you go, make sure to get your license and familiarize yourself with the regulations in the area.
