Directions: Take U-40 through Heber to Vernal, then U-191 north to the reservoir. Or, follow I-80 through Evanston, Wyo., to Mountain View, then south to Manila.
Description: This is a beautiful reservoir set in one of Utah's most unique geological areas. It is a thin, narrow reservoir about 90 miles long, with lots of side canyons and sheer rock walls. Has about 375 miles of shoreline and is 436-feet deep near dam. Surrounded by high-country forests of ponderosa and lodgepole pines.Fish: Lake Trout, Cutthroat, Brown, Rainbow, Kokanee Salmon, Smallmouth Bass, Crayfish, Catfish
What works: For larger lake trout (mackinaw) use leaded line or downriggers with Rapalas, flatfish or flasher with squid fly. Also try jigging with half- to one-ounce plastic or feather jigs. For smaller lakers and trout use baits -- worms, minnows, salmon eggs and Power Bait. Lures fishermen do well in the spring and fall with flies, wobblers and Rapalas. Also try trolling spinners and flatfish. Troll small, bright orange or red lures with snubbers for kokanee. Bass are hitting plastic grubs, Fat Gitzits and Rooster-tail spinners. Lures in crayfish colors work well.
Details: Fish deep -- between 70 and 125 feet -- for the large lake trout. Fish finder very valuable here. Smaller lakers and trout in shallow areas off shore in 20 to 30 feet of water. For bass cast into shore, or parallel to shoreline, and jig along the bottom. Fish will typically take lure on the fall. Best shore fishing is in bays around dam. Also try Sheep Creek, Squaw Hallow, Antelope Flats and Lucern bays. Best kokanee fishing is trolling in 40 to 70 feet of water around stateline area and King Fisher Island. Best time for lakers is during spawn in September and October.
Notes: Several nice campgrounds around lake, some accessible by boat only. Also the town of Dutch John and Manila offer food, services and accommodations. Some special limit requirements so check Utah proclamation carefully. A reciprocal stamp required by Utah fishermen fishing in Wyoming and visa versa. This is one of the most beautiful spots in state and offers wide range of recreational opportunities. Large herds of deer, elk, antelope and some Rocky Mountain sheep.