As of September 24, 2024, the fishing scene in and around Salt Lake City, Utah, is looking promising, despite the transitioning weather.
### Current Weather Conditions
Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 55 degrees. The wind will be moderate, blowing at about 10 miles per hour, with no significant precipitation forecasted.
### Water Conditions
For the local lakes and reservoirs, water temperatures are cooling down, ranging from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Water levels are generally lower than usual due to the late summer season, but clarity remains good, especially in the morning and evening hours.
### Best Fishing Spots
- **Utah Lake**: This lake is a hotspot for white bass and catfish. Look for white bass in the early morning and evening, using crankbaits and white spinnerbaits. Catfish are active in baited holes with cut bait and drifting cut shad on the main lake flats.
- **Jordanelle Reservoir**: Here, you can target trout, particularly in the deeper, faster oxygenated waters around rocks, log jams, and foam lines. Tiny Pseudo mayflies (#22-#24) and midges (#20-#24) are highly effective, along with terrestrials like ants, beetles, and grasshoppers during the warmer parts of the day.
- **Provo River**: The Provo River is excellent for fly-fishing, with Pale Morning Dun mayflies and caddis still active. Focus on the late morning through the afternoon, using PMD dries and nymphs (#18-#20) and caddis dries and nymphs (#16-#18).
### Bait and Tackle Recommendations
- For white bass, use crankbaits and white spinnerbaits.
- For catfish, cut bait and drifting cut shad are effective.
- For trout in Jordanelle Reservoir, tiny Pseudo mayflies and midges are crucial. Also, consider using terrestrials and streamers.
- On the Provo River, PMD dries and nymphs, along with caddis patterns, will attract trout.
### Fish Activity
- **White Bass**: Active in the early morning and evening, often found in schools.
- **Catfish**: Most active late afternoon into the night.
- **Trout**: Look for them in deeper, oxygenated waters during the day and shallower waters in the mornings and evenings as the weather cools.
### Local Events and Regulations
- There are no major local fishing events today, but be aware of catch limits and any specific regulations for the waters you plan to fish. For example, some areas may have catch-and-release only rules for certain species.
### Tips from Local Anglers
- According to local guides, the best times for fishing today are early morning and late evening when the sun is not intense, and the fish are more active.
- Cloudy days can extend the feeding windows of fish, so take advantage of any cloud cover to fish longer.
- For fly-fishing, using a 7.5' to 9' leader with a 2X tippet is recommended for streamers and big dry flies.
With these tips and conditions in mind, today promises to be a great day for fishing in the Salt Lake City area. Make sure to check the latest fish stocking information and any updates on water conditions before you head out. Happy fishing