Variety of Fish at Utah Ice Fishing Waters

You have warm clothes and waterproof boots. Your ice fishing equipment is ready to go. And you have a basic idea of how to locate fish and catch them through the ice.

So what’s standing between you and a great ice fishing experience this winter?

Maybe only one thing: knowing which waters in Utah to fish.

Fortunately, dozens of waters across Utah provide good ice fishing year after year. “In my opinion, Utah has some of the best ice fishing in the country,” says Drew Cushing, warm water sport fisheries coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources. Cushing has fished through the ice in states across the country.

“Utah provides a wider variety of fish to catch than any place I know of,” he says. “And many of these opportunities are probably close to your home.”

Cushing gave Utah County as an example. If you live in the county, you can fish for white bass at Utah Lake in the morning, and then turn around and head to Strawberry Reservoir to catch trophy-sized cutthroat trout in the afternoon; all in the same day!

Fishing reports
Visiting the DWR’s fishing report is one way to learn which type of fish are in which waters and where fishing is the best.

DWR biologists, officers and outreach personnel update the report every one to two weeks. You can read the report at www.wildlife.utah.gov/hotspots .

Other Internet sources—such as utahwildlife.net and bigfishtackle.com—are also good places to visit. And don’t forget your local fishing tackle shop or sporting goods store—people who work at these stores are often the first ones to know about good fishing in their areas.

Cushing says the following waters are producing great fishing for the following fish:

Larger Yellow Perch
Fish Lake, and Rockport Reservoir


Smaller, but more abundant Yellow Perch
Pineview, Echo, and Starvation reservoirs --“Catching perch at Pineview can be fairly easy,” Cushing says. “Just locate the spot on the bottom where the perch are, and then put your bait in front of the fish.”


Larger Bluegill
Pelican Lake


Smaller, but more abundant Bluegill
Mantua Reservoir


Largemouth Bass
Pelican Lake, and Mantua Reservoir


Rainbow, Cutthroat, Brown or Tiger Trout
Deer Creek Reservoir

Strawberry Reservoir--“Strawberry provides fantastic fishing for big trout, and lots of them,” Cushing says.

Birch Creek Reservoir--“This water provides good fishing for big tiger trout,” Cushing says.

Lake Trout
Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Fish Lake--“You have a good chance to catch some big fish at these waters,” he says.


Burbot
Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Crappie
Pineview Reservoir--Cushing says crappie can be tricky to catch. “They suspend at various depths,” he says, “so they can be tough to find. “But if you catch a crappie at a certain depth, keep fishing that depth,” he says, “and you should do well. Pineview has a good population of crappie.”


Kokanee Salmon
Causey Reservoir, and Porcupine Reservoir--Cushing says the best ice fishing for kokanee salmon happens at the two waters at the start of the ice fishing season. “When ice first forms on these waters,” he says, “salmon fishing can be fantastic for about two to three weeks.”


White Bass
Utah Lake--This is another water where the best fishing happens early in the ice fishing season. “Fishing for white bass is usually best from the time the ice forms until about mid January,” Cushing says. “The harbors at the lake are the best places to catch them through the ice.”

Some of the best fishing of the year
Cushing says the arrival of winter doesn’t mean fishing is over until the spring. “Winter can be the most fun, the most productive and the least expensive time of the year to fish,” he says. “New lakes, new opportunities and new species of fish are out there for you to enjoy. Get out there, and take advantage of it.”

Fishing Help Needed January 25 at Yuba Reservoir

The DWR has selected the 25th of Jan. to try and collect the remaining 37 fish (perch or pike) from Yuba necessary to complete the disease certification process. After testing, if these fish prove to be disease free we will be allowed to collect Northern Pike eggs later this spring to aid in the statewide Tiger Muskie Program. As you can see below (fishing info from Jeff Rasmussen Yuba Park Manager) fishing may be a little difficult but I figure if we can get enough people on the ice, especially many of you who really know how to fish, we should be able to catch the fish we need.


We will plan on arriving at the Painted Rocks boat ramp (east side of Yuba south of Levan) at 8:30 am on Tuesday Jan. 25th. Please come and go as you would like. I will have a cooler there to collect any fish caught to meet our quota. I will provide drinks, hot choc. and snacks for anyone who comes to help. I recommend people bring whatever fishing equipment you feel is needed (primarily fishing for perch). We will have a power auger provide by the Strawberry biologists for anyone to use but again feel free to bring whatever you would like. We will plan on fishing until 2-3pm or until we collect enough fish whichever comes first but again feel free to come and stay as long as you would like.

Again, we would love to have as many participate as possible so please pass this email/information on to any of your contacts or people you think might have an interest in this fun outing, we would love the help! Please contact me if you have any questions and it would help me get an idea of how many people will be coming. Thanks in advance for you help with the DWR Tiger Muskie Program! Look forward to seeing you on the ice:)

The ice thickness currently sits at 5-7 inches. There have been very few people out fishing. I talked to a guy this morning at Painted Rocks who caught four good sized Perch in 4 hours. Another group yesterday caught 1 perch near Oasis Campground in about 4 hours. There have been a few who have been skunked. If you are going to do it I think the sooner the better. Its usually best the first few weeks we have ice.

Mike Slater
Regional Aquatic Program Manager
Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
1115 N. Main
Springville, UT 84663
e-mail: michaelslater@utah.gov
801-491-5651

Cold Ice Means Hot Fishing

Photo Courtesy DWR

Winter is one of the best times to catch fish
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean it’s time to put your fishing gear away. In fact, if you put your gear away now, you might miss some of the best fishing of the year.

That’s right—those “crazy” people standing on the ice at waters across Utah aren’t so crazy after all. They know a layer of cold ice means hot fishing in the water beneath the ice.

“You can set your watch by it,” says Drew Cushing, warm water sport fisheries coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources. “When ice starts to form on a body of water, the fish under the ice get very active. And they’re eager to bite.”

And that eagerness to bite often continues through the winter.


A cheap and fun way to fish
Cushing says fishing on the ice provides anglers with several advantages:

If you’re willing to walk, you can reach any part of the reservoir you want to fish.

Cushing says ice is the great equalizer. “In the winter, you don’t need a boat or a float tube to reach certain parts of a reservoir,” he says. “If you have a rod and a reel, and you’re willing to walk, you can reach any part of the reservoir you want to fish.”

Catching fish in the winter doesn’t require the skill needed to catch fish during other times of the year. If you drop your bait in front of the fish, the fish will probably take it.

You don’t need a lot of expensive equipment. A short rod and reel; some line, hooks and wax worms or meal worms; and a digging bar or an ice auger are all you need to get started.

If you like to fish with lures, you may want to include a few ice flies and small jigs in your tackle box too.

Because you can dig two holes close together, ice fishing is a great way to double your fun by fishing with two poles. Just make sure you have a two-pole permit before you dip that second line in the water.

In addition to catching fish, you and those you’re fishing with can have fun visiting together. Just drill your holes close together and enjoy your visit. “Most ice anglers really look forward to the social side of ice fishing,” Cushing says.


That sounds great. But isn’t it hard to drill a hole through the ice?
One thing that surprises many first-time ice anglers is how easy it is to drill a hole through the ice.

Cushing says if you have a hand auger, you can drill through six to eight inches of ice in about a minute. “It’ll take a little longer if you use a digging bar,” he says, “but not much.”

Digging bars cost between $5 and $10. Manual ice augers cost about $50.


Great! But how can I have fun if I’m cold?
Temperatures can be cold during the ice-fishing season. But that doesn’t mean you have to be cold. You can stay warm simply by dressing for the conditions.

Cushing says one piece of equipment that anglers often forget is a pair of waterproof boots. As the day warms, slush can develop on top of the ice. “Having a pair of waterproof boots will keep your feet warm and dry,” he says.


Sounds good. But how do I know if the ice is safe to walk on?
Most anglers wait until the ice is at least 4 inches thick before walking on it.

Ice is usually thinnest near the shore. Before you walk out, Cushing says you should stay close to shore and dig or drill a test hole to see how thick the ice is. You may also want to dig or drill some additional holes as you walk out.

If you find that the ice in your test holes is at least four inches thick, you can be almost certain that the ice farther out is at least four inches thick, or thicker.

Two ice-related items that you may want to consider buying are ice cleats and ice spikes.

You can strap the ice cleats to the bottom of your boots. The cleats will give you better traction as you walk on the ice.

Ice spikes are two short pieces of metal. They’re often attached by a short cord that you can drape around the neck.

If you fall through the ice, you can pull yourself out by jabbing the spikes into the top of the ice near the edge of the hole.

Map Revealed for Flaming Gorge Burbot Bash

Provided is the map for the upcoming Burbot Bash. This map is to be used as a tool to improve angler odds in catching a tagged fish for the competition.

Two state wildlife agencies and three chambers of commerce have teamed up to fight a finned invader in Flaming Gorge Reservoir.


Catching a burbot at this year's Burbot Bash could net you a cash prize. Their goal is to put some severe fishing pressure on burbot. To reach that goal, they've enhanced an annual event called the Burbot Bash.

Cash prizes
On Jan. 22, the Burbot Bash will become a formal fishing derby offering up to $10,000 in cash prizes. The event will also change from an event held on a weekend to an event that includes a full week of fishing.

A burbot with a tag on it could be worth up to $5,000. The longest burbot caught is worth $1,500. This year's event will also include a youth derby with its own set of prizes.

Helping biologists gather data
The two wildlife agencies—the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD)—have been marking burbot with small tags. Their goal is to tag 500 fish throughout Flaming Gorge Reservoir in northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming. Because the 91-mile-long reservoir crosses into both states, the biologists have too, working together as a team to catch burbot using nets and other methods.

