The Logan River, nestled in northern Utah's Cache Valley, is a renowned blue-ribbon trout stream offering approximately 30 miles of accessible, high-quality fishing waters. Flowing through the picturesque Logan Canyon, the river provides diverse fishing experiences suitable for both beginners and seasoned anglers. Its clear waters and abundant trout populations make it a year-round destination for fly fishing enthusiasts.
The Logan River can be divided into distinct sections, each offering unique fishing opportunities:
- **Lower Section**: From the mouth of Logan Canyon to the Third Dam, this area is known for its brown and rainbow trout populations.
- **Middle Section**: Extending from the Third Dam to Card Canyon Bridge, anglers will find a mix of brown and cutthroat trout.
- **Upper Section**: From Card Canyon Bridge upstream to the Idaho state line, the river is primarily inhabited by cutthroat and brook trout.
The Logan River boasts a diverse trout population, including:
- **Brown Trout**: Predominantly found in the lower sections.
- **Rainbow Trout**: Common in the lower river and impoundments.
- **Cutthroat Trout**: Especially the native Bonneville cutthroat, prevalent in the upper reaches.
- **Brook Trout**: Located in the higher elevations and tributaries.
Trout in the Logan River exhibit varied behaviors and diets throughout the year:
- **Spring**: Increased feeding activity as trout recover from winter, with a focus on emerging insects.
- **Summer**: Active surface feeding during hatches of caddisflies and mayflies.
- **Fall**: Brown trout spawn, becoming more aggressive; other species feed heavily in preparation for winter.
- **Winter**: Reduced activity; trout feed sporadically on midges and other small insects.
Effective fly fishing techniques on the Logan River include:
- **Dry Fly Fishing**: Particularly successful during summer hatches of caddisflies and mayflies.
- **Nymphing**: Productive year-round, especially with patterns like pheasant tail and caddis larvae imitations.
- **Streamer Fishing**: Effective for targeting larger brown trout, especially in the fall.
Notable fishing locations along the Logan River include:
- **First Dam**: Easily accessible and stocked with rainbow trout, ideal for beginners.
- **Second Dam**: Known for larger fish and more challenging conditions.
- **Right Hand Fork**: A tributary offering a serene environment with healthy trout populations.
The Logan River is accessible via US Highway 89, with numerous pullouts and campgrounds providing entry points. Popular access points include:
- **Spring Hollow Campground**: Offers river access and camping facilities.
- **Guinavah-Malibu Campground**: Provides access to productive fishing stretches.
- **Tony Grove Area**: Access to upper river sections and tributaries.
For a successful outing on the Logan River, consider the following gear:
- **Rod**: A 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod is versatile for most conditions.
- **Reel**: Matched to the rod with a reliable drag system.
- **Line**: Weight-forward floating line suitable for various techniques.
- **Flies**: A selection including caddis, mayfly, and stonefly patterns, as well as nymphs and streamers.
Anglers are encouraged to practice catch and release to preserve the native trout populations, especially the Bonneville cutthroat. Adhering to local regulations and minimizing environmental impact ensures the river's health for future generations.
Safety is paramount when fishing the Logan River:
- **Wading**: Use a wading staff and wear appropriate footwear to navigate slippery rocks.
- **Weather**: Be prepared for sudden weather changes; carry rain gear and dress in layers.
- **Wildlife**: Be aware of local wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
While specific fly shops in Logan are not listed, nearby Heber City offers:
- **Fish Heads Fly Shop**: Provides gear, guided trips, and local fishing information.
Organizations dedicated to the preservation of native trout species in the Logan River include:
- **Western Native Trout Initiative**: Focuses on the conservation of native trout species across the western United States.