Middle Provo River Fly Fishing Info

As one of the many well-known Blue Ribbon Fisheries in Utah, the Middle Provo provides a well-rounded, quality fishing experience with prolific Mayfly hatches, such as the prominent Blue Winged Olive (BWO) hatches, Pale Morning Dun (PMD), and famous Green Drake hatch, making the Middle Provo River a bucket-list river for many anglers.

Released from the Jordanelle Reservoir, 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. To find out more on Utah Blue Ribbon Fisheries, please visit wildlife.utah.gov/blueribbon.

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. The Middle Provo is also just 20 minutes from the Fishwest Fly Shop in Kamas, UT, so be sure to stop by for the most up-to-date info on effective fly patterns and river conditions.

When to Fish

The Middle Provo River is known for consistently good fishing throughout the year. As a tailwater, seasonal flows remain fairly consistent with the exception of run off season late May - early July, which is all weather and snow melt dependent, make sure to check flows whereas increasingly high or a sudden jump in the dam release can make crossing unsafe or impossible.

Summer is by far the most popular time to fish the Middle Provo, with early spring being a close contender. The Middle Provo remains productive throughout the fall and winter months, with streamers and midges being productive flies during those times. Stop by the shop for the most up-to-date fishing reports.

Current Conditions:

  • As of today, (6/29/23) the river is 650 CFS out of Jordanelle and 865 at River Road Bridge.
  • Water is dropping (Finally!) but it will still be a little while before bugs start hatching full force. These flows are still a little on the high end so fish closer to the banks, in side channels, and try to find soft water.
  • Current Patterns: Nymph fishing will be the most productive on San Juan Worms, Sow Bugs, Midges, and attractor nymphs like the Frenchie, Duracell Jig, or Mayhem. For those who dont like to nymph fish, streamer fishing is also highly recommended.

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Fishing Regulations

Fishing is restricted to artificial flies and lures only throughout the Middle Provo.

Streamflow Data

Jordanelle Dam Release

Middle Provo River at River Road Bridge
Note: Streamflow is measured by Cubic Feet Per Second (CFS).