10 Best Lakes in Utah for Fishing, Boating, and Relaxing

Utah offers versatile natural beauty, with an array of lakes that provide fantastic recreational activities.

For adventurers and vacationers alike, Utah’s lakes offer the perfect combination of scenic beauty and outdoor fun.

Let us talk about them.

10. Lake Powell

Located on the border between southern Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell is one of the largest and most famous lakes in the region.

Its vibrant red rock canyons and calm waters make it an ideal destination for boating, fishing, and water sports enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the stunning Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural arches, by boat or kayak.

The lake’s clear waters attract those seeking excitement, including houseboat rentals and pontoon boats, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

Lake Powell is also a favorite for fishing, known for species like bass, catfish, and walleye.

Its calm, expansive surface offers perfect conditions for:

• Wakeboarding
• Waterskiing
• Tubing

Along its shores, you can find petroglyphs left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans, some of which are thousands of years old.

One lesser-known attraction is Reflection Canyon, a breathtaking and remote spot best viewed from above.

For those looking for a unique underwater adventure, Lake Powell has several sunken boats and even a small submerged town, Hite, which can sometimes be seen when water levels drop.

9. Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Flaming Gorge Reservoir, located on the Utah-Wyoming border, is a spectacular spot for boating, fishing, camping, and even scuba diving.

Its deep waters are home to lake trout, including record-breaking catches that draw anglers from all over the country.

The surrounding scenic canyons and cliffs offer dramatic views, making it a favorite for sightseers.

In addition to fishing, Flaming Gorge is a great location for all types of watercraft, from small kayaks to large houseboats.

Camping along the shoreline allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature, with the opportunity to hike and explore nearby trails.

The area surrounding the reservoir is home to one of the largest populations of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.

You might also spot moose, deer, and eagles along the shoreline.

For history buffs, the John Jarvie Historic Ranch is located nearby. It offers a glimpse into the life of early settlers who lived in the region during the late 1800s.

8. Bear Lake

Known as “The Caribbean of the Rockies” for its striking turquoise waters, Bear Lake is located in northeastern Utah and extends into Idaho.

The lake’s crystal-clear waters provide excellent conditions for water sports, such as wakeboarding and jet skiing, as well as for a relaxing day on its sandy beaches.

Bear Lake is also a prime destination for fishing, offering opportunities to catch Bonneville cutthroat trout and whitefish.

The lake’s natural beauty and recreational activities make it a popular spot for families looking to enjoy the outdoors, whether for a weekend trip or a summer vacation.

Bear Lake is often associated with the legend of the Bear Lake Monster—a creature similar to Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster.

While there’s no solid evidence of its existence, it’s a fun piece of folklore that adds mystery to the lake.

On a more practical note, Bear Lake is one of the best places in Utah for fresh raspberry shakes.

The surrounding area, especially Garden City, is famous for its raspberry farms.

If you visit in late July or early August, you can enjoy the Bear Lake Raspberry Days Festival, featuring live music, craft fairs, and, of course, plenty of raspberry treats.

7. Strawberry Reservoir

Strawberry Reservoir, southeast of Heber, is renowned as one of Utah’s top fishing destinations. Anglers flock to its waters to catch rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and cutthroat trout.

With fishing being excellent year-round, including ice fishing in the winter, Strawberry offers a pleasant experience in all seasons.

Boating is also popular on the reservoir, with pontoon rentals available for a leisurely day out on the water.

The scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains enhances the overall experience, making Strawberry Reservoir a beautiful and relaxing getaway for anyone seeking outdoor recreation.

Strawberry Reservoir is home to one of Utah’s most successful fish hatcheries.

The Strawberry River, which feeds into the reservoir, is a prime location for catching large cutthroat trout, and many trophy-sized fish are caught here annually.

During the winter, the lake transforms into an ice-fishing paradise, attracting anglers from across the state.

A little insider tip—early mornings in late fall tend to offer some of the best fishing conditions, as the fish come closer to the surface to feed.

6. Deer Creek Reservoir

Located near Provo and Salt Lake City, Deer Creek Reservoir is a convenient destination for locals and tourists alike.

Surrounded by the majestic Uinta Mountains, the lake offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, water sports, and even zip-lining.

Deer Creek is well-known for kiteboarding and wakeboarding, thanks to its steady winds and calm waters.

Fishermen can enjoy catching species like rainbow trout, bass, and perch. Its proximity to urban centers makes it an ideal day-trip location for those seeking adventure without traveling far.

The lake’s proximity to Heber Valley means visitors can combine their lake trip with a ride on the Heber Valley Railroad, a historic scenic train journey that offers stunning views of the mountains and countryside.

5. Utah Lake

Utah Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Utah, is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Located near Provo, it is easily accessible for residents of the Provo-Orem metropolitan area. The lake’s warm, shallow waters make it perfect for various water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Anglers can expect to catch species such as bass, catfish, and walleye, while birdwatchers can enjoy spotting bald eagles and pelicans.

Utah Lake offers plenty of shoreline for relaxing, as well as opportunities for camping and picnicking along its banks.

It was a vital resource for the Ute Native American tribes, who relied on its fish for sustenance.

Early pioneers also depended on the lake, though overfishing and environmental changes have affected its ecosystem over time.

In recent years, there have been restoration efforts aimed at revitalizing Utah Lake’s ecosystem, including water quality improvements and the reintroduction of native fish species.

If you visit, check out Lincoln Beach—a lesser-known yet peaceful area with great fishing opportunities.

4. Pineview Reservoir

Nestled in northern Utah near Ogden, Pineview Reservoir is a serene lake surrounded by lush mountains. It is a hotspot for boating, water skiing, and wakeboarding, with calm waters ideal for all types of water activities.

The sandy beaches along the reservoir offer a perfect place for sunbathing and relaxation.

Pineview is also known for its fishing, particularly for tiger muskie, bass, and trout.

The scenic mountain backdrop adds to its appeal, making Pineview Reservoir a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the city while enjoying outdoor fun.

Pineview is famous for tiger muskie fishing—these massive, predatory fish can grow over 40 inches long and put up an intense fight.

If you’re an angler looking for a challenge, Pineview is one of the few lakes in Utah where you can catch tiger muskie.

For those looking for something different, the Huntsville area, near the reservoir, is home to a quirky and historic bar called The Shooting Star Saloon—the oldest continuously operating saloon in Utah.

It’s a fun stop if you want to grab a bite and experience some local history.

3. Willard Bay Reservoir

Willard Bay Reservoir, located near the Great Salt Lake, is a freshwater reservoir popular for boating, jet skiing, and fishing. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, with bald eagles and loons frequently spotted along the shores.

The lake’s sandy beaches also make it a great destination for family outings and picnics.

Anglers at Willard Bay can fish for catfish, walleye, and wiper.

Calm waters and scenic surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all kinds of recreational activities, making it a popular destination in northern Utah.

Willard Bay is unique because it was originally part of the Great Salt Lake before being turned into a freshwater reservoir.

Due to this, the area has a rich birdwatching scene, with frequent sightings of bald eagles and migratory birds that stop here throughout the year.

Camping at Willard Bay is also a treat, as the state park offers both primitive and RV-friendly campsites, making it a great weekend getaway just a short drive from Salt Lake City.

2. Jordanelle Reservoir

Situated near Heber City in central Utah, Jordanelle Reservoir is a popular spot for family-friendly activities.

The lake is surrounded by scenic mountains, providing beautiful views while enjoying boating, water sports, or wildlife viewing.

Boaters can enjoy jet skiing, paddleboarding, and other water sports, while fishermen can expect to catch trout and bass.

The peaceful setting and variety of activities make Jordanelle an ideal location for both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing day on the water.

The surrounding wetlands are home to deer, moose, and various bird species, making it a favorite for nature photographers.

Because of its proximity to Park City, visitors can mix lake activities with the charm of a mountain town.

After a day on the water, you can explore Park City’s historic Main Street, visit the Utah Olympic Park, or try some of the amazing local restaurants.

1. Sand Hollow Reservoir

Located in southern Utah near St. George, Sand Hollow Reservoir offers year-round recreational activities.

The lake’s clear waters are perfect for boating, kayaking, and even snorkeling or scuba diving. Sand Hollow is also famous for its nearby sand dunes, offering off-road ATV riding.

The red rock landscapes surrounding the reservoir create a striking contrast against the blue waters, making it a visually stunning destination.

Whether visitors are looking for adventure on the dunes or water, Sand Hollow provides a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Sand Hollow is one of the few places in Utah where you can seamlessly transition from water to desert adventure.

Just minutes away from the reservoir are the Sand Mountain dunes, a paradise for ATV riders and off-road enthusiasts.

One hidden gem is “The Jumping Rock,” a natural rock formation where visitors can leap into the deep blue waters of Sand Hollow.

It’s a favorite among thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush.

The lake is also one of the warmest in Utah, thanks to its southern location, making it a great spot for early spring and late fall water activities when other lakes are still too cold.

FAQs

The Bottom Line

Each of these Utah lakes has its own draw. Some are perfect for fishing, others for boating, and a few are just ideal for relaxing by the water.

No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a lake here that fits the bill.

It’s not about rushing around or ticking off a list, it’s about finding a spot that feels right for you and making the most of it.

Take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and let the natural beauty around you do the rest.