Person fly fishing in a river at sunset with bare trees and clouds in the sky. Person fly fishing in a river at sunset with bare trees and clouds in the sky.
Current Fishing Report:

The Middle Provo River

Middle Provo River

Recognized as one of Utah’s premier Blue Ribbon Fisheries, the Middle Provo River delivers a dynamic and rewarding fly fishing experience throughout the season. Its nutrient-rich flows produce prolific hatches, highlighted by the early spring emergence of the famed Buffalo Midge, followed by consistent Blue Winged Olives, Pale Morning Duns, and the legendary Green Drake hatch. With reliable dry fly action, technical presentations, and exceptional trout density, the Middle Provo has earned its place as a true bucket-list destination for anglers seeking both challenge and opportunity.

Flowing through the scenic mountains near Park City and Heber Valley,this tailwater provides easy river access and consistent fly fishing throughout the year and is known for being home to highly selective trout that will test even the most experienced anglers’ patience.

As a tailwater, the Middle Provo often requires light tippets, small flies, and precise presentations—don’t be surprised if you throw your entire box to a rising trout on this section of the Provo! Given its status as a Blue Ribbon Fishery and proximity to multiple metropolitan areas, anglers can expect busy trailheads, but there’s plenty of water to fish for those willing to walk.

Access

The Middle Provo stretches from Jordanelle Reservoir at the head of the Heber Valley down to Deer Creek Reservoir at the toe of the valley. This 13-mile stretch of river runs primarily through private land, but through the Provo River Restoration Project a 800- to 2,200- foot-wide public corridor grants anglers easy access to the river. Seven public parking areas with garbage services and restrooms are available throughout Heber and Charleston.

Guide Tips & Current Hatches

Midges are the name of the game for the next few months on our local tailwaters. These hatches are always changing so be ready to throw a streamer, nymph rig, or a soft hackle if the days hatch is less than ideal.

Due to the lack of snow, there are more anglers out enjoying the water these days. Please remember to be kind and courteous to your fellow anglers. There is plenty of water for everyone. A little bit of time hiking the river is sure to produce some solitude.

Current Conditions

Updated by Travis Vernon & Kurt Dorenkamp

As of Today, (3.6) the Middle Provo is currently flowing 141 CFS out of the Jordanelle Dam.

Conditions on the Middle Provo are quite good right now. We are seeing typical Winter flows for the river. We have been seeing fish mainly in slower, deeper runs and pools and periodically in deeper pockets. This should be cosistent for the next couple of weeks.

The "Buffalo" midges are starting to appear here and there, so make sure to have a variety of midge paterns ranging from #20 - #24 should you encounter a hatch which typically happens during the warmest part of the day in early afternoon.

Nymph fishing is still going to produce the most consistent of results during the day when fish are not actively feeding. Consider using a vareity of small midges, and attractor nymphs to find success.

Recommended Flies:

  • Mayhem - Black / Olive - Size 20-24
  • Zebra Midge - Black - Size 22-24
  • Tailwater Sowbug - Size 18-20
  • KF Flasher - Olive/Black - Size 20-22
  • Bling Midge - Black/Charcoal - Size 22-24
  • RS2 - Black/Olive/Grey - Size 22-24
  • Juju Baetis -Black/Olive - Size 20-22
  • Darth Baetis - Olive - Size 22-24
  • Morgan's Midge - Size 20-22
  • Zelon Midge - Size 20-22
  • CDC Cluster Midge Size 22-24

Current Flows: