Utah tends to consistently rank highly when it comes to states with the best ice fishing. That’s all thanks to their abundance of award-winning bodies of water from top to bottom. Knowing which ones are the most popular – and which ones are “hidden gems” – can help take your ice fishing adventures to the next level.
Are you thinking about ice fishing in Utah sometime soon? Then you need to know the top spots to check out! This article shares some of the best ice fishing spots within Utah, from popular picks to lesser known but still noteworthy options.
Top 11 Ice Fishing Spots in Utah
While there are many more than 12 places to ice fish in Utah, these bodies of water truly stand out for all they have to offer. Check out these highly sought-after ice fishing locations and find out everything you need to know about them, including where they’re located and what types of fish species await you.
Fish Lake
Recently deemed the “winter playground” of Utah, it’s easy to see why ice fishers flock to Fish Lake during ice fishing season. Not only is this the largest natural mountain lake in Utah, but it’s also famous for its abundance of lake trout – up to 40 pounds worth.
If perch fishing is more your game, you can take things to the next level by entering the Annual Perch Tournament – which doubles as a successful way for the lake to eliminate some of its 4,000,000 perch population.
Sitting 8,800 above sea level and surrounded by the beauty of the forest, Fish Lake is quite a sight to be seen. It’s home to more than just trout and perch too. In this lake, you can find a variety of fish, such as: splake (a fish that’s crossed between a lake and brook trout), rainbow trout, tiger trout, salmon kokanee, tiger musky, carp, and Utah suckers.
Finding Fish Lake is relatively easy, thanks to its convenient location in Central Utah near Richfield. It’s a great place to stop for a day trip, although the various surrounding campgrounds, resorts, and stores can easily make this a weekend getaway you won’t soon forget.
Panguitch Lake
Located in the Southernmost portion of Utah, you’ll find Panguitch Lake, the hot spot best known for its trout – This popular lake, also referred to as “Quail Reservoir,” is near Cedar City and St. George.
This lake is far enough from most people in the state that live in Northern Utah. That said, you can find a good chunk of fish while ice fishing and may not have too many neighbors. The species you’ll likely find during your venture include rainbow trout, bluegill, and crappie.
Here are a couple of tips for success at this lake:
- It’s recommended to capture trout by shore or boat using popular techniques, including bait, spinners, and flies.
- Bluegill and crappie typically hang out near the edge of drop-offs, and if you can find a school of panfish, you’re in luck!
- While it’s less likely, you may be able to catch one of the famous largemouth bass during the chillier months, although they are less active during the cold. They’re found deeper in the water, at least 20 to 40 feet deep, and respond best to slow presentations.
This is another destination that can be utilized as a day trip, but you can also bring along your gear and set up your tent at one of the campgrounds.
Scofield Reservoir
Situated high in the majestic Manti-La Sal Mountains is the Scofield Reservoir, an ice fishing spot that genuinely feels out of this world – even though it’s not too far from civilization. With its high altitude and cool waters pairing, fish freely swim, allowing shore anglers to see a part of the action.
The best part? Scofield Reservoir is one of the first significant water to freeze (typically by Thanksgiving Day), which means you don’t have to wait endlessly to bust out your jigs, lures, and flies.
When ice fishing at Scofield Reservoir, you’re likely to find an abundance of cutthroat throat, rainbow trout, and tiger trout (a hybrid mix of brown and brook trout) – which is why this body of water is often referred to as a premier ice fishing location for trout. In fact, it was here that an angler caught the Utah record tiger trout at 19-pound, 2-ounce!
Being successful at Scofield Reservoir isn’t complicated. Here are some top tips from regulars:
- Cutthroat and tiger trout readily hit smaller lures that are trolled or cast.
- Standard trout lures and bait work well.
- Many have found minnow imitators and Rapalas to be the best options.
- Dark and olive wooly buggers are recommended for fly anglers.
- Another excellent choice is jigs with night crawlers or sucker meat.
- Finally, you can use dead minnows (not live ones!).
If you want to test your skills against other ice fishers at Scofield Reservoir, you can also compete in the annual ice fishing tournament.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir
When it comes to ice fishing in Utah, one place undeniably worth mentioning is Flaming Gorge Reservoir. This is one of the most popular spots for ice fishing for several reasons, from being slow to freeze because of its impressive depth to its famous, humongous trout – one which currently holds a record of 51 pounds, 8 ounces!
While plenty of people flock to Flaming Gorge Reservoir in search of these enormous trout, it’s not the only fish to find along the 350 miles of shoreline. Other species are common, with most ice anglers coming away with trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth Bass, and burbot.
Of course, the most challenging fish to catch at Flaming Gorge Reservoir are the trophy lake trout and the Mackinaw. These species are undeniably the most sought-after and complex, but it’s said that ice anglers catch up to 30 pounds per season.
Bountiful Pond
For those seeking an ice fishing spot that’s a little quieter and less populated, Bountiful Pond (also called Bountiful Lake) may be an excellent choice. This pond is in Bountiful, Utah, within Davis County, Utah. It’s easy to find – and even easier to find a parking spot.