When biologists catch a burbot, they record where the fish was caught and its length and weight. The fish is then tagged and released where it was caught. Hopefully, some of these fish will be caught by anglers during the Burbot Bash.

Because each tag is unique, the biologists can track any changes in individual fish that are recaptured during the Burbot Bash or later during the biologists' own surveys. Recapture data supplies biologists with vital information about the structure of the burbot population, movements of the fish, how long burbot in the reservoir are living and how much each fish has grown since it was first caught.

If this aspect of the Burbot Bash continues, the agencies will tag more fish, which will allow them to acquire more years of additional data.

Removing burbot is the ultimate goal
The ultimate goal of the agencies, however, is to remove as many burbot as possible. To help reach that goal, three chambers of commerce—Flaming Gorge, Green River and Rock Springs—have joined with the wildlife agencies to enhance this year's Burbot Bash.

The chambers have raised funds and are providing prizes, lodging discounts and other incentives to help attract anglers to the event.
Burbot Bash
The derby kicks off at the Buckboard Marina on Jan. 22 with an array of demonstrations and discussions about how to catch burbot and what to do with them after you've caught them. This part of the event is free. If you want to participate in the quest for prizes, you'll have to register and pay a fee.

After the Jan. 22 opener, anglers have a week to catch burbot and bring them to a checking station. (You need to follow all of the fishing regulations, so make sure you're familiar with the fishing regulations for the state in which you're fishing and have the proper licenses and permits.)

The final check will take place at the Manila Rodeo Grounds on Jan. 29. After the final check in, the prizes will be awarded.

Fishing regulations, and more information
You can learn more about the Burbot Bash and obtain registration forms at several locations, including www.flaminggorgeresort.com/attractions.php  and http://www.daggettcounty.org/  .

Fishing regulations, guidebooks and licenses can be found and bought at many stores and shops in the Flaming Gorge area.

Regulations and licenses are also available at http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/  and http://www.gf.state.wy.us/  

Ice Fishing: Basic Equipment Equals Fish and Fun

Photo courtesy DWR

Catching fish through the ice doesn’t require a lot of fancy equipment. A short fishing rod and reel, a package of worms and a few hooks are about all you need.

In fact, if you just want to give ice fishing a try, you don’t even need an ice auger.

Drew Cushing, warm water sport fisheries coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources, says you’ll usually find plenty of predrilled holes on the ice fishing waters you visit. “If anglers drilled the holes just a day or two before,” he says, “they’ll have only an inch or two of ice in them. Just break that thin ice and you’re in business.”

If you want to drill your own holes, though, you’ll need an ice auger or a digging bar. A way to create a hole—and the most basic fishing equipment you can imagine—are all you need to catch lots of fish and have lots of fun.

Simple and affordable
In addition to warm clothes and waterproof boots, Cushing says the following gear is all you need to catch fish through the ice in the winter:

A short fishing rod and a small reel.
Fishing line.
A package of wax worms or meal worms, and some small hooks.

“Don’t use nightcrawlers,” Cushing says. “In the winter, use wax worms or meal worms. You can catch any species of fish through the ice using these worms. They’re the best baits to use in the winter.”

Cushing says wax worms and meal worms are easy to keep alive in the winter, and they’ll last longer on your hook.

If you like to fish with lures, buy some small ice flies or small jigs. Cushing says these flies and jigs come in a variety of colors.

“Make sure you buy a variety of colors,” Cushing says. “That way, you’ll have the color the fish want on any given day.”

A digging bar or an ice auger. A manual ice auger (one you turn by hand) costs about $50. You can pick up a digging bar for as little as $5 to $10.

Cushing says some anglers use gas-powered augers. But he says a gas-powered auger usually isn’t needed.

“If you have a hand auger,” he says, “you can drill through six to eight inches of ice in about a minute. Unless you’re trying to drill through two feet of ice, a gas-powered auger usually isn’t needed.”

Because fish bite softly in the winter, you may also want to buy attachments that will help you detect the subtle bites of the fish. Spring bobbers, tip-ups and various floats are among the items that will help you know you have a fish on the end of your line.

Videos and audio interview
More ice fishing basics are available in two videos produced by the DWR and in the first part of an audio interview Cushing recently did.

You can see the videos at www.youtube.com/UDWR . The audio interview is available at www.wildlife.utah.gov/dwr/multimedia/podcasts.html .

$10,000 in prizes at the Burbot Bash

Division of Wildlife Resources Photo

Vernal — Two state wildlife agencies and three chambers of commerce have teamed up to fight a finned invader in Flaming Gorge Reservoir.


Catching a burbot at this year's Burbot Bash could net you a cash prize. Their goal is to put some severe fishing pressure on burbot. To reach that goal, they've enhanced an annual event called the Burbot Bash.


Cash prizes
On Jan. 22, the Burbot Bash will become a formal fishing derby offering up to $10,000 in cash prizes. The event will also change from an event held on a weekend to an event that includes a full week of fishing.

