The Provo originates high in the Uinta Mountains; it is collected at Jordanelle and Deer Creek reservoirs before arriving at its destination, Utah Lake. Most of the river is open to artificial flies and lures only and regulations are strict on limits. Be sure to consult the current Utah fishing proclamation for details.
In the Heber Valley vicinity, the Provo River is primarily a fly-fishing stream and is one of the most popular in the State of Utah. Anglers can be found year-round trying their luck on the lower Provo River below Deer Creek Dam. Numerous pullouts along US Hwy 189 through scenic Provo Canyon provide access to the river. Long stretches of flat water give anglers an excellent chance of catching good-sized brown, rainbow and cutthroat trout.
From Jordanelle Reservoir to Deer Creek Reservoir, the Provo River flows through Heber Valley and is a local fishing favorite. Brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout are the primary species on this stretch of the river. Access can be found at Charleston Bridge in Charleston, along Midway Lane between Heber and Midway, downstream from Highway 40 near Midway junction, and below Jordanelle Dam. Much of the Provo River through Heber Valley passes through private property. Remember to respect the rights of landowners and do not trespass.
Above Jordanelle Reservoir, much of the river passes through private property as well, but there is public access at Rock Cliff recreation area, located on the east shore of Jordanelle Reservoir, and east of Woodland on Highway 35. The Provo River flows through Rock Cliff recreation area before it enters Jordanelle Reservoir where parking, day-use areas, and restrooms are provided. Follow State Route 32 north and east of Heber to reach Rock Cliff. To reach the river near Woodland, follow US Hwy 35 east from Francis. Beyond Woodland, the Provo River follows US Hwy 35 upstream and several pullouts along the road access some top-notch fishing for brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
At the confluence with the South Fork of the Provo, fishing regulations change. The upper Provo River and the South Fork are generally open to full bag limits and the restriction on artificial flies and lures are lifted. Double-check the current Utah fishing proclamation for any changes in regulations. The upper Provo River can best be accessed along the scenic Mirror Lake Highway 150 east of Kamas. The South Fork of the Provo continues to follow US Hwy 35 east of Woodland toward Wolf Creek Pass.