Green River

Location and description:

Located 42 miles north of Vernal, Utah, on Highway 191, the internationally recognized Green River is probably Utah's best-known fishery. This large river, 800 to 4,500 cfs, begins at the base of Flaming Gorge Dam, elevation 5,594 feet, and winds for 28.8 miles until it crosses the Utah/Colorado border.

The river is naturally split into three reaches: The seven-mile upper reach, Tailrace (the Dam) and Little Hole, has paved roads to both boat ramps/walking access points. The nine-mile middle reach, Little Hole to Indian crossing in Browns Park, has access via a good dirt road as does the final reach, Indian Crossing to Swallow Canyon (Utah/Colorado border).

Game fish species and methods:

This world-renowned fishery supports high densities of large, healthy rainbows, browns and Snake River cutthroat trout. An artificial flies and lures only regulation, with a catch-and-release slot of 13- to 20-inch fish, protects the fishery from over harvest. The lesser-known mountain whitefish, a relative of the trout, also reaches trophy size in the Green. Excellent fishing is available from both the shore and boats.

Angler tip: imitate the natural foods. Match the hatches when midges, mayflies, and caddis flies emerge. Try grasshoppers and cicadas during the summer and shrimp/scud imitations are year-round favorites. Rapalas, spoons, jigs and other lures should imitate minnows and larger aquatic insects.

Access and facilities:

Modern lodging, food and other conveniences are available in Dutch John, Red Canyon and Manila, while developed and primitive camp sites provided by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management serve those interested in a more "wild, outdoor" experience.