Utah, also known as the “Beehive State”, boasts a stunning natural beauty that leaves every visitor in awe.
Among its illustrious collection of vistas, it cradles some of the finest fishing lakes, teeming with a myriad of species and situated amidst awe-inspiring landscapes.
For the avid angler, Utah is a veritable Eden – an unparalleled blend of high-country trout fishing, warm water species, and everything in between.
Join us as we delve into the best fishing lakes in Utah, embarking on an unforgettable journey across Utah’s top ten fishing lakes.
Each lake is a unique treasure trove, where crystal clear waters dance under the sun’s golden rays, harboring beneath their shimmering surface a vibrant aquatic life just waiting to be discovered.
10 Best Fishing Lakes in Utah
1. Strawberry Reservoir
Strawberry Reservoir is one of the largest reservoirs in Utah, spanning approximately 17,164 acres (69.48 km²) at total capacity. It sits 7,602 feet (2,317 m) above sea level in Wasatch County, about 65 miles southeast of Salt Lake City.
The Strawberry River and several other minor streams feed the reservoir.
The reservoir is relatively shallow, with an average depth of around 65 feet, but it can reach up to 200 feet at its deepest point. These varying depths offer a diverse habitat for different types of fish and allow anglers to experiment with different fishing strategies.
Several marinas and facilities around the reservoir offer amenities like boat rentals, fishing gear, and bait. The main marina is the Strawberry Bay Marina, which features a full-service store, lodge, and restaurant.
Another popular choice is the Renegade Point, which offers fewer amenities but provides excellent access to some of the reservoir’s more secluded fishing spots.
Best fishing spots at Strawberry Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spots | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberry Bay | Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout | Proximity to the marina makes this a popular spot. |
| Renegade Point | Kokanee salmon, Cutthroat trout | Less crowded due to being a bit more remote. |
| The Ladders | Rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon | A unique fishing spot located on the south side of the reservoir that is very popular during ice fishing season. |
| Indian Creek Bay | Cutthroat trout | A quiet bay area with stunning scenery. |
| Mud Creek | Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout | Known for its cooler waters and an abundance of rainbow and cutthroat trout. |
| Soldier Creek | Cutthroat trout | A more remote area offering high chances of catching large cutthroat trout. |
Remember that while Strawberry Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing, it is also a managed fishery. All anglers must follow the rules and regulations set out by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, which include size, bag, and possession limits for different species.
2. Fish Lake
Fish Lake, located in south-central Utah, is a high alpine lake at approximately 8,843 feet (2,695 m).
The lake covers about 2,500 acres (10.1 km²) and has a maximum depth of 175 feet, with an average depth of about 85 feet. The size and depth of the lake make it an ideal habitat for several game fish species.
Marinas on Fish Lake
- Fish Lake Resorts: Offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant.
- Bowery Haven Resort: Provides boat rentals, a marina, and a small store for gear and bait.
- Doctor Creek Recreation Site: Offers campgrounds and a boat ramp.
- Mackinaw Campground: A quieter area with basic amenities and a boat ramp.
Best fishing spots on Fish Lake
| Best Fishing Spots | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Creeks | Rainbow Trout, Yellow Perch | Close to shore and easily accessible; good for shore fishing. |
| Fish Lake Resorts | Lake Trout (Mackinaw), Yellow Perch | Offers boat rentals for access to deeper waters. |
| Bowery Haven | Lake Trout (Mackinaw), Rainbow Trout | Good spot for boat fishing; rentals available. |
| Lakeside Marina | Rainbow Trout, Splake Trout | Good spot for boat fishing with access to deeper waters. |
| Doctor Creek Area | Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout | A popular spot for ice fishing in the winter. |
3. Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Flaming Gorge Reservoir, located in Wyoming and Utah, is a large and popular fishing destination. The reservoir covers approximately 42,020 acres (170 km²) at 6,040 feet (1,840 m).
The depth of the reservoir is quite significant, with a maximum depth of around 436 feet and an average depth of about 212 feet. The size and depth create an ideal environment for various fish species.
Marinas on Flaming Gorge Reservoir
- Lucerne Valley Marina: Offers boat rentals, fuel, fishing gear, and food.
- Cedar Springs Marina: Provides boat rentals, lodging, fuel, a restaurant, and a small store.
- Buckboard Marina: Features boat rentals, fuel, fishing gear, and basic amenities.
- Antelope Flat Campground: A quieter area with a boat ramp and basic amenities.
Best fishing spots on Flaming Gorge Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lucerne Valley Area | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout | Accessible from the marina, boat rentals are available for deeper waters. |
| Cedar Springs Area | Kokanee Salmon, Smallmouth Bass | Less crowded area, suitable for shore and boat fishing. |
| Buckboard Marina Area | Lake Trout (Mackinaw), Rainbow Trout | Great spot for boat fishing; rentals are available. |
| Antelope Flat Area | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout | Less crowded area, good for shore and boat fishing. |
| Sheep Creek Bay | Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout | Known for its deep-water fishing. |
4. Pineview Reservoir
Pineview Reservoir is nestled in the Ogden Valley of northern Utah, just a short distance from Salt Lake City. The reservoir is relatively small compared to some of Utah’s other bodies of water, spanning around 2,874 acres (11.63 km²).
At an elevation of about 4,900 feet (1,494 m), the reservoir has an average depth of approximately 44 feet, but it reaches a maximum depth of about 78 feet at its deepest point.
Marinas on Pineview Reservoir
- Port Ramp Marina: Offers boat rentals, a boat ramp, and restrooms.
- Cemetery Point Marina: Features a sandy beach, a boat ramp, and picnicking areas.
- Anderson Cove Campground: Provides campgrounds, a boat ramp, and a swimming beach.
- Middle Inlet: A quieter area with a boat ramp and picnic facilities.
best fishing spots on Pineview Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Accessible from the marina; boat rentals are available. | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Port Ramp Area | Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish | A popular spot for shore fishing, also offers boat access. |
| Cemetery Point | Largemouth Bass, Crappie | A popular spot for shore fishing also offers boat access. |
| Anderson Cove | Channel Catfish, Crappie | Known for its campgrounds and shore fishing. |
| Middle Inlet | Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass | Less crowded area, good for shore fishing. |
| The Narrows | Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish | Known for its deeper waters, accessible by boat. |
5. Bear Lake
Bear Lake, straddling the border between Idaho and Utah, is a large and beautiful natural lake. It spans approximately 70,000 acres (283 km²), making it the second-largest freshwater lake in Utah.
With an elevation of 5,924 feet (1,806 m) above sea level, Bear Lake reaches depths of up to 208 feet and maintains an average depth of around 94 feet.
marinas and facilities around Bear Lake
- Bear Lake State Park Marina: Offers boat rentals, fuel, a boat ramp, and other amenities.
- Rendezvous Beach: Features a boat ramp, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Bear Lake North RV Park & Campground: Provides full-service RV sites, tent camping, and boat ramp access.
- Epic Recreation Marina: Offers a variety of watercraft rentals.
best fishing spots at Bear Lake
| Best Fishing Spots | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bear Lake State Park Marina | Cutthroat Trout, Lake Trout | Convenient location with boat rentals for deeper waters. |
| North Beach | Whitefish, Cisco | A popular spot for shore fishing, Cisco spawn in this area. |
| Rendezvous Beach | Lake Trout, Cutthroat Trout | Offers both shore and boat fishing access. |
| Cisco Beach | Cisco, Cutthroat Trout | A less crowded area, suitable for boat fishing. |
| East Side | Lake Trout, Whitefish | A less crowded area, good for boat fishing. |
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6. Deer Creek Reservoir
Deer Creek Reservoir is located near Heber City in Wasatch County, Utah. The reservoir covers approximately 2,965 acres (12 km²) and has an average depth of about 65 feet, reaching a maximum depth of 137 feet.
At an elevation of about 5,423 feet (1,653 m), it provides a stunning backdrop for fishing enthusiasts.
Deer Creek Reservoir offers a variety of opportunities for different types of fishing, including trolling, shore fishing, and ice fishing in winter months. Its proximity to Heber Valley makes it a popular destination for other water-based recreational activities.
Marina’s on Deer Creek Reservoir
- Deer Creek Island Resort: Offers boat rentals, water sports equipment, and a marina.
- Sailboat Beach: Known for its boat ramp and picnicking areas.
- Wallsburg Bay: Provides a quieter fishing location with a boat ramp.
- Rainbow Bay: Features a boat ramp, beach, and picnic areas.
best fishing spots on Deer Creek Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deer Creek Island Resort | Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Popular for shore fishing, also offers boat access. |
| Sailboat Beach | Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Less crowded area, suitable for boat fishing. |
| Wallsburg Bay | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout | Popular for shore fishing, it also offers boat access. |
| Rainbow Bay | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout | A favorite for both shore and boat fishing. |
| Main Channel | Smallmouth Bass, Brown Trout | Known for its deeper waters, accessible by boat. |
7. Jordanelle Reservoir
Jordanelle Reservoir, situated in the scenic landscape near Park City, Utah, spans about 3,068 acres (12.42 km²). Sitting at an elevation of around 6,166 feet (1,879 m), the reservoir reaches a maximum depth of about 292 feet and maintains an average depth of around 80 feet.
