Fishing better now that drought's over

With drought conditions over and several hatcheries coming back on line, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is bragging about some of the best fishing opportunities in years. Colder spring weather has helped maintain great shoreline trout action at mid-elevation waters. Warm-water species will become more active as temperatures rise. (Fishing licences are available at sporting goods stores, supermarket customer service desks and online at secure.utah.gov/hflo.)

American Fork River — This water tends to run high though midsummer but can provide some great fishing. Brown, brook and rainbow trout can be caught with a variety of baits, lures and flies. Dry flies and sinking flies will usually catch brown trout while worms and powerbait will arouse rainbows.

Tibble Fork Reservoir in American Fork Canyon — Probably one of the most popular family fisheries in northern Utah County, this is a beautiful green impoundment, offering brown trout and catchable rainbow trout. All baits are effective.

Pittsburg Lake — A wonderful midsummer destination if you don't mind hiking a fairly steep trail full of loose rocks. This pristine water is inhabited by wary brook trout, which can be taken with a variety of baits and flies. This area will likely not be clear of snow until at least mid-June.

Utah Lake — A popular water for largemouth bass, bluegill, white bass, walleye, black bullhead catfish and channel catfish. Good locations include Utah Lake State Park, Lindon Boat Harbor, Bird Island, Lincoln Beach near Spanish Fork or the outlet near the Jordan River. Best catfish baits include night crawlers, chicken livers, shrimp, minnows or dough mixtures of flour, Limburger cheese and a little ground beef.

Jordan River — Many anglers enjoy fishing along the banks of the Jordan River, hoping to hook monster channel catfish. Moonlit nights will often bring dedicated anglers out. Baits and techniques are similar to those on Utah Lake. Anglers also have opportunities to catch bass, walleye and an occasional trout in this water.

Provo River — One of Utah's most popular blue ribbon fly-fishing waters, the Provo River offers spectacular opportunities for large brown trout. Whitefish, rainbow trout, walleye and white bass can be caught in lower sections of this river, just above Utah Lake.

Deer Creek Reservoir — Many opportunities await anglers seeking brown trout, rainbow trout, walleye, yellow perch, large and smallmouth bass. Warm water fishing is great along the shores, where vegetation offers plenty of cover. Healthy 18-inch rainbows are not uncommon.