Fly Fishing Gear for Utah
The Provo, the Green, and the alpine lakes that make it all worth it.
Utah is fly fishing country. The Middle Provo alone holds more trout per mile than almost any river in the lower 48. Add the Green River below Flaming Gorge, the alpine lakes of the Uintas, and a dozen smaller streams — you could fish a lifetime and never leave the state.
The Rod
A 9-foot, 5-weight is the Utah standard. It handles the Provo's technical dry-fly fishing, throws streamers for big browns on the Green, and is light enough for high-mountain cutthroats. If you only own one fly rod in Utah, make it a 9' 5wt.
The Reel
For most Utah trout, the reel is a line holder — you're stripping line, not fighting fish off the reel. A die-cast or machined reel in 4-6 weight with a smooth drag is all you need. Spend your money on the rod and line instead.
Line and Leader
Weight-forward floating line matched to your rod weight. For the Provo, taper your leader to 5X or 6X — these trout see a lot of flies. The Green can handle 4X. Add fluorocarbon tippet for spooky fish in clear water.
Wading Gear
Breathable chest waders with stocking feet and wading boots (felt or rubber with studs — the Provo is slick). In summer, wet-wading with quick-dry pants and neoprene socks inside your boots is more comfortable. Don't forget a wading staff — the Provo has broken more anglers than any fish in it.
The Fly Box
- Dry flies: Elk Hair Caddis (14-18), Parachute Adams (16-20), Griffith's Gnat (18-22), PMD (16-18)
- Nymphs: Pheasant Tail (16-20), Hare's Ear (14-18), Zebra Midge (18-22), Sowbug (16-18)
- Streamers: Woolly Bugger (olive/black, size 6-10), Zonker (size 4-8), Sculpzilla (size 4-6)