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| Strawberry Reservoir Cutthroat |
Winter is here and that means it's time for Ice Fishing. Many anglers overlook the ice fishing season but hard water fishing offers some unique opportunities. If you have ever had a difficult time holding your boat steady while jigging over a stack of fish or had to retreat early from afternoon winds then you need to try ice fishing. There are three major advantages to fishing through the ice. First is location. You don't need a boat to get to your favorite spot. Second is lure placement. You don't have to fight wind or chop, you can jig perfectly vertical and use the most sensitive of tackle. The third advantage is being stealthy. You don't have to worry about the putter of a trolling motor, you can hold absolutely still making no noise at all. Some of my largest catches have been through the ice and some of my best numbers have been through the ice as well. Don't sit at home this winter.
Upcoming Events
I love this time of year. It seams as though there are tournaments and fishing events every weekend. It doesn't matter what flavor you prefer there is something that will interest you. I entered my first Ice Fishing Derby last year just to try it out and I immediately fell in love. If you have never entered one, just sign up. You'll be happy you did. Take your pick from the following list. Click the links for more information.
- Wasatch Back Quad-Fishalon - This trout only Ice Fishing Derby takes place over the course of 4 separate Saturdays from January 31st through February 21st. Reservoirs consist of East Canyon, Deer Creek, Rockport and Jordanelle. Each event offers gift cards for the first 3 places and the largest 3 entries (only one from each reservoir) are combined to determine the first 3 places in the overall tournament including an ice fishing package from Cabelas said to be worth $2,500. The entry fee is $55 and includes a raffle ticket for each event giving you a chance to win a number of cool prizes. (Also See Back Quad Post)
- Basin Ice Fishing Bowl - This tournament is similar to the Quad-Fishalon except it takes place over two consecutive weekends and starts at Steinaker State Park and concludes at Starvation State Park. Each is a separate event offering gift cards for the top 3 places which are determined by the combined length of three possible species. The combined lengths from both events are added to determine the top 3 places in the overall event. If you feel that you are a well rounded angler able to target Largemouth, Bluegill, Yellow Perch, Walleye and Trout through the ice, then this might be the challenge for you. Adult entry fees are $35 and kids are $15.
- Deer Creek Ice Fishing Derby - This is a new tournament hosted by an up-n-coming fishing guide. The tournament takes place on Deer Creek Reservoir on January 24th. The entry fee is $50 and the grand prize is a whopping $1,000. Other prizes will be raffled off on the day of the tournament.
- Burbot Bash - This is a 3 day team-style burbot tournament taking place on the 23rd, 24th and 25th at Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The tournament was established with one objective in mind, removing burbot from the reservoir. The tournament has gained steam over the years and attracts quite a turn out. The entry fee is $40 per adult and $10 per kid. Cash prizes are awarded to the top 3 in each category. Most fish and largest fish for the adults and most fish and smallest fish for the kids. Tagged fish can be worth $10,000. Support the Flaming Gorge fishery and do your part to reduce burbot numbers while having a fantastic time.
- Bear Lake Cisco Disco - This event is a seasonal fishing event for the Bear Lake Cisco which is only found in Bear Lake. Dip netting is the preferred method and is fun for the whole family. The days events continue with the Monster Polar Plunge and a chili cook-off.
- Fish Lake Perch Tournament - This tournament is at Fish Lake on January 24th. There are prizes given for men, women and kids in several categories. This is the first year I have heard about this tournament I am excited to see how it turns out.
There are several fisheries that could offer a spectacular fishing experience this winter but in an effort to narrow down the options I have created a shortlist based on several hard to quantify factors. My choices for the top 5 fishing prospects are as follows:
- Currant Creek Reservoir - This reservoir is relatively small and often overlooked by those who frequent Strawberry Reservoir. A healthy population of Cutthroat and Tiger Trout crews this reservoir which can offer fast fishing in a beautiful high mountain setting. Crowds are rarely a problem at this unique change-of-pace type destination.
- Strawberry Reservoir - This well known fishery lives up to its reputation. You will likely catch several slot sized Cutthroat Trout, many of them pushing 20 inches. It is not uncommon to hook a Rainbow of the same size range. Being close to civilization you will likely have plenty of company but no worries, there is plenty for everyone.
- Scofield Reservoir - This reservoir gets a lot of unfair reviews by those who don't understand what is has to offer. The reservoir has a substantial population of Utah Chub which can overrun your presentations depending on how and where you fish. These chub, though troublesome, have become food for 5-10 lb cuthroat and even larger tigers including a 19lb state record caught last winter through the ice. With a 4-5 inch dead chub minnow and a fair amount of determination and you will not be disappointed.
- Birch Creek Reservoir - This reservoir is a bit out of the way but it offers both heavy cutthroat and tiger trout with fairly light angling pressure. The combination is an obvious recipe for success. Fishing is not often fast but quality is often the reward here.
- Causey Reservoir - This reservoir made the list because of its beautiful steep pined mountain environment as well as the variety of fishing opportunities that it has to offer. There is no better place in the state to catch Kokanee Salmon through ice. In shallow depths you will catch cutthroat, tiger trout and rainbows. Move into deeper water and bring in a splake or two.
Ice fishing is a perfect opportunity to introduce young kids or beginners to fishing. The secret to having a great family outing is preparation. Don't try something new and expect to have a great family fishing experience. Choose a location that you are familiar with and make sure you are prepared for the worst. A tent, heater and lots of snacks can make all the difference. If you don't have a tent, no problem, just make sure the days temperature is going to be fair and that the sun will be out. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen. The most important part is how you treat your family during their trip. Do not get agitated or frustrated. They are the guests of honor. Give your children the attention they have been longing for and for crying out loud, hand the pole off when you hook a fish. You will have plenty of opportunities to catch fish with the guys.
Safety
Have fun and stay safe during the winter fishing season. Remember that no trophy or prize is worth your life. All ice should be considered unsafe and caution should always be used. Dress in layers of wool and polyester which retains at least some portion of its insulating properties when wet. Most importantly always use the buddy system, minor accidents often become life threatening when you are alone.
Featured Fishery
This seasons featured fishery is Strawberry Reservoir. Click on the link to read all about fishing at this blue ribbon fishery.
Featured Species
This seasons featured species is Tiger Trout. Click on the link to read more about where to catch these veracious feeders and how to fool them into striking.
Featured Article
Follow the link to learn more about ice fishing including best practices and techniques, and the equipment that you will need to get started.
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