Fishing Fun: 7 Utah State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Utah’s dramatic landscapes and beautiful mountain lakes make it a paradise for anglers. From high mountain lakes to vast desert reservoirs, the state’s parks offer year-round fishing opportunities for trout, bass, walleye and more. Here are some of the best state parks in Utah for fishing adventures whether you’re anchored at a marina or traveling from a private boat dock for rent.

1. Deer Creek State Park

Deer Creek Reservoir, located in the Heber Valley in Wallsburg, is a favorite among local anglers for its excellent populations of rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and walleye. The clear, cold waters are ideal for both shore and boat fishing, and the scenic Wasatch Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for excursions from marinas or private boat slips for rent.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat 

2. Jordanelle State Park

Grab your gear and cruise out from private boat lift rentals to this next fishing spot in Heber City. Just minutes from Park City, Jordanelle State Park’s reservoir is one of Utah’s premier fishing destinations. It’s stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout and smallmouth bass. The park’s modern facilities, clean campsites and easy access make it perfect for family fishing trips. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, brown trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Sand Hollow State Park

Located in Hurricane, near St. George, Sand Hollow Reservoir offers warm-water fishing at its best. The bright blue water is home to largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. The park’s red sandstone cliffs and desert setting make it as visually striking as it is productive for anglers and those coming from boat docks for rent near me. . 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat

4. Flaming Gorge State Park

Straddling the Utah-Wyoming border, in Manila, Flaming Gorge is a fishing legend. The deep 91-mile long reservoir is famous for trophy lake trout (mackinaw), kokanee salmon and rainbow trout. With miles of shoreline and excellent boating access, it’s a top spot for serious anglers and families fishing from bass boats, canoes or a pontoon boat. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, lake trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Quail Creek State Park

Another gem in southern Utah, Quail Creek Reservoir in Hurricane is known for its warm, clear waters and abundant bass and crappie. The park’s mild climate allows for year-round fishing, and the nearby red cliffs create a striking and serene setting.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Crappie, bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. East Canyon State Park

East Canyon Reservoir, just northeast of Salt Lake City in Morgan, is a convenient spot for catching rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and brown trout. It’s ideal for day trips or quick weekend getaways from boat slips for rent near me, offering both shore and boat fishing options.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, brown trout, rainbow trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

7. Palisade State Park

Palisade State Park sits peacefully in the Sanpete Valley of Sterling. Palisade Lake is a small but scenic destination popular with trout anglers. The calm waters and well-kept facilities make it a great spot for beginners or families looking for a peaceful fishing retreat.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore