While many associate salmon with oceans or coastal rivers, a specific type thrives in Utah’s freshwater systems, offering opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and anglers.
The Salmon Story in Utah
The species found in Utah is the Kokanee salmon, a landlocked variant of the Pacific Sockeye salmon ( Oncorhynchus nerka ). These fish were first introduced to the state in 1922 when 250,000 fry were brought from Washington State. The initial stocking occurred in Bear Lake in 1923, and subsequent introductions helped establish populations in other reservoirs across Utah.
For most of their lives, Kokanee appear silvery-blue. As their spawning season approaches in the fall of their final year, they undergo a remarkable transformation, turning a vibrant red. Males also develop a distinct humped back and a hooked jaw during this period.
Kokanee salmon typically live for three to four years, completing their life cycle after spawning. In Utah, eggs hatch between November and January, with tiny fry emerging in the spring. These young salmon spend the next two to four years in the open waters of the lakes, primarily feeding on zooplankton. They then return to the streams or gravel beds where they were born to reproduce.
Where to Find Utah’s Salmon
Kokanee salmon have been successfully established in numerous lakes and reservoirs throughout Utah, providing locations for viewing and fishing. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, located in northeastern Utah, is home to one of the largest Kokanee populations. Strawberry Reservoir, a popular spot in central Utah, also supports a strong Kokanee population.
Fish Lake in Sevier County maintains a Kokanee presence, introduced by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Jordanelle Reservoir, near Park City, offers Kokanee fishing opportunities, with the Provo River serving as a spawning ground for these fish.
Other notable waters include:
Electric Lake
Causey Reservoir
Moon Lake
Starvation Reservoir
East Canyon Reservoir
Porcupine Reservoir
Smith and Morehouse Reservoir
Stateline Reservoir
During the fall spawning runs, specific viewing areas like Sheep Creek at Flaming Gorge, Twin Creeks at Fish Lake, and the Little Bear River at Porcupine Reservoir become popular for observing the red salmon.
Fishing for Salmon in Utah
Anglers interested in pursuing Kokanee salmon in Utah find that different times of the year offer varied fishing experiences. Kokanee feed actively during the spring and early summer, from May through June.
During the warmer summer months of July and August, Kokanee often reside in cooler, deeper parts of the lakes, making trolling an effective method. Trolling with downriggers or lead-core line helps present lures at the specific depths where the fish are schooling.
As fall approaches, particularly from September into October, Kokanee salmon undertake their spawning migration. While largest, they cease feeding, making traditional bait fishing less effective. Anglers often resort to methods that provoke a reaction strike, such as jigging with lures like pink marabou jigs or squirmy worms.
Anglers should consult the current Utah Fishing Guidebook published by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) for specific regulations. Statewide, the possession of Kokanee salmon is prohibited from September 10 through November 30 to protect the spawning population. Additionally, some rivers and their tributaries feeding into reservoirs may have complete fishing closures during the spawning season, such as certain parts of Strawberry, Causey, and Porcupine. The DWR clarifies that the statewide limit for trout and Kokanee salmon combined is four fish, with specific variations for certain waters.