Hey there, fellow angler! If you've been dreaming about casting your line in some of the most scenic and fish-packed waters in Utah County, you've just hit the jackpot with this guide. It's like a treasure map, but instead of gold, we're after the glistening scales of trout, bass, and more. Let's dive into the must-visit spots that promise not just a catch, but an adventure.

Fishing Spots

1. Vivian Park Pond

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Vivian Park Fishing

  • Location: Up Provo Canyon
  • Fish: Brown trout and rainbow trout
  • Recommended Bait: Spinnerbait, dry flies, or salmon eggs under a bobber

2. Utah Lake

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The Epic Utah Valley Spring Bucket List

  • Location: Near BYU
  • Fish: Bullhead catfish, common carp, channel catfish, black crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, and white bass
  • Recommended Bait: Chartreuse, pink, or white curly tail grubs, paddle bugs for white bass. Chicken livers, hot dogs, stink baits, or nightcrawlers for catfish.

3. Tibble Fork Reservoir

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Ice Fishing

  • Location: Halfway between American Fork Canyon and Utah Valley
  • Fish: Rainbow trout
  • Recommended Bait: Woolly buggers, nightcrawlers, and dry flies under a bobber

4. Spanish Oaks Reservoir

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spanish-oaks-reservoir

  • Location: Mouth of Spanish Fork Canyon
  • Fish: Rainbow trout
  • Recommended Bait: Rainbow PowerBait, salmon eggs, nightcrawlers, or soft plastic jigs tipped with a nightcrawler or mealworm

5. Deer Creek Reservoir

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Sundance Fly Fishing on the Provo River Winter

  • Location: Southwest corner of Heber Valley
  • Fish: Largemouth bass, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye
  • Recommended Bait: Garlic Rainbow Powerbait or Nightcrawlers for rainbows. Rapala DT 4–10, Bomber 6A, or Yellow Perch Rapala Rippin’ Rap for smallmouth bass.

6. Salem Pond

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Salem Pond

  • Location: Heart of Salem City, south of Provo
  • Fish: Bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout
  • Recommended Bait: Spinners and Powerbait for rainbows. Gary Yamamoto Senkos or purple, black, or brown pepper jigs for largemouth bass.

7. Burraston Ponds

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  • Location: Known for the famous Mona rope swing
  • Fish: Rainbow trout
  • Recommended Bait: Nightcrawlers, Powerbait, Panther Martin Classic Regular Gold spinner, or Panther Martin Holographic Rainbow Trout spinner

8. Highland Glen Park

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Highland Glen

  • Location: Highland
  • Fish: Channel catfish and rainbow trout
  • Recommended Bait: Spinners and Powerbait for rainbows. Marabou jigs or 1/8-ounce white and pink curly tail grubs for bluegill.

9. Payson Lakes

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Payson Lakes Under a Starry Night

  • Location: Day-use fee area
  • Fish: Rainbow trout
  • Additional Info: Offers a campground, a beach, and a trail for exploration.

10. Manila Creek Pond

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  • Location: Heart of Pleasant Grove, with scenic mountain views
  • Fish: Rainbow trout
  • Additional Info: Beach on one side, rocks for fishing on the other.

11. American Fork Creek

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American Fork Canyon Alpine Loop

  • Location: Part of Tibble Fork Reservoir, American Fork Canyon
  • Fish: Rainbow trout and brown trout
  • Additional Info: Great spot for introducing kids to stream fishing. Exercise caution during early spring when water levels may be higher.

12. Diamond Fork River

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Camping in Utah Valley

  • Location: Spanish Fork Canyon
  • Fish: Brown trout and cutthroat trout
  • Additional Info: Popular camping destination, recommended for fly fishermen during summertime.

13. Spring Lake Trout Farm

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Fly Fishing Fish Provo River Utah Valley

  • Location: Payson
  • Fish: Various, controlled environment
  • Additional Info: Perfect for families and beginners, no license required, catch and release available.

14. Canyon View Park Pond

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  • Location: Spanish Fork
  • Fish: Trout, largemouth bass (release encouraged)
  • Additional Info: Family-friendly, offers a fishing pier, birdwatching, nature trails, and more.

As we explore these incredible spots in Utah County, let's remember the importance of fishing responsibly. The variety of fish, from the strikingly spotted brook trout to the distinct black bass, adds to the richness of our adventures. Choosing the right bait, understanding the fish, and practicing sustainable fishing ensures these treasures remain for generations to come.

So, gear up, respect nature, and enjoy the bounty Utah County has to offer. Whether you're after the thrill of the catch or the peace of the outdoors, these spots promise unforgettable experiences. Tight lines and happy fishing!