Full-Day Fly Fishing at Jordanelle & Deer Creek
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Eight-hour guided fishing adventure at two premier Utah reservoirsExpert instruction available for both fly fishing and spin castingPrivate single-guest experience with professional local guides
Picture this: you're standing knee-deep in crystal-clear mountain water, rod in hand, with the Wasatch Mountains creating a stunning backdrop. That's exactly what you get with our 8-hour guided fishing adventure at two of Utah's premier fishing destinations. Jordanelle and Deer Creek reservoirs offer some of the most consistent trout fishing in the state, and I've been guiding these waters for years. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to dial in your technique or someone who's ready to experience what world-class reservoir fishing is all about, this full-day trip delivers the goods. We'll spend quality time on the water, switching between locations based on conditions and what the fish are telling us.
This isn't your typical rushed half-day trip. With 8 full hours, we have the luxury of really working the water and adapting to what's happening throughout the day. Both Jordanelle and Deer Creek are renowned for their diverse trout populations, and each reservoir has its own personality. Jordanelle tends to fish well in deeper structures and along the dam face, while Deer Creek offers fantastic shallow water opportunities, especially during certain times of year. We'll start early to catch the morning bite, work through the midday lulls with proven techniques, and capitalize on the evening feed. The beauty of having two reservoirs at our disposal means if one's being finicky, we can switch gears and hit the other. I've seen days where Deer Creek was absolutely on fire while Jordanelle was quiet, and vice versa. That flexibility is what makes this trip a customer favorite among serious anglers.
Here's where things get interesting – we're not locked into just one approach. If you're passionate about fly fishing, I'll show you the subsurface patterns that absolutely crush it on these reservoirs. We're talking chironomids, scuds, leeches, and seasonal mayfly patterns that match what these trout are keyed in on. The stillwater fly fishing here is technical and rewarding. For those who prefer spin casting or want to mix it up, we'll work spinners, spoons, and jigs that have proven track records. Both reservoirs have excellent structure – submerged trees, rocky points, and drop-offs that hold fish consistently. I provide all the gear, but if you have a favorite rod setup, bring it along. The water clarity in both lakes means we often sight fish, which adds another layer of excitement. You'll learn to read the water, understand thermal layers, and pick up on subtle signs that separate good days from great ones.
The trout fishing at Jordanelle and Deer Creek has been absolutely stellar this year. We're consistently seeing healthy rainbows in the 16-20 inch range, with some pushing beyond that mark. The browns have been particularly aggressive, especially during low-light periods. What really sets these waters apart is the variety – it's not uncommon to land three or four different species in a single outing. The state manages these fisheries well, with regular stockings supplementing strong natural reproduction. Recent trips have produced some memorable fish, including a handful of cutthroat that fought like they were twice their size. The brook trout, while not as common, show up in specific areas and are always a welcome surprise. Arctic grayling add an exotic element that you won't find in many other Utah waters. Each species fights differently and requires slightly different approaches, which keeps things interesting throughout our 8-hour adventure.
Rainbow Trout are the bread and butter of both reservoirs, and for good reason. These fish are aggressive, acrobatic, and consistently sized between 14-22 inches. They respond well to both flies and hardware, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Peak activity happens during spring and fall, but we catch quality rainbows year-round. What makes them special here is their condition – these fish are fat and healthy from feeding on abundant aquatic insects and small forage fish.
Brown Trout are the hunters of these waters, often lurking in deeper areas during the day and moving shallow to feed. They're notoriously smart and can be selective, but when you hook one, you're in for a fight. Browns in the 18-24 inch range are common, with some true trophies available for anglers who know where to look. Fall is prime time for browns as they become more active before winter, but we target them successfully throughout the season with the right presentations.
Cutthroat Trout bring that native Utah flavor to your fishing experience. These beautiful fish with their distinctive red slashes are scrappy fighters that punch above their weight class. They're typically found in mid-depth ranges and respond well to both nymphs and small streamers. Cutthroat are most active during cooler months, making spring and fall prime time for targeting these regional favorites.
