Fishing in Box Elder
Fishing in Box Elder
Bass, Walleye, Wiper and Big River Catfish
Fishing in Box Elder County is as varied as its landscape. Cast for bluegill and bass from the shore of a mountain reservoir, chase walleye and wiper on a big freshwater bay, or soak bait for river catfish after dark. Most of the best water is within minutes of Brigham City.
Quick Facts
Required
Utah fishing license
Family Favorite
Mantua Reservoir
Big Water
Willard Bay
River Fishing
Bear River
Top Catches
Bass, bluegill, walleye, wiper, catfish
Where to Fish
Just up Box Elder Canyon, Mantua Reservoir is an easy, family-friendly lake with a gravel dike that circles the shoreline. South of Brigham City, Willard Bay State Park is a big freshwater reservoir known for walleye and wiper.
For something different, fish the lower Bear River for channel catfish, or head to the remote spring-fed ponds at Locomotive Springs on the north end of the Great Salt Lake.
Mantua Reservoir
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has named Mantua Reservoir one of the state's best scenic spots for warmwater fishing. Bluegill and largemouth bass move into the shallows in late spring, and the reservoir also holds yellow perch and rainbow trout. The gravel dike around the lake makes shore fishing easy, and winter brings ice fishing.
Willard Bay
The 9,900-acre reservoir at Willard Bay State Park is best known for walleye and wiper, along with channel catfish and black crappie. Fish from shore near the marinas, or head out by boat for the best shot at a big wiper.
Bear River
From Corinne to the Great Salt Lake, the lower Bear River is known for channel catfish that can grow very large. Most of the riverbank is private, so fish at public access points, such as bridge crossings, and in designated areas of the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.
Locomotive Springs
At the north end of the Great Salt Lake, Locomotive Springs Wildlife Management Area is an isolated, spring-fed wetland managed by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. It's a quiet, out-of-the-way spot for anglers and birders alike. Water levels have dropped in recent years, so check current conditions before making the long drive.
Fishing by Season
Spring
(April–June)
Bluegill and largemouth bass move into Mantua's shallows to spawn. Shore fishing can be fast and fun.
Summer
(June–August)
Wipers chase baitfish at Willard Bay. Fish early or late, or try the Bear River for catfish.
Fall
(September–October)
Cooler water brings trout back into Mantua's shallows. Expect quieter days and fewer crowds on the water.
Winter
(November–March)
Mantua freezes over for ice fishing. Catch perch and trout once the ice is safe to walk on.
Before You Go
GET YOUR LICENSE
Anyone 12 and older needs a Utah fishing license. Buy one online from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
KNOW THE RULES
Limits and special regulations vary by water. Check the Utah Fishing Guidebook before you go.
CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY
Utah requires boats to be cleaned, drained and dried to prevent the spread of invasive species.
RESPECT PRIVATE LAND
Much of the Bear River runs through private property. Fish only where public access is allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Bring your rod, pick a spot and spend the day on the water. Brigham City is close by for supplies, a good meal and a place to stay.