Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offers a variety of locations to hunt & fish. Creating opportunities for families and friends to share in the outdoors.
Lake and Pond Fishing
Within the forest's streams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, anglers can catch sport fish including Bonneville and Colorado River cutthroat trout, brown trout, brook trout, golden rainbow trout, and grayling. Warm water fish include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, tiger muskie, catfish, bluegill, crappie and others.
The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is proud to be active in the conservation efforts of the cutthroat trout within the states of Utah and Wyoming.
A state fishing license is required when fishing on the national forest. Visit the appropriate website for details:
- Utah Division of Wildlife Resources: Fishing in Utah Additional information: Fish Utah interactive map.
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department: Fishing in Wyoming
Do your part to prevent the spread of WHIRLING DISEASE by cleaning mud from waders and equipment. DO NOT TRANSPORT any parts of the fish caught here to other waters.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a great way to enjoy the winter months in Utah and Wyoming. Many lakes and reservoirs on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offer ice fishing opportunities. Make sure to be mindful of ice thickness and always plan ahead. Fishing permits are required, and information can be found at Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
River and Stream Fishing
There are many opportunities across the Forest to enjoy the pleasures of river and stream fishing. Please be aware of the specific rules and regulations on the waters' you fish. See this year's current fishing proclamation for more information on restrictions.
As you fish and enjoy the wildlife on the Forest, we ask you to help us keep it enjoyable by packing out all the materials you bring on the forest. We hope you have a great day fishing and enjoy the forest. Good Luck!
Hunting
Hunting has been practiced for generations on Forest Service land. However, it's more than a traditional pastime. Hunting also has an ecological benefit as it's one of many ways in which wildlife managers are able to keep wildlife populations in balance with the animal's habitat, human development and the natality and mortality of the animals.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources manages hunting within the state. For information on seasons, licenses and other details, check their website or call their local hotline at 801-596-8660 or toll-free hotline at 1-877-592-5169.
Hunting Safety Tips
National forests are a refuge for wild animals of all kinds, which makes recreational activities, for example hunting and wildlife viewing possible. Hunting is a seasonal activity. State regulations for seasons, dates and licensing apply on national forest land.
- Check weather reports before visiting the forest.
- Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return.
- Be familiar with the area you want to hunt.
- Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible weather conditions and changing weather.
- If accompanied by a dog, the dog should wear hunter orange or a very visible color on a vest, leash, coat or bandana.
- Utilize layering techniques to wick away moisture while retaining body warmth. Always bring rain gear.
- Clearly identify your target before shooting. Prevent unfortunate accidents or fatalities.
- Be alert when hunting near developed areas and trails. Other recreationists are in the forest as well.
- If hunting in bear country, follow these tips at the Be Bear Aware website.
Archery
Archery is permitted on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Always check with the Forest or Ranger District before you head out in order to verify archery is permitted in the area. Remember, shooting firearms or archery equipment in not allowed in the campgrounds or developed recreation sites on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.
Recreational and Target Shooting
Target shooting is allowed in areas of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. For recommended areas and additional information contact the local Ranger Districts. Discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of an occupied area, across a trail, road, body of water, or in any unsafe place or manner. Wilderness areas are not appropriate places for target practice.
Leave the area better than you found it, pack out your brass/shells/targets.
Exploding targets are prohibited. >>For more information on prohibited targets.
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Abes Lake
Adax
Amethyst Lake
Anderson Cove Campground
Aspen Grove Campground
Balsam Campground
Bear Canyon Campground
Bear River Campground
Beaver Creek
Beaver View Campground