The Upper Provo River falls from about 10,000 feet in the High Uintas, leaving an at times deep and rocky canyon through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Being a freestone river, the Upper Provo provides more adventurous anglers exceptional dry fly fishing opportunities once spring runoff resides—as well as the opportunity to ply their skills at everything from technical pocket water and shallow riffles to deep rock-lined runs and beaver ponds. If you’re planning to fish this rugged and scenic river, be sure to stop by the Fishwest Fly Shop in Kamas for the latest info on river conditions and hatches.
Public access is limited to the portion of the river within National Forest boundaries, with multiple access points easily accessible along the Mirror Lake Highway (UT 150) near Kamas. Once the Upper Provo exits public land, it flows primarily through private land, with only a few opportunities for public access with walk-in access authorization between the Utah DWR and landowner. To get authorized with a WIA Number or for more information on Walk-in Access please visit Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
As a high-elevation freestone river, the Upper Provo spends its winters locked in snow. By spring, high runoff is the norm until flows reside come late June or mid July. Summer dry fly fishing on the Upper Provo can be exceptional, with opportunistic trout eager to rise for big dries, stoneflies, and hopper patterns. The Upper Provo remains fishable well into fall most years; although, July to September are the best months to fish this high-mountain river. Keep in mind to let this river rest if flows are low and those water temps are consistently above 68 degrees.
Updated by Travis Vernon 9.4.26
There will be a lot of pressure over this last big holiday weekend so be prepared. There are a lot of people up there now but you can still hike and get away.
Make sure to keep your kit ready with a warm layer, and a solid packable rain shell. Torrential rains and hail have been part of the program almost daily for the last couple weeks.
The water temps in the high country are back within a great range after a few weeks of hot temps. However, the upper is quite low which is making for some tough fishing conditions and spooky fish. Smaller dry flies are the ticket right now. Smaller Mayflies, Caddis, and Ants will produce the best results as long as you can land the fly softly.
Who knows how much longer this warmer weather will last so get out and have some fun.
Fly Selection on the Upper Provo does not vary much during the summer. Consider trying the following:
