Bass Fishing & Bass Lakes In Utah

Guide to fishing for smallmouth and largemouth bass.

By Rick Seaman

Visit the Bass Knowledge Center for valuable information about bass and bass fishing.

Utah is a great destination for bass fishing enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities to catch both largemouth and smallmouth bass. These two species are among the most sought-after game fish in the state, and anglers from all over come to test their skills and experience the thrill of reeling in these powerful fighters.

Largemouth bass can be found in various lakes and reservoirs throughout Utah, with their preferred habitats including weedy areas, submerged vegetation, and shoreline structures. Some popular lakes for largemouth bass fishing include Utah Lake, Deer Creek Reservoir, and Sand Hollow Reservoir. Anglers often use a variety of baits and lures, such as soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures, to entice these elusive fish.

Smallmouth bass, known for their aggressive nature and acrobatic jumps, are another prized catch for anglers in Utah. They prefer clearer and cooler waters, making them more common in certain rivers and reservoirs. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Lake Powell, and Strawberry Reservoir are known for their excellent smallmouth bass populations. Fishing with jigs, spinnerbaits, and jerkbaits can be particularly effective in attracting these feisty fighters.

The best time for bass fishing in Utah varies with the seasons. Spring and fall are generally considered the prime seasons, as bass become more active in search of food and warmer water. During these periods, bass are more likely to be in shallow water, making them easier to target. However, experienced anglers can still find success throughout the year by adjusting their techniques and locating bass in deeper waters during the summer and winter months.

Utah's diverse bass fishing opportunities, combined with its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, make it a top destination for anglers seeking memorable fishing experiences. Whether you're an avid bass angler or a beginner looking for a new challenge, Utah's waters provide an exciting and rewarding bass fishing adventure.

Top Bass Fishing Lakes In UT

There are some excellent bass waters in Utah. Major lakes including Deer Creek Reservoir, Pineview Reservoir, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Jordanelle Reservoir, Lake Powell, Otter Creek Reservoir, Pineview Reservoir, Piute Reservoir, Sand Hollow Reservoir, Starvation Lake and Utah Lake all have healthy populations of bass. Other smaller lakes, ponds and rivers also hold bass.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Top 5 Bass Fishing Lures For Utah

When bass are shallow, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and stickbaits are the most productive. As they move deeper, worms and jigs are among the top producers.

Utah State Record Bass

The state record largemouth bass was caught from Lake Powell.

The state record smallmouth bass came from Midview Reservoir.

Bass are one of the most sought after of all the game fish. Its appeal spans cultures, age groups and genders to tap on the heart strings of anglers everywhere. Join us in our endeavor to offer information about bass fishing on your favorite bass lake in Utah. Understanding the primary seasonal movements of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass is key to locating them on local lakes in the Beehive State.

Bass fishing basics video.

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Bass fishing information by state.