The reservoir and its surroundings offer various recreational activities beyond fishing. These include camping, hiking, boating, swimming, picnicking in the summer, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
Its proximity to the Wasatch Mountains range also makes it a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
The Jordanelle Reservoir is divided into three distinct recreation areas:
- Hailstone Recreation Area: This is the central hub for activities on the reservoir’s west side and is the most developed area. It offers boat rentals, camping sites, picnic areas, and a general store. It’s also the most popular spot for water sports.
- Rock Cliff Recreation Area: Situated on the eastern side of the reservoir, this area has a quieter, more relaxed vibe. It’s popular for birdwatching, hiking, and camping. The Rock Cliff Nature Center offers interpretive exhibits about local wildlife and the environment. It’s also the place to go for non-motorized watercraft access.
- Ross Creek: This area provides access to quieter fishing spots and a boat ramp.
Marinas on Jordanelle Reservoir
- Hailstone Recreation Area: Offers boat rentals, fuel, a boat ramp, and a general store.
- Rock Cliff Recreation Area: Provides a nature center, campgrounds, and access to non-motorized watercraft.
- Ross Creek: Features a boat ramp and access to quieter fishing spots.
best fishing spots on Jordanelle Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hailstone Recreation Area | Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Less crowded area, suitable for boat fishing. |
| Rock Cliff Recreation Area | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout | Ideal for fly fishing; access for non-motorized watercraft. |
| Ross Creek | Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass | A popular spot for shore fishing. |
| Perimeter Area | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout | Known for its deeper waters, accessible by boat. |
| Keetley Point | Smallmouth Bass, Rainbow Trout | Popular spot for shore fishing. |
8. East Canyon Reservoir
Situated in the rugged mountains northeast of Salt Lake City, East Canyon Reservoir is an enticing destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The reservoir covers an area of approximately 684 acres (2.77 km²), providing ample space for water-based recreational activities.
The reservoir boasts an average depth of around 66 feet, plunging to a maximum depth of approximately 100 feet in certain areas. Nestled at an elevation of 5,700 feet (1,737 m), East Canyon Reservoir is encircled by a captivating landscape of mountainous terrain and vibrant wildlife.
East Canyon Reservoir is a thriving aquatic ecosystem, teeming with a variety of fish species. It’s renowned for its rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass populations.
Anglers can look forward to an engaging fishing experience whether they’re casting from the shore, a boat, or through the ice during the winter months. The reservoir’s diverse habitats, from shallow, rocky shores to deep, cooler waters, provide various environments where different fish species thrive.
Here are some of the key facilities available around East Canyon Reservoir
- East Canyon Resort: This well-equipped marina offers boat rentals, fishing gear, fuel, and other amenities. It’s an excellent starting point for your fishing adventure.
- Big Rock: This area is known for its boat ramp and picnicking spots. Anglers often gravitate to this location for its shore fishing opportunities, making it a great place for family outings.
- Dixie Creek: Featuring campgrounds and a boat ramp, this spot provides an idyllic setting for a fishing-focused camping trip.
Best Fishing Spots on East Canyon Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| East Canyon Resort | Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Offers a marina with boat rentals; the deeper waters near here are home to many fish. |
| Big Rock | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout | A favorite for shore fishing; also provides picnicking areas. |
| Dixie Creek | Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Known for good shore fishing spots and campgrounds. |
| Main Channel | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout | This deep-water area is ideal for boat fishing. |
9. Starvation Reservoir
Starvation Reservoir, located in Duchesne County, Utah, is a renowned destination for anglers due to its diverse fishery and remarkable natural beauty.
It spans an impressive area of around 3,495 acres (14.14 km²), with an average depth of about 54 feet and a maximum depth of roughly 154 feet. At around 5,712 feet (1,741 m), the reservoir’s landscape offers a majestic panorama of the surrounding area.
The reservoir is well-known for its abundance of rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, walleye, and smallmouth bass.
This diversity makes it a haven for novice and experienced anglers, as it allows them to catch different species of fish in the same body of water.
Boat, shore, and ice fishing during the winter months are popular here, with the reservoir’s various habitats catering to each method.
Facilities around Starvation Reservoir
- Starvation State Park: Provides boat rentals, campgrounds, picnic areas, and a marina.
- Beach Area: A popular spot for shore fishing and swimming.
- Indian Bay: Known for its boat ramp and quieter fishing spots.
