Fishing secrets for summertime anglers

What's the secret to catching fish when the weather gets hot?

It basically comes down to the species of fish and where and when you decide to fish.

In the spring and fall, the temperatures are at the range most of Utah's sport fish prefer. In the spring and fall, anglers usually find fish in and near the surface waters. As the temperature gets higher, the fish move to areas that have the temperature range they prefer in deeper waters or into sheltered areas or cool inlets.

Cold-water fish, such as rainbow, cutthroat and other trout, are the first to move into the surface waters in the spring. They're also the first to move out of the surface waters as the summer progresses. They usually seek water temperatures that are between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bass, bluegill and yellow perch are considered warm-water fish because they prefer water temperatures in the 60s and 70s. As trout start to go deep to avoid the warmer surface waters, warm-water fish are just starting to get active.

Elevation plays a role because it affects the temperature of the water. During the summer, the water and air at high-elevation lakes and streams can be 20 to 30 degrees cooler than at waters in the valley. This factor allows anglers to use elevation to find a water that has the type of fish you want to catch. For example, if you prefer fishing for cold-water fish, go up in elevation and try fishing a mountain lake or stream.

Time also plays a big role in finding fish. Fish often wait in the deeper water for the heat of the day to pass. Once the temperature lowers, they move into the shallows or surface waters to feed. At night and early in the morning, when the water is the coolest, can be great times to fish. The fish will be actively feeding in the shallower waters, and that will make them more accessible.