Utah brings to mind red rock deserts and deep powder in the mountains. But it’s also loaded with Trout and some of the most interesting fisheries in the western US. The contrast of desert landscapes and cold water makes for a special experience. So, get your reading glasses out, as we take you through everything that makes Trout fishing in Utah so special.
The whole state is geared towards recreation – and fishing is no exception. I’ll try to break it down for you in this article. We’ll go through the why, what, how, and where, and I’ll also provide some personal tips based off my own experience. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!
Why Go Trout Fishing in Utah
For me, fishing in Utah is all about the contrast it provides. I love places where cold water meets desert landscapes. And where better than here? You can expect sunshine on most days, with high deserts and red rock canyons that are simply beautiful.
Utah’s big mountains are home to big Trout in numerous streams and lakes. Long trails and backcountry fisheries are waiting in rugged mountain ranges across the state. The state’s geographic location makes it a transition of sorts, wedged between the northern Rockies and Nevada high desert.
While access laws have been controversial for floating some rivers in Utah, the overall fishing opportunities are significant, and it’s a place worth visiting.
Top Trout Species in Utah
Utah has native Trout with some unique Cutthroat species that bridge into the Great Basin, Colorado River, and Yellowstone ecosystems. The state also stocks some crossbred species like the Tiger Trout, which can reach huge sizes. But the following are just my picks of the species that exist in wild and stocked populations throughout Utah.
Brown Trout
Tailwater fisheries in Utah (and a few freestones) are known for producing big Brown Trout. The species is prolific and is a favorite for many locals. You’ll find Browns in rivers and lakes, and they do very well in places where the water has slightly higher turbidity that isn’t suitable for Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout. While not native to Utah, Brown Trout are loved by all who fish here.
Rainbow Trout
Another common catch in Utah’s cold water fisheries is Rainbow Trout. In iconic places like the Green River, you’ll find eddies with hundreds of fish visibly feeding. Many are Rainbow Trout, which, like Browns, can reach large sizes. Tailwaters and cold lakes hold a large number of the Rainbows in the state but you’ll also find them in spring-fed fisheries and mountain streams.
Brook Trout
Don’t underestimate the Brook Trout in Utah. They don’t have a presence in many fisheries but in the few where they do swim, they grow to well above average. Some backcountry lakes are managed specifically for Brook Trout, and they offer world-class fishing for the species. With a little research and some hiking, you just might catch a big Brookie.
Cutthroat Trout
Cutthroats are far and away the most interesting subset of Trout species in Utah. The state is home to four unique strains with Colorado River and Yellowstone River Cutthroat Trout being the most notable. Both of these strains are found throughout other states with strongholds in Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana for the latter, and large numbers of Colorado River Cutthroats in Colorado to the east.
The strains that are more unique to Utah include the Bonneville and Bear River Cutthroat Trout. Both evolved in their respective ecosystems, with the Bonneville being a remnant species of ocean-connected waters in the Great Basin.
How to Go Trout Fishing in Utah
There’s no shortage of ways to catch Trout in the great state of Utah. Every river and lake is unique so carry the regulations book to know what is and isn’t allowed. In any case, here are some of the best ways to catch Trout in Utah:
- Fly Fishing. Some rivers in Utah are fly-only waters and the method is popular in general. Places like the Green River are pretty much made for anglers who love fooling Trout with a well-presented fly.
- Lures and Jigs. Casting spinners and spoons is perfect for lakes and rivers across the state. Lakes are especially prime for fishing with lures. When the fishing is tough, switch to a jig and use finesse or static techniques to catch more Trout.
- Trolling. In big reservoirs like Flaming Gorge and Strawberry, covering ground with a boat can really produce. Try trolling deep to target the giant Trout here. You might catch Lake Trout using this approach as well.
- Bait Fishing. Where bait is allowed, it’s hard to miss with a worm or salmon egg. Bait is especially great in stocked ponds across the state.