Best Fishing Spots on Starvation Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Starvation State Park | Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass | A marina with boat rentals is available; the deeper waters here are home to many fish. |
| Beach Area | Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout | Ideal for shore fishing; also provides swimming opportunities. |
| Indian Bay | Walleye, Rainbow Trout | Known for its quieter fishing spots and boat access. |
| Rabbit Gulch | Cutthroat Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Popular spot for shore fishing. |
| Saleratus Bay | Walleye, Rainbow Trout | Great for boat fishing; known for its walleye population. |
10. Currant Creek Reservoir
Nestled within the majestic Uinta Mountains, Currant Creek Reservoir is a breathtaking and less-frequented destination for fishing in Utah.
Covering an area of around 300 acres (1.21 km²), the reservoir plunges to a maximum depth of nearly 60 feet and carries an average depth of about 30 feet. The reservoir sits at a high altitude of approximately 8,000 feet (2,438 m), offering splendid views of the surrounding wilderness.
Currant Creek Reservoir is known for its robust populations of rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and tiger trout. This diversity offers a thrilling fishing experience, whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned veteran.
The reservoir’s crystal-clear waters and diverse habitats facilitate various fishing methods, including boat, shore, and ice fishing during the colder months.
Several facilities are available around Currant Creek Reservoir
- Currant Creek Campground: Offers campgrounds, picnic areas, and a boat ramp.
- Main Boat Launch: Provides boat access and is a good starting point for fishing trips.
- Eastern Shoreline: Known for its quieter fishing spots and beautiful views.
Best Fishing Spots on Currant Creek Reservoir
| Best Fishing Spot | Species of Fish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Currant Creek Campground | Rainbow Trout, Tiger Trout | Provides campgrounds and boat ramp; deeper waters nearby are home to many fish. |
| Main Boat Launch | Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout | Ideal for boat fishing; known for its plentiful trout population. |
| Eastern Shoreline | Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout | A quieter area known for shore fishing and scenic views. |
| Southern Inlet | Tiger Trout, Cutthroat Trout | Notable for its calm waters, ideal for boat and shore fishing. |
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Fishing Regulations and Licensing in Utah
Utah requires a fishing license for everyone aged 12 and over. The state offers different types of permits, such as a basic fishing license, a combination license that includes hunting, and a short-term or 1-day fishing license.
There are also discounted rates for seniors, military personnel, and disabled individuals. Non-residents can also purchase a license but at a higher rate than residents. Fishing licenses can be purchased online or from a local authorized agent.
Regarding regulations, the UDWR sets rules for bag and possession limits, legal fishing methods, bait restrictions, and specific limitations for different water bodies. The state is divided into regions with different regulations and fishing seasons.
For example, one might encounter regulations specifying the type and size of fish that can be caught, when fishing is allowed, and the type of equipment that can be used. Protected species must always be released immediately back into the water.
Some waters in Utah are designated as Blue Ribbon Fisheries, indicating high-quality habitats with superior recreational fishing. These areas may have additional or more stringent regulations to ensure the ongoing health of these unique fisheries.
It’s also important to note that fishing regulations can be adjusted in real-time in response to changing environmental conditions, such as drought, flooding, or fish disease outbreaks. Therefore, anglers should always check the current proclamations and emergency changes before fishing.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the top lakes for trout fishing in Utah?
Utah is known for its abundant trout fishing opportunities. Rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout can all be found in various locations throughout the state. Strawberry Reservoir, Fish Lake, and Uinta Mountains are among the best places for trout fishing. Bear Lake and Logan River are popular destinations for anglers seeking trout in the northern part of the state. Fly fishing in the Provo River and Green River can yield excellent results during the summer months.
Which lakes in Utah have the best bass population?
If you’re targeting bass, Utah Lake, Sand Hollow Reservoir, and Pineview Reservoir are home to an impressive population of largemouth and smallmouth bass. Jordanelle Reservoir, Deer Creek Reservoir, and Flaming Gorge Reservoir also provide excellent bass fishing opportunities. For a more unique experience, try ice fishing for bass on the Great Salt Lake during winter.
Where can I find a map of fishing hotspots in Utah?
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources provides an interactive map showcasing various fishing hotspots in the state and information on the types of fish found in each location. This is a great resource for anglers planning a fishing trip to Utah.
What are the most popular fly fishing rivers in the state?
Utah’s pristine rivers serve as popular fly fishing destinations. The Provo River, Green River, Logan River, and Weber River are just a few examples. These rivers boast beautiful scenery and clear water and offer a variety of fish species. Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon also provide accessible fly fishing spots for those in the Salt Lake City area.
How do I obtain a Utah fishing license?
A fishing license can be obtained through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website, local retail stores, or by phone. Both resident and non-resident licenses are available, with options ranging from a single day to an annual pass.
What is the current Utah fishing report?
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources provides a regularly updated fishing report on its website to inform anglers of the latest conditions and fishing opportunities. This report covers various bodies of water throughout Utah, including lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams.
Cory Haasnoot
Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."