A burbot with a tag on it could be worth up to $5,000. The longest burbot caught is worth $1,500.

This year's event will also include a youth derby with its own set of prizes.

Helping biologists gather data
The two wildlife agencies—the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD)—have been marking burbot with small tags. Their goal is to tag 500 fish throughout Flaming Gorge Reservoir in northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming. Because the 91-mile-long reservoir crosses into both states, the biologists have too, working together as a team to catch burbot using nets and other methods.

When biologists catch a burbot, they record where the fish was caught and its length and weight. The fish is then tagged and released where it was caught. Hopefully, some of these fish will be caught by anglers during the Burbot Bash.

Because each tag is unique, the biologists can track any changes in individual fish that are recaptured during the Burbot Bash or later during the biologists' own surveys. Recapture data supplies biologists with vital information about the structure of the burbot population, movements of the fish, how long burbot in the reservoir are living and how much each fish has grown since it was first caught.

If this aspect of the Burbot Bash continues, the agencies will tag more fish, which will allow them to acquire more years of additional data.


Removing burbot is the ultimate goal
The ultimate goal of the agencies, however, is to remove as many burbot as possible. To help reach that goal, three chambers of commerce—Flaming Gorge, Green River and Rock Springs—have joined with the wildlife agencies to enhance this year's Burbot Bash.

The chambers have raised funds and are providing prizes, lodging discounts and other incentives to help attract anglers to the event.


Burbot Bash
The derby kicks off at the Buckboard Marina on Jan. 22 with an array of demonstrations and discussions about how to catch burbot and what to do with them after you've caught them. This part of the event is free. If you want to participate in the quest for prizes, you'll have to register and pay a fee.

After the Jan. 22 opener, anglers have a week to catch burbot and bring them to a checking station. (You need to follow all of the fishing regulations, so make sure you're familiar with the fishing regulations for the state in which you're fishing and have the proper licenses and permits.)

The final check will take place at the Manila Rodeo Grounds on Jan. 29. After the final check in, the prizes will be awarded.


Fishing regulations, and more information
You can learn more about the Burbot Bash and obtain registration forms at several locations, including www.flaminggorgeresort.com/attractions.php  and http://www.daggettcounty.org/ .

Fishing regulations, guidebooks and licenses can be found and bought at many stores and shops in the Flaming Gorge area.

Regulations and licenses are also available at http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/  and http://www.gf.state.wy.us/ .

Southeastern Region Fishing Report

Electric Lake Photo by Randall Stilson

ABAJO MOUNTAINS: (March 30) Sergeant J. Shirley reports that Recapture Reservoir, Blanding #3 and #4 and Lloyds Lake were frozen during the weekend of March 27–28. However, the shoreline ice may recede enough for bank fishing during the upcoming week.

GIGLIOTTI POND: (April 08) Last week, this Helper area pond was stocked with retired brood trout from the Egan Hatchery. The trout averaged about a pound in size, although some two-pound fish were planted. These large rainbows were used at the hatchery for spawning purposes. Aquatics Program Manager Paul Birdsey described fishing as fair over the weekend. He recommends baits or spinners, such as Kastmasters. At Gigliotti Pond, the limit is two fish.

HUNTINGTON GAME FARM POND: (April 08) By mid-April, this pond at the DWR's Huntington Game Bird Farm will be stocked with 1,000 catchable-sized (8–10 inches) rainbow trout. You should find some good fishing after the pond is stocked.

HUNTINGTON NORTH RESERVOIR: (April 08) State Park Manager Dan Richards reports that the reservoir is now ice-free. Aquatics Program Manager Paul Birdsey encourages anglers to fish along the rocky face of the dam when the water temperature reaches 50 degrees or higher. At that time, largemouth bass will become active and may be taken on plastic baits. On April 3, Aquatics Technician Ryan Leonard fished with spinners, but he couldn't get a trout to bite. He concluded that the water was too cold.

HUNTINGTON RESERVOIR: (April 08) Lieutenant Carl Gramlich attempted to fish last weekend and found the ice too thick to drill.

JOES VALLEY RESERVOIR: (April 08) Fishing at Seely Creek Cove is extremely hazardous. Drowning is an imminent danger. Ice conditions elsewhere are unknown. Please observe ice-fishing safety precautions. At last report, anglers had success using a gold flasher above a chartreuse jighead tipped with chub meat. The limit at Joes Valley Reservoir is four trout. Only one may be over 18 inches.

LA SAL MOUNTAINS: (April 08) On April 4, Conservation Officer T.J. Robertson checked anglers at Kens Lake. Fishing was slow, despite the recent stocking of trout.

MILLSITE RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 08) The ice is weak, unstable and breaking up. The ice-fishing season is over. On March 29, State Park Manager Dan Richards reported open water around the inlet. The shoreline should thaw quickly. As the shoreline opens, you'll find good bank fishing.