Brook Trout might be the prettiest fish you'll catch all day, with their vibrant colors and delicate fins. While not as numerous as the other species, brooks show up in specific areas of both reservoirs. They tend to school up and can provide fast action once you locate them. These fish prefer cooler water and are most active during spring and early summer. Their smaller average size is made up for by their willingness to bite and stunning appearance.
Arctic Grayling are the wild card that makes every cast exciting. These unique fish with their sail-like dorsal fins are a true prize catch. They're not common, but both reservoirs hold populations that provide opportunities for dedicated anglers. Grayling prefer specific habitat conditions and are most active during certain times of year. When you hook one, you'll know immediately – their fighting style is unlike any other trout species, with quick runs and aerial displays that create lasting memories.
Look,
Thymallus ArcticusArctic grayling are truly unique with that massive sail-like dorsal fin covered in colorful spots - they look almost prehistoric. Most run 12-18 inches and put up a surprising fight for their size. These fish prefer cold, highly oxygenated water and you'll often find them in current areas or near inflows where oxygen levels are highest. Summer months from June through September offer the best action when they're actively feeding in shallower water. What guests love about grayling is their willingness to hit dry flies and their distinctive appearance - that dorsal fin is unmistakable. They're excellent eating too, with delicate white meat. The key trick I've found is using smaller presentations since their mouths are relatively small compared to trout, and don't be afraid to fish right on the surface.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrook trout are the jewels of cold water - small but absolutely gorgeous with their olive backs, yellow spots, and orange fins edged in white. Most run 8-14 inches, but don't let the size fool you - they're spirited fighters. Brookies need the coldest, cleanest water and stick to deeper areas during summer, moving shallow in spring and fall. They're incredibly structure-oriented, hiding around rocks, logs, and undercut banks. Early season right after ice-out is magic for brookies when they're hungry and aggressive. What makes them special is their beauty and the challenge - they're picky eaters in clear water. The meat is delicate and sweet, perfect for a shore lunch. My go-to trick: use small presentations and approach quietly - these fish spook easily but reward patience with some of the prettiest trout you'll ever catch.
Tylosurus AcusBrown trout are the crafty veterans of these waters - typically 14-24 inches and built like tanks. These golden-brown beauties with black spots are notorious for being selective feeders, especially the bigger ones. You'll find them around deeper structure during daylight, moving shallow to hunt at dawn and dusk. Fall is prime time when they get aggressive before spawning. Browns prefer cooler water temps and love hiding near fallen timber or rocky ledges. What draws anglers back is their legendary fight - they're strong, smart, and will use every trick to break you off. The meat is top-notch too, with a rich flavor that's hard to beat. Pro tip: if you're not getting hits on the usual stuff, try dragging a woolly bugger along the bottom near deep dropoffs.
Oncorhynchus ClarkiiCutthroat trout are Utah natives and absolutely stunning fish with those distinctive red slashes under their jaws. Size varies quite a bit here - you might catch 10-inchers or surprise yourself with a 20-inch bruiser. They're typically found in well-oxygenated areas near rocky bottoms and love hanging around inlet streams where fresh water flows in. Spring through early summer is peak season when they're most active in shallower water. Cutthroats are scrappy fighters and surprisingly willing to take flies, making them perfect for both spin and fly fishing. They're also fantastic table fare with sweet, firm meat. What I've learned fishing these reservoirs is that cutthroats often school up, so when you find one, work that area thoroughly - there's usually more around.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are the bread and butter of our reservoir fishing here. These beauties run 12-20 inches typically, with that signature pink stripe down their sides and plenty of fight when hooked. You'll find them cruising the cooler depths during summer months, moving shallow in spring and fall. They love structure - dropoffs, rocky points, and submerged timber. Best fishing happens early morning or evening when water temps hit that sweet spot around 60°F. What makes rainbows special is their acrobatic jumps and strong runs that'll test your drag. They're also excellent eating with firm, flaky meat. My local tip: when the water's calm, watch for subtle rises near the dam face - that's where the big ones hang out feeding on emerging insects.
Kamas, UT