Where to Go Trout Fishing in Utah
Utah has a ton of fishing opportunities and many are specific to long river systems or mountain ranges. Rather than breaking things into a regional guide, I’ll reference the actual rivers and mountains where Trout are most common. There are plenty more to explore but the following covers a big swath of the best fishing in Utah.
Boulder and Uinta Mountains
If you’re looking for a big Brook Trout, both of these mountain ranges offer backcountry lakes to explore. They also have great fishing for Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout, but the Brook Trout fisheries are unique. Focus on the summer months and bring your hiking gear to make the most of the backcountry waters here.
Green River
If there’s one river you must visit in Utah, it’s the famous Green River. Located below Flaming Gorge Reservoir, the river is big, clear, and loaded with Trout. It has some of the densest Trout populations in the country and is a world-famous fishery.
Fremont River
You wouldn’t expect Trout to live in a landscape that’s full of desert rocks and silt, but this river remains cold and clean. Access is the biggest challenge, so many anglers hire a guide or pay a fee to fish through ranches and private lands. It’s worth the trip as the fishing for Brown Trout is fantastic here, and the scenery is unlike anywhere I’ve ever fished.
Strawberry Reservoir
Looking for a stunning lake with big Cutthroat Trout? Look no further than Strawberry Reservoir. The lake also offers Rainbow Trout and you might even catch a Kokanee Salmon. It’s popular with gear and fly anglers, and you can catch Trout from shore and boats. The Strawberry River also exits the lake, offering another option in the immediate area.
Provo and Weber Rivers
Both of these are amazing fisheries, but they’re very different from each other. The Weber meanders with swift water in late spring and early summer. Meanwhile, the Provo River is longer with several tailwater sections (below dams) that create extremely insect-rich environments.
The fish grow fast, and you can catch some incredible Brown and Rainbow Trout in the Provo River. Bring your best game because the fish are selective and difficult to fool. Most of the fishing here is done with small flies that imitate scuds, mayflies, and other small insects.
Trout Fishing Seasons in Utah
While much of Utah is a four-season environment, the fishing can effectively be split between summer and winter fisheries. Any fishery in the southern part of the state is a good candidate for October through April, while those in the north are often best April through October.
The tailwater fisheries are an exception as they flow at stable temperatures throughout the year. The Provo and Green Rivers will produce fish every month of the year, and some anglers brave the colder months to avoid crowds while enjoying quality fishing.
For anything in the backcountry mountain ranges, focus on summer when the snow and ice are gone. July through September are the best bet for these fisheries.
Utah Trout Fishing Regulations
Before I wrap up, I’ll just let you in on some information surrounding fishing within the law. First of all, you’ll need a Utah fishing license to cast your line for Trout here.
Other than that, regulations for Trout are either covered by state rules or are water-specific. For example, a creek not listed under the water-specific section of the rulebook will default to the statewide regulations. If you fish places like the Provo or Green Rivers, however, you’ll have to follow river-specific regulations.
Here are a few other common things to look out for when fishing for Trout in Utah:
- Artificial fly- and lure-only waters. Many Trout rivers are protected and anglers can only use flies or artificial lures in them. Single barbless hooks are also required in some places.
- Limits. Anglers can keep four Trout daily under the general limits in Utah. Keep in mind, though, that many waters are catch-and-release only.
- Seasons. Utah is liberal with seasons so you’ll find year-round opportunities. Ice fishing is even an option on lakes and reservoirs in the colder climates!
Utah Trout Fishing FAQs
Are you ready to tackle the wild waters of Utah?
There’s never a bad time to take a trip through Utah. It’s very road-trip friendly with great camping and parks. I really enjoy fishing Utah’s tailwaters in the shoulder seasons when other fisheries are blown out with runoff or experience late-season low flows. No matter when you visit, there are some amazing Trout waters to experience. It’s high time you got in on the action!
Are you an experienced Trout angler in Utah? We’d love to hear your tips and tricks for fishing in the state. Share away in the comments below!