SCOFIELD RESERVOIR: (April 08) The ice thickness varies from 18–24 inches, depending on your location. Due to recent cold weather, there hasn't been slush on the surface, but that could change quickly. Fishing has been good for smaller trout (around 12 inches), with a few ranging up to 18 inches. The most popular rig continues to be a jighead tipped with chub meat or a nightcrawler. Some anglers find improved success by placing an attractor 12–18 inches above the jig. Spoons and Kastmasters have been the most popular lures. Scofield has special regulations. The limit is a combined total of four fish. No more than two may be cutthroat or tiger trout under 15 inches, and no more than one may be a cutthroat or tiger trout over 22 inches. All cutthroat and tiger trout from 15–22 inches must be immediately released. Trout may not be filleted and the heads or tails removed in the field or in transit. Any trout with cutthroat markings is considered to be a cutthroat.

Central and Southeastern Utah Fishing Report

A tiger trout pulled through the ice at Scofield Reservoir.

Photo by Darek Elverud

Southeastern Region


JOES VALLEY RESERVOIR: (February 24) A party of Division biologists fished Joes Valley Reservoir over President's Day weekend. They fished in 20 to 90 feet of water, south of the dam beneath the rocky cliffs, and caught fish at all depths. They used jigs or spoons tipped with chub meat.

Two anglers brought along their portable sonar units and had particularly good luck, catching about 30 fish each. Most were splake in the 11- to 16-inch range, with a few 17-inch fish and one 18-inch tiger trout.

Fishing is fastest from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and again from 2:30 p.m. until 4 p.m.; although the bite is fairly consistent all day. Biologist Dan Keller recommends trying a chartreuse 1/8-ounce Road Runner jig tipped with chub meat. He suspended a silver attractor above the jighead, which seemed to draw in more fish.

Joes Valley Reservoir has special regulations. Please read the Utah Fishing Guidebook for more information.


SCOFIELD RESERVOIR: (February 24) Conservation Officer Ben Riley checked anglers over the Feb. 20–21 weekend. He reports good fishing at multiple locations across the reservoir. Ben recommended using white jigs tipped with chub meat.

Sergeant J. Shirley and his officers checked anglers over the holiday weekend and reported very good fishing across the entire reservoir. Anglers had success with a variety of different baits, including nightcrawlers, wax worms, jigs and PowerBait.

Shirley mentioned that a number of anglers did not comply with the special regulations. He cautions anglers to make sure they can identify the species of fish they catch and to become familiar with the regulations. Please read the Utah Fishing Guidebook for all of the details about Scofield Reservoir's special regulations.


Central Region


BURRASTON PONDS: (February 24) Anglers report slow to fair fishing. There are few anglers on the pond. You can open water fishing. Most anglers are using traditional baits and lures.


CANYON VIEW PARK POND: (February 24) Wait until spring to fish here.


DEER CREEK RESERVOIR: (February 24) Anglers report fair to good success this week, but the edges of the ice can get soft. Bring a plank to get on and off the ice, and make sure you check the ice thickness carefully. Try small, bait-tipped jigs for perch or bait-tipped traditional baits or jigs for trout. Please use caution.


GRANTSVILLE RESERVOIR: (February 24) Fish from shore only. The ice is not safe. Officer Troy Hammond reports that the reservoir has about 50 yards of open water around the perimeter. A few old-timers have caught nice browns but, of course, they won't say how.


HIGHLAND GLEN PARK: (February 24) There is open water and slow success.


JORDANELLE RESERVOIR: (February 24) Some anglers are braving the ice and having some success for perch and trout. However, there is a lot of open water on the reservoir and the edges can be weak. It's probably best to wait until ice off.


KIDNEY POND: (February 24) There is open water and slow success.


MIDAS POND: (February 24) There is open water and slow success.


MILL HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (February 24) According to the media, Highway 35 may be closed or unplowed this year. If you can access the reservoir, use caution and check the ice carefully. There are no new reports this week.


NINE MILE RESERVOIR: (February 24) Anglers report good success through the ice. Try using white jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or jig woolly bugger flies. The fish are usually good sized, 14 inches and up. Ice is about a foot thick.


PAYSON LAKE: (February 19) The canyon gate is closed for the season.


PROVO RIVER, LOWER: (February 24) Anglers report success with small (size 20 or smaller) midge imitations. Sow bugs should also be effective this time of year.


PROVO RIVER, MIDDLE: (February 24) Midges (size 20 or smaller), sow bugs and small, dark nymphs are working well. There are special regulations on much of the Provo River, so please read the Utah Fishing Guidebook.


SALEM POND: (February 24) Officer Shawn Bagley reports fair success with traditional baits.


SETTLEMENT CANYON RESERVOIR: (February 24) Officer Troy Hammond reports that the reservoir is 2/3 clear of ice. The remaining ice is not safe. Hammond estimates that the ice will be gone by next week, if not sooner. One angler, who caught two nice fish, said fishing is slow but the weather is perfect.


SPANISH OAKS RESERVOIR: (February 19) The gate to the reservoir is closed until March.


