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Ice Fishing Lakes In Utah

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Guide to favorite fish species at top ice fishing lakes in the state.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Ice fishing

The best ice fishing lakes in UT include Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Bear Lake and Fish Lake. The most popular species through the ice, across the state, include trout and perch. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about the best ice fishing lakes in the state, plus the species found in each lake. See a list of lakes and species below.

Ice fishing is as basic as fishing gets. During winter, it is popular here in the state. Aside from the tools one uses to create a hole in the ice, all other gear is very basic. A simple rod, reel, line and hook or lure is all you need.

Utah's winter landscape transforms its lakes into icy playgrounds for ice fishing enthusiasts. Ice fishing is a popular activity during the colder months, attracting anglers seeking a unique fishing experience. Some of the most common fish species targeted during ice fishing in Utah include rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, yellow perch, and bluegill.

Ice Fishing Tips & Techniques Video

Ice fishing in Utah typically involves drilling holes through the ice and setting up ice fishing shelters or tents to shield anglers from the cold. Anglers use various ice fishing equipment, such as ice fishing rods, tip-ups, and jigs, to present bait or lures to the fish below the frozen surface. It's essential to have appropriate ice fishing gear, including ice augers to create the fishing holes and safety equipment like ice picks and life jackets.

Safety is of utmost importance when engaging in ice fishing. Ice conditions can vary, and it's crucial to ensure the ice is thick enough to support your weight. Many anglers follow the "Four-Inch Rule," which suggests that ice should be at least four inches thick for individual ice fishing and at least five inches thick for groups. It's also essential to keep an eye on weather conditions, as rapid changes in temperature can affect ice stability.

Before venturing onto the ice, it's essential to check with local authorities or experienced ice anglers about the current ice conditions and potential hazards. Always fish with a buddy and let someone know your plans, including your fishing location and return time. Equipped with the right knowledge, gear, and safety precautions, ice fishing in Utah can be a thrilling and rewarding winter adventure for anglers of all ages and experience levels.

Top Ice Fishing Lakes & Species

There are numerous places to go ice fishing in the state. Here are a list of some of the proven, best destinations.

Click the images for species details.

This is a great way to get the kids to go outdoors in winter, connect with nature and learn to fish. The first consideration when attempting to go ice fishing, is safety. Make sure the ice is safe, and that you are prepared should an accident occur. Dress to stay warm - it's better to remove extra jackets than be cold and miserable. Be aware that the ice can be slippery, and falls can be dangerous.

Click here for ice fishing basics, including details on finding the best place to fish, tips for cutting a hole, basic tackle, bait, lures, depths to fish, safety, shanty's, tents and huts.

Best ice fishing method for crappie, bluegill, perch and sunfish

Horizontal jigs and spoon-type baits are the go-to baits for crappie, either tipped with a minnow, wax worm or prepared baits often triggers more bites. Jigs work better close to the bottom, spoons tend to work better higher in the water column. If options allow, 15 to 30 feet is the most common depth. Adjust as necessary. See additional info on ice fishing for crappie, perch and sunfish.

Best ice fishing method for trout

Trout focus on small forage fish in winter, so baits that flash silver - jigs or spoons, do well in attracting trout. Dual rods, where legal, are very effective. One rod with a jig/live bait set up on a tip-up, the second with a spoon fished up and down pretty aggressively. See more detail about ice fishing for trout.

Click here for a Utah Fishing License.

Utah Map

 

States with notable ice fishing.

AZ Ice Fishing CA Ice Fishing CO Ice Fishing CT Ice Fishing IA Ice Fishing ID Ice Fishing IL Ice Fishing IN Ice Fishing
KS Ice Fishing MA Ice Fishing MD Ice Fishing ME Ice Fishing MI Ice Fishing MN Ice Fishing MT Ice Fishing ND Ice Fishing
NE Ice Fishing NH Ice Fishing NJ Ice Fishing NM Ice Fishing NV Ice Fishing NY Ice Fishing OH Ice Fishing OR Ice Fishing
PA Ice Fishing RI Ice Fishing SD Ice Fishing UT Ice Fishing VT Ice Fishing WA Ice Fishing WI Ice Fishing WY Ice Fishing