Flaming Gorge Fishing Report (December 18-24, 2024)
Current Conditions
- Location: Flaming Gorge, Daggett County, UT
- Current Water Temperature: 37°F
- Weather Forecast (December 18-24, 2024):
- December 18: Clear, Max Temp: 44°F, Min Temp: 23°F, Wind: 8.5 mph
- December 19: Mostly Cloudy, Max Temp: 42°F, Min Temp: 23°F, Wind: 4.5 mph
- December 20: Partly Cloudy, Max Temp: 43°F, Min Temp: 23°F, Wind: 2.7 mph
- December 21: Partly Cloudy, Max Temp: 43°F, Min Temp: 24°F, Wind: 2.4 mph
- December 22: Mostly Cloudy, Max Temp: 41°F, Min Temp: 27°F, Wind: 4.8 mph
- December 23: Mostly Cloudy, Max Temp: 39°F, Min Temp: 28°F, Wind: 3.6 mph
- December 24: Mostly Cloudy, Max Temp: 37°F, Min Temp: 24°F, Wind: 8.5 mph
The fishing report for Flaming Gorge is updated daily to reflect changing conditions.
Key Fish Behavior
Trout
- Activity Levels: Trout are likely to exhibit moderate to high activity due to moderate temperatures and the waning gibbous moon phase. Expect more aggressive feeding as temperatures hover around 43°F.
- Preferred Locations: Focus on shallow areas with structures and cover, particularly around submerged logs or rocky outcrops. Areas near the mouths of streams where runoff brings in fresh nutrients can be promising.
- Behavioral Insights: As water temperatures fluctuate slightly, trout may be drawn to deeper waters during the warmer parts of the day. The slight increase in wind can mix the upper water layers, enhancing oxygen levels and stimulating feeding.
Bass
- Activity Levels: Bass are expected to be active, especially during early morning and late afternoon. Fluctuating conditions due to wind can result in changes to their feeding behavior.
- Preferred Locations: Target rocky points and the warmer areas of the lake, especially around sunlit shallow bays. Structures and drop-offs will hold bass during colder mornings.
- Behavioral Insights: Bass may respond well to varying techniques—try topwater lures early and switch to deeper, slower presentations as the day warms, particularly on windier days.
Perch
- Activity Levels: Perch should be active and schooling, making them more likely to be found in larger groups. They will tend to forage closer to the substrate during the colder parts of the day.
- Preferred Locations: Focus on areas with vegetation and structure in depths of 10-20 feet, especially around submerged features.
- Behavioral Insights: As temperatures stay cool, perch tend to become less active during the brightest parts of the day. Target them in the early morning and late evening for better success.
Summary of Fish Behavior Trends
Overall, trout, bass, and perch show patterns of moderate activity with slight variations based on species. The forecast suggests optimal fishing windows in the early morning and late afternoons, particularly on days with clearer skies or slight cloud cover. Look for common trends, such as trout and bass being most active around structure, while perch favor school-oriented environments.
Actionable Hotspot & Technique Advice
- Location Recommendations:
- Trout: Concentrate around the eastern side near shallow bays where the sun penetrates.
- Bass: Fish underwater points and riprap along the southern banks.
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Perch: Focus on areas with aquatic vegetation in 10 to 12 feet of water.
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Technique Suggestions:
- For Trout: Utilize spinners or small spoons, casting into current seams near structure.
- For Bass: Employ Texas rigged plastics or jigs near hard bottoms; pitch into cover with a heavier bait when wind picks up.
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For Perch: Use small jigs tipped with live bait or tiny spoons; vertical jigging can be productive in schools.
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Lure Recommendations:
- Trout: Gold or silver spoons (1/8 oz) and small inline spinners (size #2).
- Bass: Plastic worms (6-8 inches) for Texas rigs, or crankbaits near structures.
- Perch: Small jigs (1/16 oz) with soft plastics or live bait.
Optimal Fishing Windows
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Peak Hours: Expect the best activity from 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM. Fish are likely to respond better in lower light conditions.
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Weather Impact: Overcast days will enhance fish activity overall, leading to more consistent bites in the described periods.
Lure Pattern Suggestions
- Sequential Lure Strategy:
- Start with a topwater frog during low light.
- Transition to slower-moving crankbaits as the sun rises and temperatures stabilize.
- Utilize finesse techniques like drop shots or light jigs if action slows.
Adaptation Tips: If initial lures aren’t producing, switch to more aggressive presentations, as the transition in fishing patterns could require a shift in strategy.
Water Temperature Insights
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Temperature-Based Strategies: At 37°F, expect trout and perch to be somewhat lethargic, moving less and concentrating around specific structures. Bass may remain active but less aggressive.
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Technique Modifications: Focus on slower presentations, especially near structure and under low light; try deeper water as the day progresses, particularly for bass.
Weather Considerations:
- Wind: Fish windward sides where baitfish congregate. Adjust presentations accordingly.
- Temperature Changes: Monitor daily highs and lows; shifting temperatures will influence fish behavior patterns daily.
Tackle Recommendations
- Trout Tackle: Light to medium spinning gear with 6-8 lb test fluorocarbon line.
- Bass Tackle: Medium-heavy rods fitted with 10-14 lb braided line for casting in windy conditions.
- Perch Tackle: Ultra-light rods with 4-6 lb line for finesse presentations.
Additional Fishing Information
Local Regulations and Guidelines
- Fishing Seasons: Open year-round for trout, bass, and perch.
- Size and Catch Limits: Check local regulations; generally, there are size limits on larger trout, and daily limits of 5 for each species.
- Licensing Requirements: A valid Utah fishing license is required. Purchase online or at local stores.
Access Points and Facilities
- Boat Launch Locations: Main launch ramp at Flaming Gorge Dam area.
- Shore Access Points: Several public access areas on the north and south shores.
- Amenities: Nearby facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and bait shops.
Historical Fishing Data
- Past Fishing Success: Consistent success reported around submerged structures and recent vegetation regrowth areas.
- Seasonal Trends: Fish tend to move deeper as winter progresses, following baitfish aggregations.
Maps and GPS Coordinates
- Detailed Maps: Available at local ranger stations or online.
- GPS Coordinates: Recommended fishing spots:
- Trout Spot: 40.6932, -109.4582
- Bass Spot: 40.6890, -109.5147
- Perch Spot: 40.6885, -109.4719
Safety Reminders
- Weather Awareness: Stay updated on changing conditions. Equip your boat with life jackets and safety gear.
- Proper Gear: Dress in layers due to variable temperatures. Always carry a first aid kit and necessary tools.
- Local Regulations: Adhere to all fishing regulations and respect wildlife.
Have a great fishing excursion at Flaming Gorge! Wishing you successful catches!
