Fishing

Cool streams descend from rugged snowcapped mountains, feeding shimmering lakes or pausing in reservoirs where trout reach trophy proportions. Throughout the year anglers gear up in pursuit of experiences on waters that measure up to their passion. In fact, Utah has more than 1,000 fishable lakes and numerous fishing streams.

Explore Fishing Destinations

Fishing Stories

Alpine Fishing Above the Red Rock Landscapes of Southern Utah

Written by Visit Utah

2 minute read

Sitting just outside of Capitol Reef National Park, this 11,000-foot peak offers views of the surrounding red canyons and desert-like region. In contrast, Boulder Mountain is heavily forested and home to more than 80 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. With an average rainfall multiple inches more than the lower regions, the area makes for some surprisingly good fishing.
An Old Favorite Fishing Hole at the Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Written by Dan Potts

6 minute read

Visit Utah columnist Dan Potts takes us to his "secret" fishing hole on Utah's Flaming Gorge Reservoir, one of the world's most diverse fisheries set among the brilliant red rock walls of Red Canyon in the easternmost corner of the state. Along the way, Dan takes us through some of his favorite landscapes on the drive to and from Salt Lake City.
Angling Secrets: How and Where to Catch Fish on Lake Powell

Written by Visit Utah

3 minute read

Read expect advice on when and where in Lake Powell to get the prized fish you're chasing.
Finding Solitude on the Provo River

Written by Matcha

Get expert advice on Provo River fishing, recreation and relaxation. Add the Provo River to your next Utah itinerary!
Fly Fishing the Uinta Mountains

Written by Matcha

The Uinta Mountains are one of Utah’s top fly fishing destinations. Learn where to go and how to land that trophy trout, then plan your own fly fishing getaway.
Panguitch Lake's Literal "Big Fish"

Written by Matcha

People have been traveling to fish at Panguitch Lake for a long time. Legend has it this popular high mountain fishery in Southern Utah was named by the Paiute people who once frequented the area and it translates to mean “big fish.”
The Green Less Traveled

Written by Matcha

5 minute read

The Green’s A section is without a doubt its most renowned and frequented water. However, those willing to put in a little effort can find fewer people and bigger fish downstream of Little Hole in the river’s B and C sections.
The Insider’s Guide to Fish Lake: A High Alpine Oasis in the Heart of the Central Utah

Written by Matcha

5 minute read

The largest natural mountain lake in Utah, Fish Lake sits at more than 8,800 feet of elevation, which makes for pleasant weather all summer long. Located near Richfield, Utah, the lake has everything you need for a relaxing summer getaway.

Planning Resources

You don’t need to be an expert or have expensive gear to enjoy fishing in Utah, but you do need a fishing license. Visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website for information about purchasing a license.

Fishing with bait is allowed at most Utah fisheries, but there are some special regulations to note in certain locations; make sure to check for special regulations on waters you plan to fish during a trip.

Fishing Reports

The Division of Wildlife Resources also maintains an interactive map showing the latest fishing report for all of Utah's fisheries. The map is filterable or you can zoom out and evaluate rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs near you or your vacation plans. See the DWR fishing report.

Native Trout Challenges

Catch and release each of the four Utah cutthroat trout subspecies in their native waters. The Utah Cutthroat Slam is a way to have an angling adventure and support our native trout legacy.

Pursue 18 species in 12 states (including three in Utah) as part of the Western Native Trout Challenge, a multi-state program hosted by the Western Native Trout Initiative.