Anglers urged to look high, not low

This is the time of year when fishermen might consider turning their attention to the hundreds of high-elevation lakes and streams.

"The water levels at most high-elevation waters are much more stable than they are at lower and mid-elevations," said Tom Pettengill, sport fisheries coordinator for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

"The water level may decrease a few feet at high-elevation waters, instead of the tens of feet it may drop elsewhere."

Some of the higher spots could include Flaming Gorge, Scofield and Fish Lake, along with those lakes in the Uintas and Boulders.

Most of these smaller lakes don't fluctuate much because water isn't drawn from them for irrigation and other uses. They also receive more rain and snow than waters at lower elevations and lose less water to evaporation because of cooler temperatures.

Not much is needed to fish the smaller streams and lakes. A spinning rod and a bubble and a variety of lures or flies, or basic baits such as salmon eggs or worms, will work.

"The fish are usually feeding on small stuff, so if you're using spinners, I'd recommend a size 0 or 1," Pettengill said. "If you're using flies, I'd recommend sizes ranging from 16 to no bigger than 10."

One challenge to fishing these waters is getting there.

"You can drive right up to some of them, while others may require a hike of anywhere from one to several miles," Pettengill said. "Consider your physical limitations and be realistic about what you can do. Also, the weather in the high country can change quickly. Make sure a fleece jacket is included with the raingear in your backpack, and wear some good, waterproof boots for your hike."

One secret to high-country fishing is "moving." If there's no action in one spot or one lake, move to another.

"On the Uintas and Boulders, several lakes are fairly close to each other. And don't overlook the streams, which can provide some great fishing," he added.

During the middle of the summer, anglers should fish during the mornings and evenings, when the temperatures are the coolest and the fish are most active.

U.S. Forest Service offices are some of the best places to find maps for high elevation lakes and streams. The DWR has also published a series of "Lakes of the High Uintas" booklets. They may be purchased at the DNR Map & Bookstore, 1594 W. North Temple in Salt Lake City, and at most DWR offices.