This artificial pond is known for having a wide range of species inside, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, walleye, bluegill, crappie, carp, bullhead channel catfish, yellow perch, and lake trout.
However, rainbow trout seem to be the easiest thing to catch. Many ice anglers have said they prefer foxy jigs with mealworms and have seen plenty of success using this method.
Pineview Reservoir
You’ll find Pineview Reservoir within the mountains east of Ogden. This Ogden Valley reservoir is known for having plenty of outdoorsy things to do, with one of the most popular being fishing – especially for those seeking the “trophy-sized tiger muskies” this area is known for.
However, larger-than-life tiger muskies aren’t the only fish to be caught at Pineview Reservoir. This reservoir has a plethora of other fish worth catching, including smallmouth bass, crappie, perch, and bullhead catfish. You can also find some trout in specific areas, such as right below and at the South Fork above the reservoir.
One of the perks of fishing at Pineview Reservoir is that it is nestled within a valley, so you won’t have to worry about pesky winds disrupting your fishing venture or making you too chilled.
Here are a few noteworthy things to keep in mind to be successful at this reservoir:
- You’ll likely catch the most fish within 15 to 35 feet deep.
- Early morning and late afternoon have proven to be the best times for fishing.
- The best options include shrimps and nuclear ants.
- Baits tipped with wax worms, mealworms, and gulp maggots are also a great choice.
Strawberry Reservoir
You can’t say “ice fishing in Utah” without thinking of Strawberry Reservoir. This impeccable reservoir at 7,602 feet offers stunning scenery and is well-known for its cutthroat, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon – so much so that it’s won an award.
Just 65 miles east of Salt Lake City and nestled in the Uinta National Forest, Strawberry Reservoir has certainly become a hot spot for ice fishers of all ages – receiving over 1.5 million anglers per year.
While ice fishing at Strawberry Reservoir is relatively steady, and most won’t leave empty-handed, it’s said that the best time to fish is early morning in January. During this time, the snow is thick enough to fish safely, there is less wind factor, and the chances of catching larger fish up to 24 inches are more accessible.
When it comes to ice fishing for cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon at “The ‘Berry,” it’s best to use jigs topped with these fishes’ favorites, such as minnow or nightcrawler. They’re also drawn to feathered jigs, power bait, and Rapalas.
Whether you have exceptional luck at Strawberry Reservoir or not, many enjoy staying in the area to enjoy the plethora of other wintertime activities, such as ATVs, snowmobiling, and camping.
East Canyon Reservoir
For those who may be sick and tired of the “same ole, same ole” when it comes to ice fishing spots near Salt Lake City, Utah, the East Canyon Reservoir may be a nice change of pace. While still a popular destination, it’s not nearly as crowded as other nearby spots.
East Canyon Reservoir is a mere 35 miles from Salt Lake City. The drive offers some of the most beautiful scenery you can find, making it a trip worth taking.
Once you arrive at this 197-foot-deep body of water, you’ll have the opportunity to catch several species, from cutthroat trout to tiger trout, wipers to crawdads. However, it’s worth mentioning that rainbow trout continue to be the most popular – and most accessible – to catch.
Lost Creek
Lost Creek was once a hidden gem. And while it’s gained popularity in recent years, it’s still one of the least populated places to enjoy ice fishing compared to other options. Located 70 miles from Salt Lake City in the (newly designated in 2021) Lost Creek State Park, this 28-foot-deep lake is home to various species, including rainbow trout, tiger trout, and cutthroat.
Many anglers claim that the coves and cliff faces on the furthest side of Lost Creek yield the fastest fishing, but you can also drill holes into the peninsula for a quick catch – especially if you’re on the hunt for rainbow trout. They’re best caught with ice flies tipped with various items, such as mealworms or salmon eggs.
Some other must-know tips include:
- Cutthroat in the reservoir prefers white hair-head or feather jigs tipped with mealworms or frozen minnows.
- Rainbow trout prefer pink, blue, and white ice flies and jigs and are typically found within 10 to 40 feet of water.
- Tiger trout, splake, and cutthroat are usually a bit deeper at 20 to 65 feet and enjoy jigging lures with sucker meat.
- Larger fish are usually found around the shoreline but 50 to 60 feet deep.
- Shallow waters below ten feet may have fish, but you’ll need to be quiet while searching for them.
Starvation Reservoir
If you’re looking specifically to catch some walleyes, Starvation Reservoir is the ultimate spot to ice fish in eastern Utah.
Starvation Reservoir, located four miles northwest of Duchesne and 118 miles from Salt Lake City, is a 47-foot-deep haven for walleyes – with many topping 15 pounds, and the current record is 31.75 inches in 15 pounds, 9 ounces. It’s said that plastic jigs, grubs, and crawlers with Lindy or spinner rigs are the best choices for capturing ultra-large walleyes.
While walleyes are the hot topic at Starvation Reservoir, it’s not to say that other species can’t also be caught. Trout, perch, and smallmouth bass are three other commonly caught fish varieties you’ll find within the waters, too.
While ice fishing is a main draw to Starvation Reservoir, there are other activities to enjoy turning your fishing venture into a weekend-long adventure. Plus, this area is known for its gorgeous sunrises and sunsets you won’t find elsewhere – making it a must-see location.
Bear Lake
Any avid ice angler will tell you that Bear Lake is a must-visit. Bear Lake, known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” thanks to its stunningly blue waters, is Utah’s second-largest natural freshwater lake and has a consistent record of freezing four out of every five years (fingers crossed it stays that way!)
It straddles Utah and Idaho and is home to the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest, a fundraising event held in January (the same month where ice fishing is considered at its “peak” at Bear Lake).
Aside from its beauty, Bear Lake is also known for another incredible thing: it’s home to a unique and diverse fish species, including two species you can’t find anywhere else in the world: Bonneville Whitefish and Cisco (which can be dip-netted or jigged with a pole).
Two other acclaimed species also inhabit this body of water, the Bear Lake Whitefish and Bear Lake Sculpin.
The Bonneville Cisco is, without a doubt, the most well-known catch for the area. However, if you can’t get your hands on one of them, you might be lucky enough to capture a trophy cutthroat trout (over 10 pounds) or a lake trout (up to 20 pounds).
Popular ice fishing occurs at the “rock pile” with GPS coordinates of: 41.91472, -111.37306
HINT: use pieces of the local cisco, chub, or carp as bait!
Echo Reservoir
The final option is Echo Reservoir. This body of water is just a short, 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City and lies inside the Echo State Park, where outdoor adventures are abundant. And while Echo Reservoir may see visitors year-round, it draws plenty of ice anglers who enjoy the thick and stable ice this water offers.
There is a good chunk of fish species awaiting you at Echo Reservoir, including: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and channel catfish.
Many anglers have found the best luck utilizes lures, flies, and natural types of bait, like worms. However, they say that to catch largemouth bass, you should swap these options for crankbaits with worms or pork frogs.
Ice Fishing in Utah: What You Need
One of the perks of ice fishing compared to other types of fishing styles is that there isn’t too much equipment involved. However, you’ll still need some of the essentials. This includes:
- Ice Fishing License: If you’re 12 or older, you must purchase a Utah fishing license. Fees can vary greatly, depending on age and resident status. For example, a resident aged 12 to 13 can buy a one-year fishing license for $5, while a nonresident 3-day fishing license is $31.
- Warm Clothing/Layers: It’s cold while ice fishing – otherwise, you couldn’t perform this activity! That said, it’s crucial to bundle up. Plenty of layers are highly
- Food and Water for the Trip: Whether you’re staying 30 minutes, three hours, or 13 hours, it’s essential to bring along some food and water for your ice fishing adventure. The last thing you want to do is end up hungry or thirsty while on a body of water.
- Ice Auger and Scooper: You’ll need to create a hole in the ice to reach the fish beneath. This is done using an ice auger. This is an essential tool to have for ice fishing, so don’t step foot onto the ice without it. Don’t forget the scooper to help remove the snow from your hole.
- Fishing Equipment: Finally, you’ll need items to actually ice fish in Utah. Equipment such as fishing rods, ice lures, bait, and bobbers are necessary for a successful haul. You may or may not want to bring an ice sled to make carrying your equipment and catches easier.
Tips for Success While Ice Fishing in Utah
Before going on your ice fishing trip in Utah, here are a few crucial tips to help you be successful regardless of where you put your fishing pole:
- It’s recommended to “know before you go.” This simply means that you should check out reputable sites, such as Utah Fish Reports, to get current information on ice conditions. Some may be starting to melt, which means you may want to consider switching to a different destination.
- Some fish species are affected by the chilly waters and won’t have as strong a bite, so it’s essential to be extra careful and pay close attention to the tip of your rod. It can help to purchase a spring bobber to know when you’re getting little nibbles.
- Fish can be caught any time of day. However, going in the morning or afternoon is almost always recommended.
- Don’t step on ice unless it is at least four inches deep for safety purposes. Keep in mind that ice thickness will vary from spot to spot within a lake or reservoir, so be vigilant about where you’re stepping and check thickness regularly.
- While it’s OK to check out different areas if you’re not getting bites, “hole jumping” isn’t always a great idea. Low and slow is an excellent method when it comes to ice fishing in Utah.
- Bring an ice pick along for the ride. In case of an emergency where you’ve fallen through the ice, this tool will help you get out safely and swiftly.
Utah’s Premier Ice Fishing Waters Await!
Needless to say, Utah is a haven for all kinds of bodies of water that are dreams come true for ice anglers. There are so many options to choose from, including large and popular lakes like Fish Lake and Quail Lake, and quieter and more secluded choices such as Bountiful Pond and East Canyon Reservoir.
When choosing a spot to ice fish, it’s best to pinpoint what species you’re looking for to select the body of water that’s right for you.
As always, remain safe while ice fishing. Don’t step on ice that isn’t at least four inches thick and keep an ice pick handy in case of emergencies. Always bring along food, snacks, and all your essential gear to enjoy a (hopefully) successful and stress-free ice-fishing adventure.
