The reservoir is usually ice-free by early March. Rainbow trout begin patrolling the shorelines looking for food and a place to spawn as soon as the ice comes off and can provide great fishing throughout the spring. Most popular baits, lures, jigs, and flies can produce good fishing. Wipers also start to get active and typically seek out the warmest water in the shallows. For wipers, use lures and flies that imitate shiners and crayfish. As the spring progresses into May and June, trout feed actively on the surface during early mornings and late evenings, while moving into deeper water during the day. Smallmouth bass will also get more active in later spring, while wipers become more nocturnal. Catfish are doing really well, anglers have reported catching some as big as 3 pounds. Black crappie were introduced in 2024-2025, and are starting to establish a strong population. Notice: Illegally introduced largemouth bass and bluegill have recently been confirmed in Newcastle Reservoir. Remember, introducing fish into Utah's waters is illegal.