Overview
Fly fishing is one of the most popular activities in Southern Utah. Most spots are off-the-beaten track so anglers can enjoy a short hike and a quiet spot while waiting for the “big one” to bite. Fly fishing Southern Utah can be done from small boats or from the riverbank.
Species
Popular catches for Southern Utah fly fishing are rainbow and brown trout in streams along with cutthroat trout in the East Fork of the Sevier River. Panguitch Lake is a popular spot for trophy sized trout as “Panguitch” means “big fish”! Other fish include splake (a hybrid lake trout/brook trout), whitefish, carp, suckers and hybrid tiger trout which can reach 20-25 inches.
Season
Southern Utah fishing is allowed all year round provided access is possible.
Regulations
A valid Southern Utah fishing license is required for all anglers over the age of 15. Licenses are available online or from local retailers.
Where to Go Fishing
Tropic Reservoir
Tropic Reservoir is 25 miles southeast of Panguitch and is open from May to October. Small to medium brown trout and rainbow trout are abundant in the reservoir, along with cutthroats. Fishing is good from the shoreline or from a small boat and there is a boat ramp.
Panguitch Lake
Covering 1,250 acres, Panguitch Lake has a 10-mile shoreline and year-round access for fishing. Panguitch Lake offer excellent fishing from the shore or by boat for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout and brown trout. The lake has a convenient fish-cleaning station. In the winter it is possible to go ice fishing.
Pine Lake
This small lake is in a spectacular setting 10 miles northeast of Tropic at an elevation of 7,500 feet. The lake has an abundance of holdover fish making it ideal for good size brown, cutthroat and rainbow trout.
Barker Lake
Located 12 miles north of Escalante, Barker Lake has good catches of brook and rainbow trout, but there is no boat ramp.
Navajo Lake and Duck Creek
Located along Hwy 14 on the Markagunt Plateau, the lakes and streams in this area are popular for rainbow, German brown, cutthroat and brook trout.
Posy Lake
Just off Hwy 12 on forest road 154 near Escalante, Posy Lake offers good angling for rainbow and brook trout and has a fish-cleaning station and campground.
Boulder Mountain
Fly fishing for trout is a popular activity on Boulder Mountain. The many unnamed lakes and small streams offer excellent fishing opportunities for hardy cutthroat and brook trout. The waters are crystal clear and trout cruise close to the edge looking for food. Waders are required to counter the icy water and many leeches but it can be tricky as levels change abruptly. Flies and jigs in dark colors and small lures are usually effective.
Sevier River, East Fork
This designated Blue Ribbon fishing area has rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout but it is difficult to fish with lots of steep slopes, brush and rocks. Access is from Hwy 22 from Antimony or Bryce Canyon.
Sevier River, West Fork
Rainbow, brown, cutthroat trout; whitefish, carp and suckers are commonly caught. Access is via Hwy 89 between Hatch and Circleville.
Sevier River (Lower)
Offering good bass and walleye fishing below DMAD reservoir, other catches include brown and rainbow trout; walleye; channel catfish; smallmouth bass; perch; suckers; carp and good sized catfish.
East Virgin River
The East Virgin River runs from the east side of Zion National Park to merge with the main Virgin River. It offers excellent fishing for trout and is easy to access along Hwy 89 north of Glendale.
Fishing Guides
The area around Cedar City and Torrey both have a good choice of tour companies and outfitters to provide equipment rentals or full fishing tours in the area with a knowledgeable local guide. Checkout some of the providers listed below.
