Guide To Fishing At Flaming Gorge Reservoir

AKA: The Gorge

One of Utah's premier outdoor destinations, Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a 42,000-acre lake with excellent fishing and boating. Located on the northern border part of the state, at Manila, the lake has over 350 miles of shoreline.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a large and scenic reservoir located in the northeastern corner of Utah, straddling the border with Wyoming. It is renowned for its outstanding fishing opportunities and breathtaking red cliffs that surround the water, making it a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The reservoir is known for its excellent trout fishing. Rainbow trout and cutthroat trout are commonly found in abundance, and anglers can enjoy both catch-and-release and harvest opportunities. These trout species thrive in the cold, clear waters of Flaming Gorge and provide an exciting challenge for fly fishermen and lure enthusiasts alike.

Another sought-after species in Flaming Gorge is the lake trout, also known as mackinaw. These large and powerful fish are a favorite among anglers looking for a thrilling fight and a chance to catch a trophy-sized fish. The lake trout population in Flaming Gorge has grown significantly over the years, making it a premier destination for those seeking a chance to land a big fish.

For those interested in warm-water fishing, Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for smallmouth bass fishing. The reservoir's rocky shorelines and clear waters create an ideal habitat for these feisty and hard-fighting bass, providing anglers with an enjoyable experience.

Kokanee salmon, a landlocked version of the sockeye salmon, is another popular species found in Flaming Gorge. Anglers can target these silver-sided fish during the warmer months, and they offer both fun fishing action and delicious table fare.

In addition to trout, bass, and salmon, Flaming Gorge Reservoir is also home to channel catfish. These bottom-dwelling fish provide a fun challenge for anglers who enjoy fishing with bait and targeting a variety of species.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir's fishing season typically extends from spring to fall, with the best times varying depending on the species. Spring and early summer are excellent for trout fishing, while kokanee salmon fishing is typically at its peak during the summer months. Smallmouth bass fishing is great during the warmer months, and lake trout can be targeted year-round.

Overall, Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers a diverse and exciting fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels, making it a top destination for those seeking a memorable fishing adventure in the scenic landscapes of Utah.

Over half of the reservoir is in Wyoming, but plenty of great fishing and the Flaming Gorge Dam Visitor Center is in Utah. Stunning views await anglers and boaters on this scenic waterway. Record lake trout and German browns have come out of these fertile waters, which also have healthy populations of bass, catfish, rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. The lake is surrounded by Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area with camping and marinas in both states. Access to the shoreline, for fishing from the bank, is available at numerous locations around the lake. Area fishing guides and boat charters are available which know the better fishing areas and techniques. In winter, once the ice is safe, there can be some excellent ice fishing.

What to fish for...

Fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee salmon at Flaming Gorge Reservoir in Utah.

Primary fish species residing in Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Cedar Springs Marina
Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats
435 889-3795

Lucerne Valley Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
435 784-3483

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Cedar Springs Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off N Cedar Springs Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Lucerne Valley Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Lucerne Valley Recreation Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Mustang Ridge Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, east side, off Mustang Ridge Boat Launch Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sheep Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off County Road 092, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.