SPRING LAKE: (February 24) Officer Shawn Bagley reports that the ice is unsafe. Anglers report some success for trout in the open water.


STRAWBERRY RESERVOIR: (February 24) There is less slush this week and, according to angler Chuck, more than 20 inches of ice. There are still pockets of slush, however, so it's best not to take an ATV and to wear tall, waterproof boots. Several parking areas have been plowed, but you can't drive a vehicle past the Strawberry Marina turnoff. Bait tipped jigs are working well. If you're having slow success, try moving locations. There are special regulations for Strawberry, so please read the Utah Fishing Guidebook.


THISTLE CREEK: (February 24) Both Diamond Fork River and Thistle Creek rivers look great, but we have only seen one active angler. Expect fair success with flies or worms. There is still some snow along these waters, but there are several parking areas available. Bait is allowed on both waters but most anglers prefer flies.


TIBBLE FORK RESERVOIR: (February 24) Stay off the ice. The brown trout spawn is over and fishing success has slowed.


UTAH LAKE: (February 24) Anglers are reporting open water in some areas, so please stay off the ice. The water level limits Spanish Fork River fishing near the mouth. Officer Shawn Bagley wants to remind you that the tributaries close on March 1.


VERNON RESERVOIR: (February 24) Officer Troy Hammond reports that the reservoir is still iced over, but ice depth is uncertain. It could still be substantial enough to fish, but use extreme caution if you decide to venture out.


VIVIAN PARK POND: (February 24) Stay off the remaining ice. There are a few fish in the open water.


WILLOW POND: (February 24) Officer Roach reports that the pond was stocked last week. Anglers can expect fair fishing. The other Salt Lake County ponds are open and fishable, except Riverton pond which is closed until April 1. The Jordan River is running very high and is not fishable.


YUBA RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (February 24) The edges are weak in warm weather. You should never go out on the ice alone. Visit www.stateparks.utah.gov for current conditions.

Southern Utah Fishing Report

Photo Courtesy Big Fish Tackle

BAKER RESERVOIR: (January 07) You'll find thin ice with some open water near the inlet. The ice often thaws, and fishing can be productive for rainbows and a few browns.

BARKER RESERVOIRS (NORTH CREEK LAKES): (January 21) All of the lakes, except for Barker and Lower Barker reservoirs, are closed to fishing until April. Access is limited by snow, so there is very little pressure.

BEAVER MOUNTAIN LAKES: (January 21) Most lakes are accessible by snowmobile. Fishing pressure is light throughout the winter, with Little Reservoir and Kents Lake receiving the most pressure.

BEAVER RIVER, LOWER: (January 21) Ice is covering much of the stream, which is making fishing difficult.

BEAVER RIVER, UPPER: (January 21) Anchor ice is making fishing difficult.

BOULDER MOUNTAIN: (January 21) Most of the Boulder Mountain lakes are closed to fishing until April 17. Check the Utah Fishing Guidebook to see which lakes are open year-round. All of the lakes are now iced over and access is limited to snowmobile. Anglers report good fishing at Oak Creek Reservoir.

CLEAR CREEK: (January 21) Wild rainbow and brown trout are abundant. Although trout get sluggish during the winter, stream fishing can be very productive during the colder months. Successful winter tackle includes nymphs, spinners and natural baits.

CORN CREEK: (January 21) Wild brown trout are abundant. Although trout get sluggish during the winter, stream fishing can be very productive during the colder months. Successful winter tackle includes nymphs, spinners and natural baits.

DUCK CREEK POND / ASPEN MIRROR LAKE: (January 07) Closed January 1 to April 17.

EAST FORK SEVIER RIVER IN KINGSTON CANYON: (January 21) Much of the river is iced-over, which is making fishing difficult.

EAST FORK SEVIER RIVER, BLACK CANYON: (January 21) The river in Black Canyon generally does not freeze. Although trout get sluggish during the winter, stream fishing can be very productive throughout the colder months. Successful winter tackle includes nymphs, spinners and streamers.

ENTERPRISE RESERVOIR, UPPER: (January 21) Access is good, but the parking area is not plowed. The ice is 6 to eight inches thick. The water level is low and a little murky. Anglers report good success for small rainbows with jigs and ice flies tipped with mealworms or PowerBait.

FISH LAKE: (January 21) The ice is 12 inches thick. Access is good for snowmobiles and ATVs at the marinas. There is heavy fishing pressure on the weekends. Fishing is not as hot as it was two weeks ago, but there is still good fishing for splake, perch and rainbows. Anglers are catching a lot of small trout and perch in 15 to 20 feet of water. Larger splake have moved to 30 feet, so try fishing on the bottom or suspended 20 to 30 feet down over deeper water. You'll find the best fishing in areas that have received less pressure. For rainbows or perch, try light-colored jigs or spoons tipped with mealworms, wax worms, or nightcrawlers. For splake, tip your jigs with perch meat. (Perch will also hit perch meat). If you're fishing for splake, you could catch a few small lake trout. For large lake trout, fish in deeper water and pair larger jigs and bait with a lot of patience.

