The Green River in Utah stands as one of America’s premier fly fishing destinations. With its crystal-clear waters flowing from the base of Flaming Gorge Dam, this river offers anglers an experience that has earned its place in “50 Places To Fly Fish Before You Die” and countless other publications.
The 27-mile stretch running from Wyoming through Utah along the north slope of the Uinta Mountains provides year-round fishing opportunities with water temperatures between 40-60 degrees. This supports a thriving population of large trout in gin-clear water.
When you visit the Green River, you’ll find it divided into three distinct sections (A, B, and C), each offering unique fishing experiences.
The river’s prolific hatches create perfect conditions for fly-fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Daily flow rates can fluctuate significantly between 940cfs and 1,910cfs, so checking current conditions before your trip is essential for both success and safety while wade fishing.
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Key Takeaways
- The Green River below Flaming Gorge Dam offers world-class fly fishing with clear water and abundant large trout year-round.
- You should prepare for varying water flows and check current conditions before planning your fishing adventure on Sections A, B, or C.
- Hiring a local Green River fly fishing guide can significantly enhance your experience through local knowledge and instruction.
Exploring the Green River in Utah
The Green River in Utah offers some of the most spectacular fly fishing opportunities in the United States. Its crystal-clear waters and abundant trout population make it a paradise for anglers of all skill levels.
Geographical Overview
The Green River flows from Wyoming through Utah along the north slope of the Uinta Mountains. The most popular fishing stretch covers about 27 miles and is divided into three main sections: A, B, and C.
Section A runs from Flaming Gorge Dam to Little Hole, featuring deep pools and riffles with easy access points. This section has the highest concentration of fish per mile.
Section B extends from Little Hole to Indian Crossing, offering more challenging terrain but fewer crowds. You’ll find stunning red rock canyons and peaceful fishing spots.
Section C continues downstream to the Colorado border, providing a more remote wilderness experience. This section is less fished but still holds plenty of trophy-sized trout.
Best Times for Fly Fishing on the Green River
The Green River offers excellent fishing year-round, but certain periods stand out for specific experiences.
Spring (April-June) brings prolific hatches, especially the famous cicada hatch that happens every few years.
Summer months provide consistent dry fly action with caddis and mayfly hatches. Water temperatures remain cool thanks to the dam release, keeping fish active even on hot days.
Fall (September-October) offers gorgeous scenery with changing colors and aggressive pre-winter feeding from trout. This season often has fewer crowds but still excellent catch rates.
Winter fishing can be surprisingly productive with midges and small blue-winged olive hatches. The water clarity improves dramatically during winter, making sight fishing possible on sunny days.
Remember that river flows can vary based on dam releases, so checking current conditions before your trip is essential.
Fly Fishing Techniques for Green River
The Green River in Utah offers incredible fly fishing opportunities that require specific techniques to maximize your success.
Knowing the right fly patterns, understanding how water moves through this unique river, and choosing the best approach between wading or floating can dramatically improve your catch rate.
Essential Fly Patterns
When fishing the Green River, having the right flies in your box makes all the difference.
For dry fly action, pack Parachute Adams in sizes 18-22 to imitate the famous Blue-Winged Olive hatches that occur year-round. These tiny flies are Green River staples!
Scuds in olive, orange, and pink (sizes 16-18) are must-haves as they mimic the abundant freshwater shrimp in the river. Many trout feed heavily on these critters throughout the year.
Streamers, nymphs, and dry-dropper rigs all have their place on the Green.
Zebra midges, Copper Johns, and San Juan Worms should fill your fly box for nymphing. For streamer fishing, try Woolly Buggers in olive and black to entice the larger brown trout.
Don’t forget to bring some PMD patterns for the summer months and midge patterns for winter fishing. Each section of the river may require different fly selections.
Reading the River Currents
The Green River’s clear water makes reading currents easier, but you’ll need to adjust techniques for each river section.
In A section, look for seams behind rocks and along drop-offs where trout hold to conserve energy while feeding. Pay special attention to bubble lines – these surface foam paths indicate current seams where food collects. Position yourself to drift your flies naturally along these feeding lanes for the best results.
Water levels change based on dam releases, so check the flow reports before your trip. Higher flows push fish toward shorelines and into Eddie pockets, while lower flows concentrate them in deeper runs and pools.
Be patient and observe the water before casting. Look for rising fish, feeding lanes, and structures that create slower water where trout rest. The river has many subtle current changes that hold fish.
Wading vs. Floating
The Green River offers both excellent wading and floating opportunities, each with distinct advantages.
The river is divided into three sections (A, B, and C), ranging from 7 to 13 miles each, providing different fishing experiences.
Wading works well in A section near the dam where paths provide good bank access. Wear sturdy wading boots with excellent traction as the rocky bottom can be slippery. Felt or rubber soles with studs are recommended for better stability.
Floating with a professional guide gives you access to more water and hard-to-reach spots. Drift boats allow you to cover all three river sections and reach the less-pressured fish. This approach works especially well during higher water levels.
If you’re new to the area, consider combining approaches – float with a guide first to learn the river, then return to wade your favorite spots. Many anglers find this strategy helps them understand where fish hold throughout the different sections.
Conservation and Etiquette
Preserving the Green River’s pristine ecosystem and following proper fishing ethics ensures this legendary fishery remains vibrant for generations to come. Your actions on the water directly impact this delicate environment.
Catch and Release Practices
When fishing the Green River in Utah, proper catch and release techniques are essential. Always wet your hands before handling fish to protect their slime coat, which shields them from disease.
Use barbless hooks to minimize damage. These hooks make releasing fish much easier and reduce handling time. The less time a fish spends out of water, the better its chances of survival. Keep fish in the water whenever possible.
If you need a photo, prepare your camera first, then quickly lift the fish just above the surface. Hold fish horizontally, supporting their weight properly to avoid damaging internal organs.
Revive tired fish thoroughly before release by gently holding them facing upstream until they swim away on their own. This extra care contributes to conservation efforts that keep the Green River’s trout population healthy.
Protecting Local Habitats
Staying on established paths when approaching the river is essential. The delicate riparian zone along the Green River serves as a critical habitat for numerous species and prevents erosion.
Pack out all trash – even tiny items like fishing line scraps or cigarette butts can harm wildlife. Many Green River fishing guides promote a “leave it better than you found it” approach, encouraging anglers to collect any litter they encounter. Respect fishing regulations about artificial flies and lures only.
These rules exist to protect the fishery and ensure its sustainability. Always have a valid Utah fishing license before casting your line.
Wade carefully to avoid disrupting spawning beds. These underwater nests are vital for trout reproduction. Step lightly on river bottoms and avoid dragging your feet, which can destroy these crucial habitats.
Conclusion
Fly fishing the Green River in Utah offers an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant trout population, it’s no wonder this river is included in 50 Places To Fly Fish Before You Die.
You’ll find comfortable lodging options ranging from cabins to campgrounds, making your stay both enjoyable and convenient. Local dining spots provide delicious meals after a long day on the water.
Remember to follow fishing regulations: only artificial flies and lures are permitted. Catch-and-release is also encouraged to preserve this amazing fishery for future generations.
The most popular 27-mile stretch winds through stunning landscapes from Wyoming into Utah along the Uinta Mountains. This provides numerous access points and fishing opportunities.
Whether you’re pursuing trophy-sized trout or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery, the Green River delivers a world-class fly fishing adventure that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
