Fishing
Jordanelle Reservoir is known for bass: Utah State Parks says the north arm, reached from the Ross Creek trailhead, is known for its bass fishing, and Utah DWR's record book lists a 23½-inch catch-and-release smallmouth bass caught here in 2003. The Utah DWR 2026 guidebook sets a special limit of 6 bass at Jordanelle; other species follow the statewide rules. You'll need a Utah fishing license. Fish from shore at Ross Creek, Rock Cliff or Hailstone, or rent a fishing boat at the Hailstone Marina, and ice fish in winter once the reservoir freezes.
Fishing at a Glance
Where to Fish
- Ross Creek (north arm): the trailhead gives shore anglers access to the north arm, which the park calls known for bass. It's non-motorized access, so walk in or paddle (Ross Creek).
- Hailstone: the main boat ramps and the marina, with fishing boat rentals and a fish cleaning station just west of the main ramp (Hailstone).
- Rock Cliff: the Provo River end of the reservoir, with its own fish cleaning station (Rock Cliff).
Fishing from the docks is not allowed anywhere in the park, and boats and swimmers must stay outside the no-trespassing buoys near the dam.
Rules and Limits
Utah's Division of Wildlife Resources, not the park, sets the fishing rules. Its 2026 Fishing Guidebook lists one special rule for Jordanelle Reservoir in Wasatch County: a limit of 6 bass. Everything else falls under the statewide limits and rules in the guidebook, which also explains licenses and bait restrictions. Check the current guidebook before every season, since rules can change from year to year.
Fishing Boats, Tackle and Bait
Jordanelle Rentals and Marina rents fishing boats at Hailstone, and the pro shop beside the marina sells fishing tackle and bait (Boat Rentals). If you bring your own boat, plan for the mandatory quagga mussel self-inspection before launching (Boating & Marina).
Ice Fishing
Once the reservoir freezes, Jordanelle becomes an ice fishing spot. The park keeps its day-use roads plowed all winter. Off-highway vehicles aren't allowed in the park, with one exception: anglers may ride OHVs from the boat ramps onto the ice, and the brochure adds that snowmobiles are allowed on the ice. The fish cleaning stations shut down for the winter. Ice is never guaranteed safe; check conditions with the park office (435-649-9540) before you walk out (Plan Your Visit).
Current Conditions
There's no official fishing report on the park site, but Utah State Parks posts the reservoir's water temperature, water level and algae status on the park page and its current conditions page. Look there before you go, along with Utah DWR's site for license and rule updates.
Fishing FAQ
What fish are in Jordanelle Reservoir?
Utah State Parks highlights bass, especially on the north arm, and Utah DWR's record book includes a 23½-inch smallmouth bass from Jordanelle. Utah DWR's guidebook covers the other species and statewide limits.
What is the bass limit at Jordanelle?
Utah DWR's 2026 Fishing Guidebook sets a limit of 6 bass at Jordanelle Reservoir. Other species follow statewide limits.
Where is the best fishing at Jordanelle?
Utah State Parks says the north arm, reached from the Ross Creek trailhead, is known for its bass fishing. Hailstone has the boat ramps and fishing boat rentals.
Can you ice fish at Jordanelle?
Yes. Anglers ice fish once the reservoir freezes, and OHVs may be ridden from the ramps onto the ice for ice fishing. Check ice conditions with the park first.
Do you need a fishing license at Jordanelle?
Yes. Fishing at Jordanelle follows Utah Division of Wildlife Resources rules, including its license requirements.