FORSYTH RESERVOIR: (January 21) Fishing is generally slow, with the best success early in the morning. White jigs tipped with chub, sucker, or minnows can produce a few nice splake.

FREMONT RIVER: (January 21) The road from Mill Meadow to Fish Lake is not plowed. Winter fishing is fair to good in the Bicknell Bottoms.

KOLOB RESERVOIR: (January 21) Access is limited to snowmobile. There is little ice fishing pressure because of the poor access. Ice fishing is good, if you can get to the reservoir

LOWER BOWNS RESERVOIR: (January 21) Access is limited to snowmobile or possibly ATV.

MAMMOTH CREEK: (January 21) Unlike other streams in the area, Mammoth Creek generally doesn't ice over. Although trout get sluggish during the winter, stream fishing can be very productive throughout the colder months. Successful winter tackle includes nymphs, spinners and streamers.

MILL MEADOW RESERVOIR: (January 21) Perch fishing is good to excellent. Try small jigs tipped with night crawlers, mealworms, or perch meat. Most of the perch are pretty small, but anglers are catching enough perch to fill a limit of fish over eight inches. Anglers are encouraged to harvest perch in order to help the population stay in balance with available food. Remember that the perch limit has been increased to 50. Anglers are also catching a few brown trout and splake.

MINERSVILLE RESERVOIR: (January 21) The ice is about 10 to 12 inches thick, however, the water level is rising so the edges are slushy. Fishing is generally slow to fair, with most anglers catching 10- to 12-inch rainbows. Although anglers are catching a few larger fish, no one has reported catching a fish over 22 inches. Most anglers are using jigs. Remember that the use or possession of bait, including scented lures, is prohibited at Minersville Reservoir.

NAVAJO LAKE: (January 21) There is plenty of ice. Access is limited to snowmobiles. Anglers report good fishing for splake. Try light-colored jigs or flashy spoons tipped with cutbait (like chub or sucker) or half a minnow.

NEWCASTLE RESERVOIR: (January 21) Access is good, the ice is safe and there is little pressure. Anglers report fair fishing for small rainbows.

OTTER CREEK RESERVOIR STATE PARK: (January 21) The ice is 13 to 15 inches thick with some soft edges because of the recent warm weather. Fishing is generally spotty. Anglers are catching decent-sized, fat and healthy fish. Try fishing with nightcrawlers in a depth of 5 to 10 feet.

PANGUITCH LAKE: (January 21) There is a lot of pressure on the weekends. Fishing ranges from slow to good. Anglers that can get away from the crowds are having the best success. Try fishing during the week. The best fishing is usually first thing in the morning. Rainbows will generally hit small jigs and ice flies tipped with mealworms, wax worms, nightcrawlers or PowerBait. For cutthroat, try tipping larger jigs or spoons with minnows or cutbait. Panguitch Lake has special regulations. Read the Utah Fishing Guidebook for more information.

PARAGONAH RESERVOIR: (January 21) Some trucks make it to the lake during the winter, but most get stuck along the way. Use a snowmobile, or an ATV if the snow isn't too deep. The ice fishing is good, if you can get there.

PINE LAKE: (January 21) The lake should have safe ice, but access is limited by snow. The ice fishing is good, if you can get there.

QUAIL LAKE: (January 21) The water temperature is in the low- to mid-40s. Trout fishing has slowed down. Bass fishing usually slows down during the colder months, though you can still catch fish. Make sure you fish during the warmest part of the day. A very slow retrieve is key. Dead-sticking is often the best technique. Many bass anglers prefer drop-shot rigs in the winter. Don't be afraid to use larger plastics or even hardware.

SAND HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (January 21) Water temperature is in the low- to mid-40s. Bass fishing slows down during the colder months, although you can still catch fish. Make sure you fish during the warmest part of the day. A very slow retrieve is key. Dead-sticking is often the best technique. Many bass anglers prefer drop-shot rigs in the winter. Don't be afraid to use larger plastics or even hardware.

SEVIER RIVER IN MARYSVALE CANYON: (January 21) Much of the river is iced-over, which is making fishing difficult.

THOUSAND LAKE MOUNTAIN: (January 21) Access is limited; the best access is from I-70. Ice fishing can be good to excellent in Solomon Basin.

WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY FISHERIES: (January 21) Fishing is fair to good. Beginning Jan. 1, 2010, all Utah community fisheries have a new limit of 2 fish in any combination of species. (For example: two trout, or one trout and 1 bluegill, or 2 bluegill, etc.) The Division stocks rainbow trout every three weeks in all of the ponds.

WIDE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (December 23) The reservoir has been drained so that the dam can be rebuilt. It will be filled again in 2011.

YANKEE MEADOW RESERVOIR: (January 21) Access is limited to snowmobile. A few trucks have gotten stuck trying to get to the lake. Ice fishing is good, if you can get there.

Utah's Central Region Fishing Forecast

Photo Courtesy Big Fish Tackle

BURRASTON PONDS: (January 14) Most anglers report fair success with traditional baits and lures.

CANYON VIEW PARK POND: (January 14) Wait until spring to fish here.

DEER CREEK RESERVOIR: (January 14) I saw a few ice anglers this afternoon (Jan. 14 at 4 p.m.), but I also saw water along the edges in some areas. The ice was thin in other locations, so please use caution if you venture out. Ice anglers have reported fair success when using jigs tipped with a worm or wax worm. PowerBait is popular as well. Anglers have caught only an occasional perch. Most of their fish have been 12- to 15-inch rainbow trout.

GRANTSVILLE RESERVOIR: (January 14) The most recent report indicated about five inches of ice, but ice can change quickly. Anglers have had fair success with bait-tipped jigs, PowerBait and worms.

HIGHLAND GLEN PARK: (January 14) There were no reports from anglers this week. Stay off any ice.

JORDANELLE RESERVOIR: (January 14) Anglers report about seven to eight inches of ice on the Rock Cliff arm and thin ice near the Hailstone area. Please check ice thickness carefully before venturing out. Fishing is slow to fair.

KIDNEY POND: (January 14) The pond is closed until spring.

MIDAS POND: (January 14) The pond is closed until spring.

MILL HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (January 14) Hwy. 35 may be closed or unplowed this year, according to media reports. If you can access the reservoir, please use caution and check the ice. There were no reports from anglers this week.

PAYSON LAKE: (January 14) The gate to the canyon is closed for the season.

PROVO RIVER, LOWER: (January 14) Midge imitations are still working. Sow bugs should also be effective this time of year.

PROVO RIVER, MIDDLE: (January 14) Midges, sow bugs and small, dark nymphs are working well. There are special regulations on much of the Provo River — please read the Utah Fishing Guidebook.

SALEM POND: (January 14) Anglers report fair success with traditional baits.

SETTLEMENT CANYON RESERVOIR: (January 14) One angler reports six to seven inches of ice and good success by jigging. Please check the ice before venturing out — conditions can change quickly.

SPANISH OAKS RESERVOIR: (January 14) The gate to the reservoir is closed for the season.

SPRING LAKE: (January 14) Officer Bagley saw some ice anglers at the lake last week, but we haven't received any recent reports. Please send a report if decide to fish at the lake. Be very careful if you're venturing onto the ice.

STRAWBERRY RESERVOIR: (January 14) Anglers Alan and Justin report good fishing success this morning (Jan. 14) and no real problems with the ice. (However, always check the ice before venturing out.) Bait-tipped jigs work well. If fishing is slow, try a new spot. The main regulations for Strawberry are as follows: The limit is four trout or kokanee salmon in the aggregate. No more than two may be cutthroat trout under 15 inches, and no more than one may be a cutthroat trout over 22 inches. All cutthroat trout from 15 to 22 inches must be immediately released. Trout or salmon may not be filleted, and the heads or tails may not be removed in the field or in transit. Go to wildlife.utah.gov/strawberry/pdf/strawberry_brochure.pdf to see photos and illustrations of the fish at Strawberry. These will help you identify the different fish species.

TIBBLE FORK RESERVOIR: (January 14) Stay off the ice. The brown trout spawn has ended, and fishing success has slowed.

UTAH LAKE: (January 14) Anglers report slow to fair success over the last few days. There are some open water patches, especially close to the shoreline. Please use caution — someone fell through the ice last week. Small action lures tipped with bait are the most effective way to fish for white bass.

VERNON RESERVOIR: (January 14) Anglers are ice fishing and report about seven to eight inches of ice. The road to the reservoir is snowy and slippery.

VIVIAN PARK POND: (January 14) Stay off the ice on this small pond. There weren't any reports from anglers this week.

WILLOW POND: (January 14) There weren't any reports from anglers this week. Officer Roach recently reported that most of the urban ponds have ice on them after the recent cold spell. Willow and Millrace had some open water, but he didn't see anyone fishing. Be cautious and don't venture onto the ice.

YUBA RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (January 14) Most anglers report slow success, but some are catching decent numbers of perch. Location is important. Although the reservoir is frozen, ice conditions fluctuate. Use caution when venturing onto the ice and drill several test holes along the way to verify thickness. Never go onto the ice alone. Visit stateparks.utah.gov/conditions and find updated current conditions for the park you want to visit.

Ice Fishing Tournament scheduled for Scofield

Huntington – Scofield State Park hosts its fourth annual ice fishing tournament Saturday, January 2. Check-in begins at 7 a.m. and the tournament starts at 7:30 a.m. Registration is $15 for adults and $10 for youth 16 and younger.

Door prizes and a prize for the biggest fish will be awarded. Registration is limited to 200 anglers. To register or for more information, please call (435) 687-2491.