Provo, UT

Provo is a dream town for anglers, tucked between the towering Wasatch Mountains and the expansive Utah Lake. With the famed Provo River flowing right through town, stocked ponds in city parks, and reservoirs just up the canyon, it’s no surprise this area is considered one of Utah’s fishing hubs. Whether you’re chasing browns on a dry fly, tossing crankbaits from a kayak, or relaxing by a shaded pond with the kids, Provo offers fishing options as varied as the landscape itself.

Provo River (Below Deer Creek Dam – Lower Provo)

A blue-ribbon tailwater fishery flowing through Provo Canyon, the Lower Provo is loaded with big brown and rainbow trout. Nymphing is the go-to technique here, though summer evenings bring epic dry fly hatches. Access is excellent, with paved trails and riverside parking throughout.

Utah Lake (Lakeshore Drive Access)

One of the largest freshwater lakes in the western U.S., Utah Lake is a warmwater fishery known for channel catfish, white bass, walleye, and carp. Cast from the rocky shorelines or launch a small boat or kayak to reach deeper water and river mouths. Best in late spring through fall.

Bicentennial Park Pond

A small neighborhood pond regularly stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and catfish. Perfect for families or a quick fishing break, with paved paths and benches surrounding the water. Trout bite well after spring and fall stocking, especially on bait or small spinners.

Deer Creek Reservoir (Deer Creek State Park)

Just 25 minutes northeast of town, this deep reservoir offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye. Troll deep diving crankbaits or jig near points and coves. Wind can be a challenge, but the fishery is consistent and the views are spectacular.