Adventure

Guide to Capitol Reef
Fishing Areas

From trophy brook trout in alpine lakes to world-class big game in the desert.

Overview
Capitol Reef Country’s lakes and streams offer some of the most rewarding fishing and hunting in Utah. The region is a rare landscape where you can fly-fish for wild browns in the Fremont River and then climb to 11,000 feet on Boulder Mountain to find over 80 high-alpine lakes teeming with trout. For hunters, the Henry Mountains and Boulder Plateau provide opportunities for legendary mule deer and healthy elk herds in one of the state's most rugged and beautiful settings.
Skill Level Beginner to Expert
Best Season Spring & Fall
Duration Half to multi-day

Guides & Gear

Whether you need a local fly-fishing guide to unlock the secrets of the Fremont River or a combination license to explore the backcountry, Wayne County has the resources you need for a successful trip.
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Crowd Favorite Fishing Spots

Gotta catch em' all!
TROPHY FISHING / ICONIC

Boulder Mountain Lakes

  • Best For: Brook and Rainbow trout.

  • Terrain: High-altitude plateau with 80+ lakes & ponds.

Home to some of the largest brook trout ever caught in the U.S.. Access ranges from roadside docks to remote 4x4-only lakes.
Scenic / Moderate

The Fremont River

  • Best For: Wild brown and hearty rainbow trout.

  • Terrain: High-speed tailwaters and marshy bottoms.

The upper and lower sections provide diverse challenges for fly anglers. Clear waters near Torrey are famous for large, catchable trout.

Trophy / Deep Water

Fishlake

  • Best For: Massive Lake Trout and Splake

  • Terrain: Utah's largest mountain lake at 8,800 ft

Dive into the depths of Utah’s premier high-alpine fishery. Known for producing massive Lake Trout that can exceed 30 pounds, Fish Lake offers a true deep-water challenge. Whether you’re trolling the "Twin Creeks" area or jigging through the ice, it’s the ultimate destination for serious trophy seekers.

Why Fish in Capitol Reef Country?

From alpine lakes to desert peaks—experience the most diverse sporting landscape in the West.

Diverse Species & Altitudes

Cast for trout in an alpine forest at 11,000 feet in the morning, then head to the desert floor for smallmouth bass at Lake Powell by the afternoon.

Untouched Solitude

Unlike more crowded regions, Capitol Reef Country offers a sense of expansiveness where you can often spend a day on a stream or in the field without seeing another soul.

Common Questions about Fishing & Hunting in Capitol Reef

Ready for an Adventure?

Find hiking guides and outfitters in Capitol Reef Country to get geared up and explore the greatest scenery in Utah.

Fremont River Guides & Fly Shop

Experienced fly-fishing guides and a full fly shop.
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The Quiet Fly Fisher Guide

A small local guide service specializing in fly fishing.
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