From the majestic High Uintas to the Wasatch Range to the red rocks down south, the whole state of Utah offers spectacular scenery for your next fishing adventure. Popular reservoirs such as Pineview, Deer Creek, East Canyon, and Strawberry are some of the most popular fishing lakes in the northern half of the state, many with multiple boat ramps and excellent shoreline catches as well. Some of these are open year-round because of superb ice fishing. Among what you’ll find in the northern reservoirs are small and largemouth bass, bluegill, tiger muskie, black bullhead catfish, crappie, and yellow perch. Other gorgeous reservoirs and lakes near the High Uintas include Flaming Gorge, Spirit Lake, and Mirror Lake.

The most postcard-worthy places up north, however, tend to be the rivers and their tributaries of the state’s Alpine region. Picture “A River Runs through It,” and that’s a good visual for capturing fly fishing on the Bear, Ogden, Provo, and Weber Rivers. Mountains and mountain valleys play host to these sparkling waters as well as hundreds of mountain lakes, full of several varieties of trout.

Heading to central or southern Utah? No shortage of fishing there, either. Fish the Colorado River or the southern end of the Green or head into the mountains and Fish Lake National Forest where anglers and campers love to hide out for several days at a time. Boulder Mountain has more than 50 lakes and ponds alone, but getting there is half the fun. A rugged ride is definitely required to wind your way into the middle of nowhere surrounded by forests and wildlife. Rent a boat or reserve a guide to take you on Lake Powell for some of the country’s best bass fishing. Trophy catches are not uncommon in this giant lake in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area that straddles Utah and Arizona.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) make it a priority to manage many of these and preserve healthy waters by producing and stocking many species of quality fish and rooting out invasive species. DWR also makes fishing licenses affordable and hosts a free fishing day, annually. Their office is one of the best resources to find the right type of fishing.