This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Ryan Mosley, Flaming Gorge Project Leader with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, sent in this report. As always, goof fishing at the Gorge.
Fishing is really good on the reservoir right now, if you like seasonably mild temps, low angler pressure, and big fish!The rainbow fishing has been the hot bite and 2-3lbers are the norm with the occasional 4lber mixed in. All around the reservoir big rainbows can be found near inflows, launch ramps, and along shallow, rocky shorelines and points. Rainbows will actually excavate "redds" in small cobble rock and on calm days can be easily spotted from the boat. Lots of lures will work, but I've had the best success with 1/4 oz marabou jigs in pinks, blacks, and olives. Try tipping with bait like a Berkley trout worm or piece of night crawler, for further enticement. Cast towards shore or a spotted fish and keep a tight line, giving it a couple of jigs every few seconds. Most of the hits come on the fall so watch your line or rod tip. Areas where the water is off-colored and/or wind chopped are more productive for boat-shy fish. If fishing from shore, walk the shoreline looking for rainbows working the shallows. Cast jigs, spoons, or shallow crankbaits. If you prefer to use bait, the marshmallow/worm combo always produces fish. The fishing pier at Dam Point was recently re-opened and offers a great opportunity for those with limited access options. Finally, with the warm days come the insects. I've recently observed cicadas hatching (yes cicidas!), but also flying ants, mayflies, and even hoppers. All of those presentations will work for those wanting to fling some bugs!Kokanee and lake trout are being caught reservoir-wide, but still more variable than rainbow trout. Water temps are climbing to the upper 40s, and while fishing on Friday, I saw 48F in the afternoon. We even spotted some big smallmouth bass in the shallows, but they didn't want to play. It won't be long though!Good luck, Ryan