Utah · Fishing
Fishing in Kamas, Utah
Kamas sits at the western edge of the Uinta Mountains, which puts it within reach of one of the densest concentrations of high-country lakes in the Lower 48.
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Kamas sits at the western edge of the Uinta Mountains, which puts it within reach of one of the densest concentrations of high-country lakes in the Lower 48. The 114 fishing spots catalogued around Kamas lean heavily toward lake fishing, and that tracks with the terrain: the Uintas are dotted with alpine lakes ranging from roadside reservoirs like Stateline Reservoir and Moslander Reservoir to backcountry destinations like Kermsuh Lake, Hell Hole Lake, and the Painter Lakes that require a real hike to reach. Shingle Creek (Lower) and Burnt Fork round out the options for anglers who prefer moving water. Most of the high-elevation lakes sit in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and are accessible via the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway (Highway 150), which typically opens in late May or early June depending on snowpack. Water temperatures in these lakes stay cold well into summer, which keeps fish active longer into the morning than you might expect at lower elevations. If you are driving up from the Salt Lake Valley, Kamas is the last town with a full gas station and grocery store before the byway climbs, so stock up before you head east.
Frequently asked questions
What types of fishing are available near Kamas?
The overwhelming majority of options are lake fishing, including both drive-up reservoirs like Stateline Reservoir and Grahams Reservoir and hike-in alpine lakes like Spider Lake, Island Lake, and Becky Lake. River fishing is also available on Shingle Creek (Lower) and Burnt Fork for anglers who prefer current.
When does the fishing season around Kamas typically open?
Utah has no closed season on most of these waters, but access is the real constraint. The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway usually opens to vehicle traffic in late May or early June, and many trailheads remain snowbound until then. Ice-out on the higher lakes can lag a few weeks behind road opening, so early June conditions vary a lot year to year.
Do I need a Utah fishing license?
Yes, a valid Utah fishing license is required for anyone 12 and older. Licenses are available online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources or at sporting goods retailers. Check the current Utah Fishing Guidebook for any specific rules tied to individual waters before you go, as slot limits and gear restrictions can differ by location.
What is the best time of day to fish these lakes?
Early morning is consistently productive on the alpine lakes around Kamas. The cold water temperatures keep fish feeding later into the morning than at lower-elevation reservoirs, so you often have a longer productive window. Evening can also be good, especially on calmer days when surface activity picks up.
How difficult is it to reach spots like Hell Hole Lake or Kermsuh Lake?
Difficulty varies considerably across the 114 listings. Reservoirs like Moslander Reservoir and Stateline Reservoir are accessible by vehicle or short walk, while lakes like Hell Hole Lake and Kermsuh Lake sit deeper in the backcountry and require several miles of hiking on trail. Check trail conditions and elevation gain for your specific destination before heading out, and be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms common in the Uintas from July onward.
