Last update: 11/12/2024

Current fishing conditions for Starvation Reservoir in Utah.

• Fishing is typically strong through November, but a bit slow. Rainbow trout is (good). Smallmouth Bass (slow), Walleye (slow), all other species (slow).
• There is currently an abundant population of walleye in Starvation reservoir—and an overabundance of smaller walleye.
• The average length of walleye is growing, but state biologists are providing guidance to harvest a daily limit of 10 walleye 12-14 inches.
• Yellow perch populations are on the rebound, but still lower than previous years.
• There are strong rainbow trout populations this year with reports of catches up to 27 inches. You’ll find rainbows along the shorelines, inlets, and rocky points.
• Current water level is at 82% and rising.
• State parks are requesting that all crappie be released to help rebuild populations.

General Fishing Guidance and Tips

General fishing guidance and tips for fishing Starvation Reservoir throughout the year.

Spring

Walleye don’t become active until water warms to between 40 and 45 degrees, which typically doesn’t occur until late March or early April.

One of the best spots to target walleye during early spring is the shallow flats near the inlets and mouths of streams. Target the flats that drop off into deeper water.

Once winter ice melts, walleye will move from the deep and congregate on the flats near stream mouths where there is warmer water that attract chubs, crayfish, and other prey.

During prespawn in March and early April walleye are feeding aggressively. This one of the best—and easiest—times of year to catch walleye and hit your daily limit.

A great spot to hit for rainbow trout and perch during late spring early summer is Rabbit Gulch. Anchor in about 20 feet of water and cast in your powerbait or jig.

If you’re after perch, simple fish a worm jigged off the bottom and you’ll real them in all day.

May is when the smallmouth bass bite really begins to pick up.

Fall

Fall is one of the best times of the year for walleye fishing on Starvation Reservoir. Walleye are active, hungry and aggressive. Rainbows are a little bit more difficult to catch during the fall.

During early fall cooler water comes to the surface and with it a lot of fish move closer to the shallows and shore to feed. Fish will feed aggressively through November.

Most walleye are caught on crankbaits, jigs, trolling spinner rigs, and nightcrawlers rigs. Crankbaits that mimic chubs are your best option, but chartreuse and silver colored Shad Raps and Rapalas also work well.

Walleye tend to feed more aggressively during the early morning and towards night. These are the most likely times to land larger walleye catches.

The walls running southwest to northeast located directly across from the state boat, as well as the bridge on the north side, have historically provide larger walleye catches. Along the walls target the spots that taper off to about 20 to 30 feet with a 1/8-1/4 ounce jig head.

Fish the upper end of Rabbit Gulch between September and October in about 15 to 20 feet of water to target all species.

Rabbit Gulch, Salertus Wash, and the small gulch right next to the bridge on the south end are great spots to target brown trout with a slow troll using a worm harness behind a walking sinker.

Utah fishing reports: Strawberry Reservoir, Provo River, Green River, Weber River, Panguitch Lake, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Jordanelle Reservoir, Lake Powell Reservoir