Fishing Report for Flaming Gorge, UT – Daggett County Lake

Date: September 16, 2024 – September 23, 2024

Current Conditions

Water Temperature: 66°F
Current Conditions: Mostly Clear
Fishing Report Updated Daily
Target Species: Rainbow trout, Brown trout, Lake trout, Smallmouth bass, Perch

7-Day Weather Forecast Summary

Overview:

Highs: 66°F to 73°F
Lows: 44°F to 54°F
Wind: Ranging from 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph on certain days.
Precipitation: Light drizzle expected on September 17; clear skies on the other days.

Weather Impact:

Trout: Increased activity likely during cooler mornings and late afternoons, specifically before weather changes and after light rain.
Bass: Will be more aggressive after drizzly conditions; ideal feeding times are expected in overcast conditions.
Perch: Likely to follow schools of baitfish concentrated in deeper waters after rain.

Fish Behavior Insights

Trout

Activity Levels: Peaks in activity will occur before and after brief rain spells, typical for trout feeding.
Preferred Locations: Concentrate efforts at submerged structures, rocky banks, and mouth of feeder streams during cooler parts of the day.
Behavioral Insights: Trout will move into shallower areas as the temperature drops. Expect aggression to increase with minor weather changes—ideal for spinning gear.

Bass

Activity Levels: Bass feeding will increase significantly during cloudy conditions and following rain.
Preferred Locations: Focus on windward banks, near submerged logs, and rocky outcrops.
Behavioral Insights: Topwater lures will be effective during low-light conditions (early morning and late evening), while jigs will perform well as the sun rises.

Perch

Activity Levels: Expect school formations, particularly after precipitation; they will feed frequently as temperatures remain moderate.
Preferred Locations: Schools will likely congregate around weeds and rocky structures—focus on drop-offs.
Behavioral Insights: Perch will tend to avoid deeper, murkier areas right after rain initially but will become active shortly thereafter.

Actionable Hotspot & Technique Advice

Location Recommendations:
Trout: Head to the Marina area and the Pine View side early in the day.
Bass: Look for wind-blown shores on the western side.
Perch: Target the deeper edges of the weed beds and submerged structures in mid-lake.
Technique Suggestions:
Trout: Use spinners early in the day. As it warms, switch to jigging with scented baits near structures.
Bass: Topwater popper or buzzbaits at dawn; transition to Texas-rigged worms as the day heats up.
Perch: Fish with slide bobbers and small jigs near weed beds.
Lure Recommendations:
Trout: Rooster Tail spinners (1/8 oz).
Bass: Green pumpkin-colored worms for jigging.
Perch: Small minnows or tube baits.

Optimal Fishing Windows

Activity Peaks:
Morning (6-9 AM): Great for trout and bass.
Late Afternoon (4-7 PM): Preferential time for perch as they rally to feed before nightfall.
Weather Impact: Cloud cover and wind will improve fishing efficiency; target overcast conditions for topwater applications.

Lure Pattern Suggestions

Sequential Lure Strategy:
Start with a topwater bait early to catch surface feeders.
If action is low, switch to subsurface lures such as crankbaits.
In deeper waters, rely on jigs or live bait for trout.
Adaptation Tips: If topwater action slows, consider moving to deeper water and using weighted swim baits near the bottom.

Water Temperature Insights

Strategies Based on Current Water Temperature (66°F):

Trout: More active during cooler early hours. Best to fish in shallower depths where they hide.
Bass: Look for aggressive feeding behavior in shady spots. Best to use slow presentations with lures.
Perch: More active in schools. Targeting moderate depths will yield the best results.

Technique Modifications:

With rising temperatures, focus on deeper waters mid-day, exploring structures rather than staying near the surface.

Local Regulations and Guidelines

Fishing Seasons:
Trout and bass are open year-round.
Size and Catch Limits:
Trout: 2 fish daily, 12-inch minimum.
Bass: 5 fish daily.
Licensing Requirements:
Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local shops.

Access Points and Facilities

Boat Launch Locations:
Flaming Gorge Resort Ramp and Buckboard Marina.
Shore Access Points:
Numerous statewide access points; parking available.
Amenities:
Several picnic areas and restrooms near popular launch sites and recreational areas.

Safety Reminders

Be aware of changing weather conditions—always dress in layers.
Wear life jackets while on the water.
Be cautious of slippery rocky surfaces along shorelines.

Wishing you an enjoyable and successful fishing excursion at Flaming Gorge! For the latest conditions, remember to check our daily updated fishing reports. Happy fishing!

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