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World-class lake trout are lurking in waters right here in Utah, reaching sizes upwards of 50 pounds. Surprisingly, it’s not all that difficult to catch a glimpse of one of these whoppers up close. Beautiful Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which straddles southwest Wyoming and a portion of northeastern Utah, covers 40,000 acres, making it a haven for several species, including lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, and more. It produced the state record for a 51-pound lake trout back in 1988, though unofficial catch-and-release records have moved that bar to the 55-pound mark.
Flaming Gorge’s lake trout population originally arrived by swimming into it via the Green River system. Anglers now come from all over the country to land a 20-pounder, which are fairly common, a 30-pounder, which are caught regularly, all the way up to 40- and 50-pounders, which are definitely more difficult to catch.
Lake trout can often be found in shallow water during the early spring and late fall; however, during summer and winter months, the trout travel to depths between 70 to 120 feet, requiring a bit more planning. Anglers usually traverse the following areas when targeting lake trout: Mustang Ridge, Hideout, Jarvies Canyon, Linwood Bay, Anvil Draw, Buckboard, and Antelope Flats.
Regardless of where and when you go, plan on bringing an extra dose of patience. Lake trout fishing can be slow for hours at a time, but when you get a strike, all that waiting is suddenly forgotten.
More Information:
Utah Division of Wildlife Fish Stocking Schedule
Directions:
There are many great spots to fish on the reservoir. Check out this Flaming Gorge Driving Guide for directions to some of the most popular. Lots of anglers prefer to use the town of Manila as their home base, so check out the directions below if you want to take that route.
From Salt Lake City to Manila:
Take I-80 east until you are passing through Evanston, Wyoming. Go about 30 miles past Evanston and take the Ft. Bridger exit. Travel about 4-6 miles until you get to a four-way intersection. Take a right onto highway 414, drive about 45 minutes to Manila.
Related Information:
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
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