For dedicated anglers, fishing doesn't end when the lakes freeze over. Several reservoirs that surround Heber Valley develop a thick sheet of surface ice during winter and offer some fantastic ice fishing. An added bonus is the number of sunny, warm days that typify Heber Valley in the winter. Pack your fishing gear, an ice augur, a lawn chair, and head for the ice! Remember to always check the current Utah fishing proclamation for special regulations on all area waters.
Strawberry Reservoir
Retreat to the mountains for a little Utah ice fishing on Strawberry Reservoir. Success catching large cutthroat trout is high and a few skilled anglers may even hook onto a kokanee salmon. Winter access is from Highway 40 on the north shore of the reservoir or from the West Side Road to Strawberry Bay Marina. The marina has facilities open year-round including a lodge for overnight stays. The Soldier Creek side of the reservoir is accessible by snowmobile from two plowed parking areas on Highway 40. For current information on ice conditions at Strawberry, contact the Heber Ranger District at 435-654-0470.
Deer Creek Reservoir
At the base of scenic Mount Timpanogos, Deer Creek Reservoir offers some of the best ice fishing in the area. Anglers enjoy fishing for rainbow and brown trout, perch, walleye, and smallmouth bass. Winter access to Deer Creek is primarily from Highway 189, southwest of Heber. Parking areas are plowed and restrooms are available at both entrances to the park. For current information on ice conditions, contact Deer Creek State Park at 435-654-0171.
Jordanelle Reservoir
Just minutes from Heber, the new Jordanelle Reservoir is quickly becoming a popular destination for ice fishing. Rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout, along with smallmouth bass are all well stocked in Jordanelle Reservoir. Primary access is at Hailstone on Highway 40 north of Heber. Parking is plowed, restrooms are available, and the visitor center is open year-round. For current information on ice conditions, contact Jordanelle State Park at 435-649-9540.
